A figment of his imagination

They spent the rest of the meal at the table in an uncomfortable silence.

Every attempt to restart the conversation was just another futile effort.

Maxixe could care less about what this stranger thought of him.

He was more concerned about the thoughts of the young woman who sat facing opposite him at the dining table.

Based on the time he spent with Lady Kaoma, he wondered why she remained silent.

When the time they spent alone she didn't not hesitate to speak her mind.

Now that both of them were amongst others he did not want that side of her to retreat.

He wanted her to stay strong as his wife, to continue to be determined, strong minded.

He loved that she was a great deal more intelligent than the women that tended to simper around him.

Others might think her difficult and stubborn but he found her fascinating. 

Lady Kaoma was without comparison.