"I cannot bear it." The words were sharp with pain.
"You wanted me to go through with it."
She covered her face and he felt a shudder pass over her.
"Yes. But that was then," she whispered.
At the words, he drew her to her feet and into his arms.
"Marcia, beloved! Oh, my dear one, do I need to tell you I love you—love you with all my heart—my soul—all that is in me? You know it—know that every moment we have been together has been heaven. Tell me you love me, dear—for you do love me. Don't deny it—not tonight—our last night together. Say that you love me."
"You—know," she faltered, her arms creeping about his neck.
He kissed her then—her hair, her eyes, her neck, her lips—long, burning kisses that left her quivering beneath the rush of them.
Their passion brought her to herself and she drew away.