"I know. I feel dreadful about missing our date." But not really. "My meeting changed locations and went longer than expected, and I couldn't send word. At the end of our meeting, my client noticed my distress and asked me what was wrong. I explained, and she informed me as to whom you were. I'm embarrassed to say I had no idea. Fortunately, she attended your last...soirée"—his eyes heat up with cruelty and lust—"and could relay where you lived, and so here I am. I didn't want you thinking..." My eyes prickle, and I swallow hard.