Startled, all impulses, she caught his hand. His fingers tightened about hers.
“What?” she asked, breathless.
“I'll go.”
“Not away from T'ainan?”
“Yes. It's the only thing. After all, it doesn't matter much what happens to any individual. We've got to take that chance. When my—when I'm—free, if I'm alive, and you're alive. I'll write you. I won't come—I'll write. Meanwhile, you can make up your mind. All I'll ask of you then is a decision. I'll accept it.”
Her fingers were twisting around his. She couldn't look up at him, nor he down at her.
“When shall you leave T'ainan?”
“Now—this afternoon.”
“No.”
“But... don't you see?..