“One of the reasons Lucien started the Phoenix Club and why I agreed to support the endeavor was that he wanted to help people. He would offer anything to someone in need.”

“Why? He doesn’t know me.”

“Because he’s the kindest person I know. I assure you, he has no ulterior motive.”

“I look forward to getting to know him. Do I get to flirt with you now?”

Evie laughed, causing Ash to startle. He lifted his head and yawned. “Sorry to wake you, sweet lad.” She stroked his head until he settled back down.

Contemplating how to begin, she wondered if he even needed her help when he had her hanging on his every word and wishing he would chance to touch her again. “You have me thinking about the art of flirtation and how everyone responds to it. What works for some won’t work for others. But I suppose that’s what makes it an art and is how people find their match—you’re either drawn to that person and their manner or not. Perhaps this is a futile exercise. You should just be yourself, and doing so will attract the best partner for you.”

“You’ve a thoughtful, intelligent mind, Mrs. Renshaw. Just the same, I think I’d like you to teach me the basics of general flirting. I understand it may be what you would respond to. I am more than content with that.” His gaze met hers, and she realized she was responding to just him looking at her. Rather, it was the way in which he was doing so, as if he wanted to touch her as much as she desired him to.

She desperately needed to cool this heat surging between them, but if she were to teach him to flirt, she ought to flirt with him. “A demonstration is in order, I think,” she said demurely, holding his gaze as her lips curved into a provocative smile. “This is one way to flirt.”

He swallowed and didn’t look away. “How is that?”

“Eye contact.” She glanced toward the road. “Though in this particular setting, you may wish to look at where you are driving, at least periodically.”

He muttered something indistinguishable under his breath and jerked his head forward. “My apologies,” he said in a louder tone.

“It’s quite all right. We are having a lesson. You can see how exchanging looks can be stirring. There are different ways of using your eyes to convey interest and to flirt.”

Glancing her way, his eyes held a fervent sheen. “What ways are those?”

“If you look at a lady many times throughout an evening—or whatever the occasion is—that will signal you are interested. Lingering looks are another way.”

“Is that what you just did?” he asked.

“Yes, along with applying intensity.”

He nodded. “It seemed urgent that I continue to look into your eyes.”