" Do you think they are---er---fond of one another?" I asked, conscious of a strange little pang.
"What gossips women are," Stefano said irritably. "Of course they are fond of one another. They have been friends since infancy."
"That isn't what I meant."
"I know." Stefano opened his eyes and stared at me. "Are you jealous, Cousin? I suppose that like all the females who pass through Andrea's life you fancy yourself in love with him."
"If I were, I certainly would not confess it to you," I replied angrily.
"Very wise of you," said Stefano, and closed his eyes again. "

― Barbara Michaels , Wings of the Falcon