"W-when?"
"The day we return."
"Can you leave your work?"
"Yes. Halloran knows."
"And—you will go?"
"Yes, if you wish it."
Another silence. Then she shook her head, not looking at him.
"There is no use in going—now."
"Why?"
"Because—because I do not wish it." Her eyes fell lower; she drew a long, unsteady breath. "And because it is too late," she said. "You should have gone before I ever knew you—if I was to be spared my peace of mind."