The conclusion had Porthos break into a surprised, approving grin. Of course she would know swordplay; he was beginning to wonder whether Mademoiselle Phryne had any flaws at all, the more they talked.

"If you'd like a sparring partner," he offered without a second's thought. He was always happy to be doing something, after all, and she was great company, as far as he was concerned.

It didn't hurt that she looked the way she did, or looked at him the way she did.