Ruth moved on one side without answering. Storms could see that a shudder passed through her as he came near, and the evil light that had almost died out of his eyes when they fell upon her came back with fresh venom.
"So you think to escape, ha! You shy on one side, as if a wild beast blocked the path. Be careful that you don't make one of me."
"Let me pass. I wish nothing but that," faltered the girl, moving as far from her tormentor as the path would permit.
"Not till we have come to an understanding. Look you, Ruth Jessup, if you think to pull me on and off like an old glove, I am not the man for your money."
"I—I have no such thought. I have no wish to see you at all."
"Indeed!" sneered the young man.
"After what has passed it is better that we should be strangers!"
"Nay, sweetheart. I think it is better that we should be man and wife."
A disgustful shudder shook the girl where she stood.
Storms saw it, and a cold smile crept over his face.