"Only one kiss," he urged. "You gave it willingly last night, darling."
"But things are not the same as they were last night."
"No, I love you better, Dexie. May I?" But without waiting for permission he kissed the face so near him, and found it wet with tears.
"Dexie, darling, I did not think you would care so much. Forgive me if I vexed you; you kissed me last night without a word."
"But you are not the same, and there was a reason last night. It is not fair, Lancy. You have quite spoiled our good times for the future."
"No, not spoiled them, only made them dearer. Dexie, you shan't be vexed with me. Come over on the sofa and let me talk to you."
"No; you said you would let me go home, and I want to go now, this very minute."
"Very well." He rose and pulled her shawl over her shoulders, then followed her silently into the shelter of her own door. He would have followed her into the house as well, forgetting that Dexie's face would tell tales, but she stopped him at the door.
"I don't want to see you any more to-night, Lancy; I really don't," she said, as they stood a moment in the front hall.
"You are displeased with me for telling you that I love you. Perhaps I should have waited a little longer before speaking about it; but, Dexie, I couldn't keep it to myself. I had to tell you."