Our talk seemed to unlock her heart and she burst into tears and I learned how much of a child she is. For it is still filial jealousy that makes her difficult. She cannot bear to share me with my girls, my friends, even my work.
Poor, darling Kleis, how hard it is for some of us to grow up, to learn to walk gracefully alone. I kissed and comforted her as best I could, assuring her of my love.
“There’s a place for you here, Kleis. Please try to find it. I know the girls are eager to help you, if you’ll let them.”
She promised, but the far-away look remained in her eyes.
A thiase in Andros—the thought saddens me, for then she would be far away.
P
I have hurled myself into work. During long silences, while I am thinking, composing, I hear the water clock outside my door. Drop after drop, it fastens itself to my memory.
The wind has continued for days on end, the sun hazy, the surf magnificent in its wildness, all craft beached, no gulls anywhere, a sense of abandonment throughout our town, people scurrying to get indoors.
Only in the garden is there shelter, near the fountain. An angle of the house shuts off the strongest blasts.
I have ordered everyone to work. At least they appear busy.