I do not pretend to understand how gears and levers can bring forth consciousness, sir, but it certainly appears that somehow they have. - David D. Levine

You are a most vexing young woman, you know." But his face bore a slight, whimsical smile.
"I know," she replied, feeling her own mouth curve into a matching expression.
He blew out a breath. "As your brother, I could forbid you to go. But you and I both know that, even if I did so, you would do whatever you wish regardless. I suppose I have no choice but to accede to your request.

The man could be frightfully keen...except when he was utterly obtuse.

Wordlessly she gestured downward, to the hidden lower limbs which seemed to hold some unearthly power over men’s minds.