“I think you hurt yourself too,” she suggested quietly.
The muscles in Antony’s throat contracted.
“Come here,” said the Duchessa.
Antony crossed to the hearth. He stood looking down at her.
“Kneel down,” said the Duchessa.
Obediently he knelt.
“You are so blind,” said the Duchessa pathetically, “that you need to look very close to see things clearly. Look right into my eyes. Can’t you see something there that will heal that hurt?”
A great sob broke from Antony’s throat.
“Ah, don’t, dear heart, don’t,” cried the Duchessa, drawing his head against her breast.