The stranger stepped back, still supporting my weight with large hands beneath my backside, then slowly lowered me to the floor. I wobbled in my heels, gripping his arm for support before stepping away. The enormity of what I had just done – again – sent my mind reeling. I began shivering, only partly from the cold, then jumped as something warm and heavy was draped over my shoulders. I glanced up briefly at the now jacket-less stranger but was unable to utter any words of thanks. He helped hold it for me as I pulled the dress coat slowly over my arms. While not a cold weather jacket, it remained warm from his body and cut the worst of the chill which helped immensely.

“Let me take you home.”

The moment I heard the words I shook my head, stepping away from him. My body burned with shame and I couldn't bear to look at him. “I need to catch the train,” I mumbled.

A finger came under my chin and tilted my head up until I was looking into that handsome face. His face was impassive but I could see concern in his beautiful green eyes. “Please,” he said softly.

My body still responded to his touch; I wanted to lay my cheek against the rough skin of his hand. Tears pricked my eyes at the silly sentiment – was I really so desperate? – and I stepped back again, pulling from his grip. Clearing my throat and forcing myself not to act like a simpering twit, I looked him in the eye. “I need to catch the train.” Keeping my head high even as shame made me want to crawl away and hide, I started walking away then faltered. “Your jacket,” I murmured and started to shrug out of it.

He held up a hand to stop me. “Keep it.” A bemused smile flickered across his lips and it seemed for a moment I had his full attention…and approval. “You need it more than I do right now.”