“But love is what I need,” said Roberts quietly.
“That element is fugitive.”
“And still I need it.”
“The whole world does,” insisted Martin.
“But I, especially.”
“It’s too difficult, Roberts.”
“Nothing is difficult,” he replied. His voice was sorrowful. “Martin! Break this date with Mrs. Idara.”
“It has more than precedence, Roberts.”
“I demand it.”
“Then,” said Martin, a feeling of exhaustion coming over him, “I’m afraid there’s no alternative. I turn down here.”