Melissa

“Nice prong," said Sophronia after a moment.

Felix grinned and waggled his eyebrows lasciviously. "Thank you for saying so."

Sophronia was instantly suspicious. "You mean that isn't a ballistic exploding steam missile fire prong?"
"No such thing, my dear Ria, but it certainly sounds wicked, doesn't it?"
"Then what is it?"

He handed the evil-looking object over. "Ah, a portable boot-blackening apparatus with pressure-controlled particulate emissions, and attached accoutrement to achieve the highest possible shine. For the stylish gentleman on the go.”
― Gail Carriger, Curtsies & Conspiracies

“Here, I stole it for you. Why don’t you tell me what it’s for.”

“Aw, Sophronia, how thoughtful. You brought me a present!”
― Gail Carriger, Curtsies & Conspiracies

“Unless Sophronia missed her guess, the poor lad was already developing romantic feelings toward her friend. Many of the sooties probably were. Dimity was so pretty and chattery, she quite overpowered the average male. Many gentlemen were unable to cope with abundant chatter, which is why they so often married it.”
― Gail Carriger, Curtsies & Conspiracies

“Many gentleman were unable to cope with abundant chatter, which is why they so often married it.”
― Gail Carriger, Curtsies & Conspiracies