"May I ask your name?" he queried politely. "It's none of my business, I understand," he added with a hint of intrigue. "For now, let's call you Delicia. Would you allow me to assist you with your shoe?" She blushed and felt a surge of indignation. "No, absolutely not!" she managed to stammer, her voice quivering. "Just drive, please!" she insisted. "Oh, quite simple," he reassured her, bending down swiftly. Before she could react, he gently lifted her into his arms, carrying her towards his waiting carriage with ease. Miss Tellaro was愕然; she ought to have screamed or fainted, but shock held her silent. Caught off guard by his gentle yet firm grip, she regained her composure and, once her surprise wore off, she forcefully slapped him across the face, pouring all her indignation into the action. He winced slightly, but his grip didn't loosen; instead, it tightened marginally, displaying a surprising resilience.
