"Aren't you sweet," Phryne purred, delighted with him, even if she had no interest in acting on it. For the first time since she'd run into Jack and River, Phryne felt almost herself. It wouldn't last, but for the moment, she would enjoy it. "Don't worry about a thing, darling."

She gave him a knowing smile when under different circumstances, she might have pouted and sought a compliment as an apology. Truthfully, only one man's opinion really mattered. So she immediately put him out of his misery. "A number of people have been similarly affected, beginning early this morning. Doubtless it's something to do with the holiday."