A new eagerness flitted over Alexis’ face. “If I thought there was a chance of that!”
“She would have to be forced into it, of course. She is as obstinate about her religion as she is weak about you.”
“I don’t intend to force her! I’m sorry I came. When I received your letter I thought you would have something tangible to suggest. Something beside these brutalities.”
“I offer you freedom and you call me names!” The tiny mouth pursed with rage. “But wait a moment, I’m afraid you can’t go now. They’re back from the movies. Isn’t that the elevator?”
The blood receded from Alexis’s face. Yes, surely that was Claire’s voice approaching the door. Would to God he had never come!
A key clicked in the lock and Claire stood upon the threshold. Behind her Dr. Elliott turned white as he saw Alexis. Placing a mechanical arm about Claire, he piloted her in. She fell into a chair beside the door.
“Alexis!” Tears streamed from her eyes. Her voice was feeble.
He sprang forward with a cry of pity and bent over her. “I’m sorry I frightened you, Claire.”
“I’m so silly,” she murmured. “Only last night I dreamed that you had returned again!”
“Poor child!” His face contracted in a spasm of pain.