“I wonder how Ellen discovered us, then? Is Rosenfield bribeable?”
“Of course not! Perhaps Karzimova’s press agent gave it away. Any way, let’s forget it. I’m sure they would never dare to come out again. You’re too valuable a friend for Ellen to risk when her blood is cooled off!”
His sudden astuteness amused her.
“Perhaps you are right.”
He pursued his advantage hastily. “We could be so happy, if you would only let us. If you don’t love me I simply don’t want to go on living. I was literally in hell when you discovered me, I am your creature. Even my music came back only because of you. And now you want to destroy me!”
The little, wry smile once more curved her lips. She laid her hand upon the rumpled head lying so close to her breast. “You demand a great deal, my Alexis,” she murmured.
He raised his head and met her quizzical eyes proudly. “I demand only what I supposed you were willing to give! If you don’t want to stay I shall not keep you against your will. I suppose I can go back to the devil again after all. I ought to know the way!” he finished with boyish fury and despair.
Anne capitulated, with amusement and despair. Taking his hand in hers, she pressed it softly. Her eyes were maternal.
“What a baby you are, Alexis.”
“You are going to stay!” He sat down upon the bed and fell upon her with ravenous kisses. His arms closed about her.