i lack much more than innocence

He was no fool to the presence of others on the beach, as he was no fool not to notice the approach of the dame. Choosing to feign ignorance, he would not turn to face her, waiting until she would draw closer to him before he would speak. The white brute would sit there, muscles coiled as he stared out across the bay. The salty air met his nose with a tang, clouding the scent of the approaching stranger, though he could deduce that he had not met her. No the sweet scent that she left in the air was new to him. That would make the day far more entertaining. He listened carefully, though worked to keep it to seem his attention was focused on the water. When she drew close enough for his liking, he would speak, his voice leaving him softly, but cold, calculating.

"It's not wise to sneak up on a stranger, belle."
Belle. He always had to address others as such. God, please don't be ugly. He'd think before causally turning his head to inspect the new arrival.