They sat by the fire, Flip and Paul, huddled there all afternoon, scarcely saying a word, listening to the wind rise. Fortunately Georges Laurens was absorbed in his work and their silence did not penetrate his concentration any more than their conversation would have.
"If he'd just leave the picture for me," Paul said.
"He won't. He'll be there. He wants to make sure he gets you." Flip hugged Ariel for comfort.
After dinner they went upstairs and sat on Paul's bed.
"I'll go in five minutes," Paul said, staring unhappily down at the floor.
"Paul—" Flip started.
"What?"
"I want to give you something to take with you for good luck."
"I need good luck," Paul said.
"Well, in the old days a knight always carried the handkerchief of his lady. Would you like to carry my handkerchief?"