After the tea-dance and dinner, Hugh left her to dress for the Dramatic Society musical comedy that was to be performed that evening. He returned to Norry Parker's room and prepared to put on his Tuxedo.
"You look as if somebody had left you a million dollars," Norry said to Hugh. "I don't think I ever saw anybody look so happy. You—you shine."
Hugh laughed. "I am happy, Norry, happy as hell. I'm so happy I ache. Oh, God, Cynthia's wonderful. I'm crazy about her, Norry—plumb crazy."
Norry had known Cynthia for years, and despite his ingenuousness, he had noticed some of her characteristics.
"I never expected you to fall in love with Cynthia, Hugh," he said in his gentle way. "I'm awfully surprised."
Hugh was humming a strain from "Say it with Music" while he undressed. He pulled off his trousers and then turned to Norry, who was sitting on the bed. "What did you say? You said something, didn't you?"
Norry smiled. For some quite inexplicable reason, he suddenly felt older than Hugh.
"Yes, I said something. I said that I never expected you to fall in love with Cynthia."
Hugh paused in taking off his socks. "Why not?" he demanded. "She's wonderful."
"You're so different."