“For how much?”
“For nothing. I’ll pick up that island and put it in your arms.”
On the way over he told her about the fight, which had lasted several hours. Some hunter had taken advantage of the doctor’s absence to get a deer out of season, and had accidentally set fire to the woods in the process.
She seated the injured man on the porch and went into the house for things she needed. It took her some time because she had to make a fire. When she came out, he was still sitting with his eyes closed.
“Your Duckling must be a charming thing to look at when the smoke does not hide it.”
“Yes.”
“There’s a lump in your throat, little Miss Rich. Do you love that island for its beauty?”
“Yes.”
“Then you must not part with it.”
He felt a soft warm sponge begin to smooth his arm. He felt it go into his armpit. It stole over his chest, down to his waist around to the other arm. A soft towel followed, till his whole front was dry and clean. Then she began on his back, very softly.