Shirley flushed. She seemed amused and serious, in turn. Finally she looked up at him quizzically for a moment, then asked:—
"Do you really want to know?"
He did not answer the question, but ventured:—
"Is it because of Thorne? Is he my successful rival?"
Shirley looked perturbed. She was struggling for expression.
"No, it's not because of Thorne. I wish it were ..." And after a moment: "Do you still want to know?"
"Yes. I've got to know, Shirley." And he waited for her words as though his life hinged upon them.
"Will you be very quiet and stay right where you are if I tell you?"
"I promise," raising his right hand half playfully.
"Well, then, it's because—I love you," she said easily.