The man could’ve been a simpering, trembling idiot and Amber would've still been sweetness itself, thanking him oh so much and commenting on how kind he was to help her out. Being excessively polite for a few feet was a small price for staying dry.

But he turned to her and Amber watched as his expression shifted from annoyance to interest. Was it because of her? She smiled without even meaning to, warmed by his reaction. It helped that he was handsome, with bright eyes and smooth skin.

He spoke with confidence, like a man who had cultivated dignity and was proud of his accomplishments. Nice. Amber was a firm believer in self-respect. If someone didn't bother to like themselves, why should she? She looked at his extended hand and wondered if he'd maintain that confidence in his shake. You could tell a lot about a person from their handshake, more than from their clothes or their expression.

She switched the peony to her left hand. "Amber Volakis," she said, wrapping her hand around his firmly.