Page 81 (1/2)

"He didn't mention it," I muttered to myself

"He didn't even ask It was as if he knew that love was

soreeen two people Those

who clai and heard

bells ringing every time they kissed were people

living in a fairy tale, putting themselves into romance

novels and films In the end when reality set in, they were the es were ones like the one I was about to consent to: ait a firht First, we had to respect each other and succeed together Then, ould look into each other's eyes and say, "Yes, yes, there's another strong bond there, an eh to hold two independent people together securely Now it's proper and right to say, 'I love you,' and have it mean

so"

I climbed the stairs and went to Mother's room

She was dozing Her nurse looked up at me "I'll stay with her awhile," I said

"Very good" She rose "I'll just go down to

have so at Mother She

shook her head, her eyes dark "Call me if you need

I sat by the bed and studied Mother's small,

burdened breaths that made her chest look heavy Her