Taking her by the wrist, he impulsively led her to the sofa and seated her by his side.
“This state of things cannot go on,” he said harshly. “We are losing each other. I must explain. I will tell you about that woman, the one you know of.”
Irene started away from him, as though the word were a lash.
“Is she between us? I don’t want to hear a breath of her. I won’t listen. What is she to me? Let us continue in the old way.”
“We have come to the end of it,” said Hugh.
“Do you love her?” she asked, fiercely.
“I have every reason to hate and despise her,” said Hugh between his teeth. “You know very well that I love you with every fibre of my being.”
Irene held him with her eyes. The few seconds seemed an incalculable time.
“And you know that I love you with all my heart and soul. So why will you not take me?” she said slowly.
He sprang to his feet.