Her nearness, the scent of her person, the black-opal mystery and fire were like hypnotic enchantment.
"Because you used to—to care for me a little, Vio? Is it possible that—that I can think that?"
She nodded.
"That's part of it, of course. I don't forget it. But what I remember more is what I've told you already, that, whatever you did, I sent you to do it. Now, if there's expiation to be made, I come in for that as well as you."
"So that we make it together?"
"So that we make it together."
Having already been bold I grew bolder. Lifting my hands to my shoulders I laid them on hers.
"And will you—will you let me kiss you on that, Vio?"
"Once," she consented; "but—but don't—don't touch me."
PART III