In "Naked in Death" by J.D. Robb, Roarke reflects on a small yet significant object: a gray fabric button he picked up from his limo. This button, which had come from the jacket of a suit worn by a woman he first encountered, carries memories and emotions for him. As he examines the button, he grapples with feelings of foolishness, aware that he has no desire to return it to her. It's a bittersweet token that symbolizes a connection between them.

Roarke's contemplation shows the depth of his feelings and hints at a complex relationship with this woman. The button serves as a reminder of their first meeting, evoking a mix of nostalgia and longing. In this moment of solitude, he acknowledges the weight of the past and the intrigue of their bond, suggesting that the objects we keep can hold profound emotional significance.