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chanting, inviting sound that happily searched out the darkened comers and instantly filled the room. "Come, come, Captain, don't tell me you were expecting the old snaggle-toothed stereotype from children's books." |
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Frazier's face was folded in a foolish openmouthed grin. "I guess I'd better confess I was," he admitted. |
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The Caron woman's assessment was coolly dispassionate. He had the feeling that her intense gray-green eyes could see through him, into his mind and perhaps even into his very soul. Finally, she turned gracefully and led him into the parlor. |
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In every sense of the word, it was a world of mind-boggling dimension. It had been heavily draped to shut out the accompanying chill of storms such as the one that raged outside even now. It was, for Charlie, like entering another world. The furniture was exquisiterichly carved mahoganies, accentuated with beaded and brocaded cushions and pillows, as well as velvets and silks and fabrics he couldn't identify. She had drawn him into a world of brooding yet compelling colors. At the far side of the room was a massive, rough stone fireplace. In it, a crackling fire charmed the darkness. |
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"Well, Captain," she invited, "won't you have a seat?" |
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