CHAPTER I

The magazine was there, along with the morning paper on the
floor in front of the store. When Lorna leaned over to catch them,
the mailman has left a few envelopes and politely waved through
the window.
Instinctively, she closed the collar of his robe. There was
something in that man that made her remember fake Dougan and
shuddered at the thought of it. There used to think of his past, had
trained for it, but he was there, bringing its contribution to the
person she was today. Always be there ... Fortunately, had
reached a stage where it could put the past, all of it, behind. He
greeted the postman back and took the envelope from the floor.
Normally, only going down after being fully dressed and made-up,
so that your image reflects precisely what it was: the owner of
Felina, the most elegant boutique Windsor. Well, at least this was
his opinion.
It is true that the shop was small, but had only clothes carefully
selected, tasteful and of good quality. In just under a year, Felina
had achieved a great clientele. Lorna offered impeccable service,
honest and competent advice, always looking for her clients
satisfied. So they did not bother to pay dearly for what they
bought.
However, she would not lose time in looking at the shop as it
usually did. This morning would be proud with the victory of Cathy
instead of yours. He pressed the magazine against his chest and
went upstairs to the apartment back on the boutique, thinking that,
like her, her half sister had worked hard to achieve something and
deserved the success that was beginning to have. Despite being
just nineteen, Cathy had a very hard life, both had had a very

hard life. The need to overcome the instinct of survival were as

strong as in Cathy herself.
I knew I should not worry about Cathy. But worried. Perhaps out
of habit. When cared for her younger sister and always worry.
Always protected him, with all his might.
Lorna smiled remembering her sister, opened the magazine and
found the pages I was looking for. There she was among other
models, with evening dresses for autumn-winter fashion. On the
next page, occupying all of it, Cathy showed a cocktail dress, her
blonde hair lifted to the top of the head, the beautiful face
reflected pure happiness. She looked beautiful, untouched by life.
Sitting in a chair near the gas heater, Lorna helped himself to tea
and continued to look at the photos. They had been taken several
weeks for this special issue of autumn, and Cathy had been very
busy with that contract. The photographer responsible for the
work was Van der Buren. Lorna read the magazine.
So Cathy was able to be photographed for a major fashion
magazine, she thought, closing your copy. over time, no doubt, it
would cover. Certainly had a talent for it.
People often commented as the two were similar, but Lorna did
not agree with that. She was very high, but Cathy was higher still,
it was lean, but Cathy was much thinner, and, as Cathy had long
blond hair, hers was short. Both had inherited the beautiful green
eyes of his mother.
But there was really one thing in common between her and her
sister, according to Lorna: irresistibly attracted both men. But
Cathy is delighted with it, as she thought it only brought him
trouble. As to their attitudes toward men, the two sisters could not
be more different.
Once you wear a dark green fine wool, which was expensive even

at cost, Lorna is examined in the mirror. She wore a beautiful

scarf that completed its elegance. There were days when she felt
too depressed, not wanting to dress up and paint, but reacted as
it had to be always impeccable. In a way, was an advertisement
for his own store. Needed to maintain an image. Fortunately, I
could relax on Sundays, when the feline was closed.
- Oh, today is a bit cold! - Dulcie, his assistant, said when he
arrived at five to ten, as usual. Had a cold shiver when he entered
the store and was heated directly to the bottom put a kettle on the
fire for coffee. - Let's hope the cold does not scare the remnants
of the tourists!
- Let's hope that - Lorna agreed, smiling. I was taking note of his
stock of pantyhose. He sold two of the more expensive brands of
socks, which were usually bought on impulse. Things like socks,
tights, scarves and belts gave little profit for the store, but at the
same time occupying little space. Moreover, Lorna learned from
experience that sometimes a small accessory could help sell an
expensive machine.
He shut the notebook and went to the door turn the poster of
"Open". Then went to talk to Dulcie.
- How was your weekend? " - Asked.
They were on a Thursday, but as Dulcie only worked on
Thursdays and Fridays, they had not seen for almost a week.
Lorna had other assistants on Saturday, was a student and also
worked for another second, third and fourth. Of the three, she
preferred Dulcie, a woman of almost forty years and that helped
because not need the money, but because I wanted to fill their
time.
- Great - Dulcie said, smiling. - We went out for dinner on
Saturday and had a house full of visitors on Sunday. And you?

Lorna smiled, not bothering to answer, because the other knew

she had spent her weekend as always. On Saturday nights, gave
every stock in the store and put the days in the books, and on
Sundays it was decided to leave just to go to a restaurant nearby
and maybe take a walk. Occasionally going to a concert or a
theater in London, or right there in Windsor.
Lorna loved to Windsor, a city so full of personality and history,
and during the season so full of tourists who came from all over
the world. Since he'd been living there a year ago, had seen all
there was to see and know almost everything you should know
about the place. Some locals did not like the flock of tourists, but
for Lorna, they meant sales, and sales meant profits.
- I know that this store is everything for you - Dulcie said carefully
- but seems to have a personal life, Lorna. I think ...
The sound of the bell on the door outside the store did Dulcie up
immediately and Lorna left to meet the client. Dulcie was
competent and a good salesperson, and very delicate touch.
While taking his coffee, Lorna made an effort to dispel the slight
irritation that the last words of Dulcie had caused it. Did you know
that the other found it a little mysterious. In general all had that
opinion. Nobody, except Cathy, to understand, no one, unless she
knew what motivated them, what provoked her, what frightened or
pleased.
But that was exactly what Lorna wanted things to be. He had the
habit of talking about herself and even less about his family and
his past. He knew that his assistant was thinking, what she was
going to say, and it was true. For a girl of twenty-five years, led a
quiet life too. His world revolved around your business. She was a
kind person. Treat their workers and her clients. But he saw no
reason or need to talk about herself. Why tell others what he had

struggled to escape poverty? What reason would have to reveal

that he had sworn to herself that she never, never, it would be
abused again?
In fact, it took a quiet life too, was by your choice. For almost a
year for the first time in his life, knew what was to have peace. For
the first time he was happy!
When the bell rang again, Lorna away those thoughts and rose
quickly. He entered the store and found Eve Summers, happy as
a cat after a bowl of milk.
- Good day! You seem very happy!
- Lorna nice day! - Eve laughed as a teenager. - I have news.
Pulling and news! - He gave a look to the side of Dulcie and then
turned to Lorna - You can go for a coffee? I will take only fifteen
minutes of your time.
- Of course - she agreed immediately. Neither thought of telling
Eve that just coffee. Eve was a great client, who bought many
clothes for the whole year. He was twenty-nine years and spent
much, because I wanted to be always well dressed. When he
went to London to renew their stock, Lorna picked some dresses
thinking specifically Eve knew very well the taste of it and had
given up trying to influence it. The truth is that Eve wore
constantly things that did not match its type, but refused to accept
the advice.
The two got along wonderfully well and occasionally have lunch
together. Eve was a lawyer expansive, educated and obviously
from a wealthy family. The offices where she worked were in Park
Street, near the Feline and Eve who had treated the legal
procedures when Lorna opened her shop. And since then, had
turned in their best customer.
- Do I put my coat? - Lorna asked, curious to hear the news and

knowing that he would be something important to make Eve put

out of the office.
- Put, yes - Eve suggested. - I think winter has arrived.
- Do not say such a thing! We're still in October, in the fall.
- Autumn, October, whatever. The truth is out there is an ice. - Eve
smiled so happy that Lorna had to smile along.
The two went out and walked hurriedly to the bar of the Castle
Hotel, where they ordered two coffees for the waitress. Across the
street could see the Windsor Castle, ancient, stately and bright,
overlooking the town. For he was more accustomed to that view,
Lorna never failed to marvel at it, but at that moment his attention
was all on Eve
- I'm waiting - she said, impatient and happy.
- Yet guessed? - Caused Eve
- You gave me no clue. - I could not even imagine what would
have happened to make Eve so happy, so radiant.
- Julian asked me to marry! - The words came at once and then
repeated the Eve, waiting for the reaction of Lorna.
Taken by surprise, she had to make a great effort to give the
expected response. He smiled and congratulated, but could not
stop asking questions.
- But ... but you always told me that he was not interested in
marriage! His career ... always said that his career ...
- I love my profession - Eve has vigorously. But I love Julian.
Furthermore, I have both, I can not?
- I think so. But is that ...
- I know, I know. - Eve raised her hand. - When I value my
freedom. I am happy in my work, I love my house, but after a
while that I miss something in my life. You are alone, Lorna. The
only family she has is her sister, right? I never felt something

missing in your life?

- No - Lorna replied, laconically.
- A man, for example?
- No. - Closely Lorna smiled. Answered very calmly, maintaining
control over himself to Eve, unaware that a man was the last thing
he sought in life.
- As soon as Julian was working at the firm - Eve told - I knew
what was missing in my life. I suspect that I began to love him so I
saw him. To be honest, I must confess that three months ago that
he ask me to marry him.
Eve and Julian were coming together in the last six months.
Shortly before that, he entered as a partner in the law firm. Lorna
had met him several times, when Eve accompanied to the store,
and much sympathized with Julian.
- Then it will be a family of lawyers, no? - Said, grinning. - Where
to live? Julian's apartment or in your home?
- In none of the two. Let's buy something bigger. Not far away, of
course.
- And he's glad you continue to work?
- I have not had time to ask him that - Eve confessed, putting a
lock of hair behind her ear. Her hair was smooth and brown, and
did not care a damn with them. Fell loose to her shoulders and
she took them off the road when they were disturbing.
- I had a great time, I have almost thirty years, I am ready to settle
down now.
- I suppose so. - Lorna would not comment on anything else. After
all, it was not your account, and if Eve was happy, so I was happy
for her. There was only surprise at the news.
He motioned for the waitress to ask for the account as soon as
Eve glanced at his watch.

- I can not take - said Eve - I have a client scheduled for eleven
and you promised not to hold long.
- Wait a minute! I have not yet said when it will be the big day.
- We do not choose, Julian spoke to me only yesterday, you
know? We'll have to talk to both families before we decide.
- I tell them?
- Yes, at least that we have done. And we decided to formalize
their engagement on my birthday.
- Oh! - Lorna was surprised again. Was finding it very formal. An
engagement is not official, after a party to celebrate the official,
then the need to combine with the families the wedding date ...
- Is it a birthday party plus another engagement Eve continued. You left the reservation date, no?
- Of course. - Two weeks ago, Eve said he would give a birthday
party in December and invited. She accepted, but did not even
remember what was the precise date. - It's the twenty ... fear not
remember well.
- Twenty-nine - completed Eve - Well between Christmas and
New Year. But things have changed. I will not give the party at my
house, now give the house of my parents. Or rather, they give
back in Hampshire, where they live. I hope it's not too out of hand
for you. And still to come. Spend the night with us, of course.
- Of course I will! And I will be happy to spend the night there, if
they have a room for me.
- We have lots of rooms. - Eve stood. - The party will be bigger
than I had planned. - He put his hand on the arm of Lorna as they
left the hotel bar. - Lorna, what will you do at Christmas? Julian
and I are going to stay with my parents at Christmas until the New
Year. I would like to spend these days with us? It would be so
good ...

Lorna was pleased by the invitation, but had to refuse.

- That's very kind to me and I am grateful. But I will spend
Christmas with my sister, Cathy. When that date passed together.
- Bring with you Cathy! - Eve suggested, buttoning his coat to
keep out the cold. - My parents love to receive guests. Will be
delighted.
Lorna chose not to accept. I could not believe that two strangers
were welcome in someone's house during Christmas, they were
more hospitable hosts. Moreover, Cathy saw less and less and
those holidays, year-end would be a great opportunity to talk.
Said goodbye to Eve once again thanking the invitation and
ensuring that this would be for the engagement party.
Feeling good about life, walked back to the store. Life was good,
now, was really good. Never doubted that he would win, had
resolved that when he was young. It had been a hard walk, mainly
because of its origins, but she managed. And the reward was
great. Now not only had his own business, but also a small and
cozy apartment in one of the most beautiful regions of England.
Lived with educated people, as Dulcie and Eve, the people who
fully accept that it was. Nothing made her give up being a winner.
Even Jake Dougan, despite the things he had forced her to
face ...
- Do not tell me he was embarrassed by yourself? - Asked when
he entered the store and saw Dulcie surrounded by almost the
entire stock of meshes. - Or were you looking for the right size,
the right color in the style right?
- More or less! - Dulcie said, very pleased with himself as he bent
the mesh and put back in plastic bags and then the shelves. - But
worth it. I just sell eight! Que tal?
- Wonderful! His customer was someone with knitting craze of

Scotland?
- They were two foreign ladies. Greek, I think. Did not speak a
word of English, but knew exactly what they wanted. I thought
they were buying gifts to take home.
- How was that paid? - Lorna asked, worried.
- Cash, do not worry.
- All care is low, Dulcie. I learned this from experience.
The week continued pleasantly. Appeared some customers did
not buy anything, but Lorna did not care. Just before lunchtime,
the representative of a garment factory came and she made some
orders. Then he invited her to lunch, but Lorna refused. I wanted
to keep separate business and pleasure.
- He does not give up, no? - Dulcie commented, after the boy left.
- It's no wonder his persistence, really.
- Some people can not accept a non - Lorna found, knowing that
Dulcie had noticed how Paul was fascinated by it. Anyone could
see it.
- It's not your type, I guess. - Dulcie Lorna liked but did not
understand. And wondered what kind of man to be interested.
Despite the curiosity, did not insist on the question. Lorna had the
right to keep their privacy.
Dulcie went to buy sandwiches parais two and no sooner had
closed the door, the phone rang. Lorna went to meet without
imagining that inner peace would be destroyed with that call.
- It's Cathy! - The voice of his sister was tense. - Go shopping
today? You come to London?
Lorna's hand clasped over the phone.
- Well .. not ... I went shopping yesterday. Something happened,
Cathy?
There was a long silence and then the muffled sound of sobbing

Cathy. She cried so much that he could not speak and Lorna was
desperate.
- What is Cathy? Cathy? Conte, please! -: But Cathy did not say
anything, just cried. It was the normal procedure of it, Cathy was
crying so hard! - Cathy, listen. I'll just stop there. Stay where you
are, I will come as soon as possible.
- No! - Cathy was able to speak some words but Lorna had
already shut down. She ran upstairs to fetch the car keys, put on
her coat and then waited impatiently for the return of Dulcie.
While waiting tried to calm down, but I was scared, worried. Was
so rare Cathy cry ...
- Dulcie, I need to go to London - spoke calmly, as soon as the
other came with the lunch, pretending to not notice his look of
surprise.
- Any problem? That is, you have shopped yesterday, did not
you? Lorna made a vague gesture that meant nothing.
- You have the keys of the store with you? Fine, I'll probably be
back before we close, but if not come back, bolt for me right?
- Sure. - Dulcie did not ask anything. - See you tomorrow, if not
return until later.
The traffic was heavy to London and got worse the closer Lorna
came to the city center. It took over an hour to reach
Holland Park, where Cathy had an apartment, and another twenty
minutes to find a place to park.
Cathy was no longer crying when she opened the door to his
sister. His eyes were swollen and there was something in his
face, something in his attitude that Lorna had never seen it
before.
- What happened, honey? - Lorna was just saying, as he
embraced his sister, affectionately.

- I'll make coffee. - He walked away from it. Cathy looked thinner
than ever.
Lorna looked around as he followed his sister into the kitchen.
The apartment was messy as usual. Scattered on the floor, could
see several pairs of expensive shoes. A chair was a huge stuffed
rabbit, one more to enrich the huge collection of Cathy, who spent
his money as if he was born in trees. The last time that Lorna had
been in the room of her sister, told more than thirty bottles of
perfume on the dresser, not to mention the jewels scattered and
makeup that would make for a lifetime. And the clothes! Cathy
had many that could even replace the store's inventory of Lorna.
But that was the idea that Cathy had Luxury. It was manic to buy
things and sister quite understand why. Cathy had a poor
childhood, very poor.
- You're thinner - Lorna said. - I know that the models should be
thin, but frankly ...
Cathy laughed, a throaty laugh, bitter.
- Really? It is an irony in these circumstances.
- What circumstances?
- I'm pregnant. And do not look well for mimi I said I'm pregnant,
but I'm dying. - She took the two mugs of coffee and returned to
the room.
Lorna was in the same place for a while. He leaned on the sink,
feeling the heart like a stone. I was greatly disappointed and
shocked as well. This kind of thing happens every day around the
world ... But for Cathy? For your sister?
He went to the room and sat down in front of Cathy, momentarily
not knowing what to say.
- Cathy, you ... only you are nineteen years ...
- So? - She lit a cigarette and swallowed deeply. Lorna, wishes to

make this guy? Do not stop judging me! You think I was a virgin or
something? Not everyone is like you ...
Lorna's eyes closed involuntarily and Cathy repented at once.
- Oh, sorry, sorry! That's not what I meant. Is that I am in such a
state of panic!
- Okay. Forget - Lorna asked. Cathy had never been so
insensitive, but no matter.
- I did a pregnancy test. I called to find out the result and told me it
was positive. I panicked, then, and I called you. But that was over
an hour and now I'm calmer. I need not have gone here. I am very
grateful - he said quickly - but I tried to tell him not to come, if it
had shopping to do, because I have to leave soon. Moreover,
there is nothing you can do. What should be done is obvious.
Lorna's face remained impassive, but fundamentally she was very
concerned.
- Listen, I'm not judging you, believe me. Who am I to judge? I'm
just surprised to have made it happen. I do not mean to have sex,
get pregnant is that is the problem. I thought I knew to take care
of itself. You're not naive, Cathy, why not take pills or something?
- I take pills, but forgot to take one night. Was drunk, you know?
- Drunk?
- It will now begin to fight me - Cathy responded. The fault was
not all mine. Karel invited me to dinner at his house in
Knightsbridge and I mixed wine with brandy. After dinner, we
continued to drink while we talked, it was so. The important thing
is that I forgot to take my pill. I went to bed with several nights in a
row Karel e. .. gave in giving. - She tried to feign nonchalance, but
not convinced. Cathy was not the same. There was a hardness, a
bitterness in his face that Lorna had ever seen before.
Making an effort to appear calm, asked:

- And what Karel said all this? I hope you phoned him and told ...
- No. He would not even be a little concerned.
- What! What's this? He is married?
- No.
- Karel de what? Who is he?
- No matter. - Cathy left the cigarette in the ashtray. - Look, I have
to leave. I have to be the agency at four o'clock.
Lorna did not move. He knew for months did not come out of
Cathy discos and nightclubs.
She had tried to advise her to be a little more moderate, saying
that sleepless nights and drink too much harm its appearance,
and their survival depended on a model's appearance.
Examined her sister, secretly. Cathy was much more lean, not
eating well, but was still beautiful. Was also vulnerable. She was
not silly or naive, but it was obviously vulnerable.
- If he is not married, why so much secrecy?
- I'm not making no secret - said Cathy. It Karel Van der Buren, as
is so interesada.
- The photographer. - Lorna remembered having read the name in
the magazine.
- The photographer. He's getting popular lately. He is very good.
By the way, saw the magazine today? Saw the pictures?
Lorna confirmed with a slight nod.
- What were you saying just now, when he said it was obvious
what to do? Karel does not know anything, so ...
- Not going to know. - Cathy emptied the mug of coffee and lit
another cigarette before he spoke again. - I do an abortion.
- Cathy! Wait a minute ...
- Do not mess! Already decided.
- But ...

- But not even half but!

- Shut up and listen - Lorna said firmly. - You have to tell Karel, he
may have another solution.
- If you think that he would offer to marry me, is wrong. He loves
his freedom, is arrogant, ambitious and womanizer!
- If you know it's all this then why ...
- Because it is also very attractive. I felt attracted to him. But I'm
not in love, the love of God! For weeks I have not seen!
Cathy was getting dangerously nervous. Lorna also, but was
more controlled than her sister, and was not sure if he was angry
with her or to such Karel.
- Listen to - Cathy now busy walking around the room - I need
money.
- Money?
- For abortion! Have to be done in a private clinic. You know I
spent all the money he earned, so here I will sell it. - Cathy
showed a coat of fox fur. - Vale hundreds of pounds. And it's
brand new.
Lorna shook his head sadly, Cathy had always wanted a fur coat.
- You worked hard to buy one.
- But I did not buy that jacket. It was a gift from an admirer.
- Karel?
- No, a new admirer. - It now seemed more satisfied with herself. It's someone who works in television. He got a wonderful contract.
will appear in a series of commercials for a new product makeup.
I go in life, Lorna, and not ruin my career because of a child who
does not want. Now please go away. You are slowing me down.
Lorna rose. Was desperately worried, bewildered with how Cathy
had changed that year. My God, what was happening with
it?

Suddenly, Cathy ran toward her and hugged her.

- Please excuse me, Lorna. I did not want to fight you. I know you
have good intentions.
- You are my only concern in all this - said Lorna.
- There's still time, use it to think. If you decide to have the baby,
you know you can always count on me. After all, this was the
original plan, was not it? That would take us two together after the
shop ...
Cathy did not answer.
- Take care - Lorna continued. - Promise me you'll think about it.
Finally Cathy agreed and Lorna left without another word. They
kissed quickly, sad to have discussed.
Lorna worried walked to his car, but gave them the game. He felt
his head turn and was looking forward to seeing nothing. The fight
between her and Cathy, all the sister had said, returned to his
memory. Suddenly he felt a great rage, as it felt for a long time. It
was Cathy's fault! It was not her fault!
Memories of the past paraded before their eyes. Memories of his
mother arguing with another man with whom she lived. Cathy and
her visions at bay in a corner, watching her mother being slapped
in the face. The muffled sobs of Cathy ... two girls always dressed
in secondhand clothes ... living in houses so wet that the paper
had come loose from the wall. The constant lack of money, the
discussions, the ordinary men who were in the life of his mother,
always breaking promises, always taking their money, getting
drunk, causing confusion.
Women is that they always end up suffering, never men. It
seemed that would never end. And now ... that Cathy would be
with any problem, as the man responsible
or take cognizance of the fact? He amused and, according to

Cathy is not interested the slightest by what provoked.

- That we'll see! - Lorna cried aloud. Men! Is the selfishness of
them had no end? Was driving without realizing what he was
doing. He stopped at the intersection and then realized than
planned. Cathy had spoken Knightsbridge!
He went to a payphone and consulted a list. Dominated by the
revolt, took a great effort to stop shaking and find the phone you
are looking for. And also the address.
The phone was answered quickly and Lorna slipped a coin in the
slot. He did not speak, only listen.
- Van der Buren - said the voice on the other side. And he
repeated: - Van der Buren ... Hello?
Then he was at home! Lorna hung up the phone and returned to
his car. Knightsbridge address was easy to find. It was a big
house, old and very well preserved. Up to four stone steps and
rang the bell and waited.
A woman of middle age with a huge, old-fashioned apron opened
the door.
- I would like to talk to you. Van der Buren - Lorna said with a
calm that surprised her.
- But he is not at home, miss.
It was evident that the woman had instructions as to unknown
girls who beat the door of the photographer. Thus, Lorna used his
head and smiled happily.
- Okay, he's expecting me. We just talk on the phone.
- Oh! - The woman began to smile. - Sorry, did not think ... Miss
- Can I come in please? - Lorna was already coming and the
woman fell a little further opening the door for her.
Was taken to a huge living room and advised that Mr.. Van der
Buren was up there.

- I will tell him that Miss arrived - the woman warned, retreating.
CHAPTER II
Anton Van der Buren was starting to pack. He heard the bell and
looked strange to the maid when she came into her room after
beating
the door.
- What is it, Mrs.. Gray?
- A person wants to see you sir. Anton. A girl.
- And what is the name of the girl? - He asked smiling.
- Oh! I. .. not ask. But I've never seen before around here said,
trying to help. - It's a tall girl, beautiful and blonde hair.
Anton's smile got wider.
- I think there must be a mistake, Mrs.. Gray. It's probably
someone looking for my cousin. A model and future model,
perhaps?
- No, not with Mr.. Karel. Is the girl who just talk on the phone. I
did not ask his name, because she told me that you was waiting.
Anton raised his eyebrows in surprise. How strange! I was not
expecting anyone, had not talked to anyone, but someone tried to
talk to him from a payphone.
Who would?
- Very well, Mrs.. Gray, will go down. - He looked at his watch. He
saw that he had enough time before the flight to Amsterdam, but
had to make a visit before boarding. - Please, Mrs.. Gray, could
be kind enough to pack my bag? Put in everything on the bed,
minus the newspapers, of course. - He walked to the door, then
returned, taking a note of the portfolio. - Have a beer for me and
thank you.
- Oh, sr. Anton, thank you. When will be back?

- In England? Or the house of my cousin?

- Right here - the woman smiled. Now he smiled maliciously.
- The next time you're traveling Karel.
Mrs.. Gray was still laughing after he left the room. That nice man!
He looked at the note that had given him for a beer. That would
give a couple of beers! Mr.. Anton never navia is staying there
many days and then two whole weeks. But Mr.. Karel was in
Africa taking pictures in the last ten days. Funny, he thought, as
those two were different.
In the room, Lorna was still standing, eager to face Karel Van der
Buren. What horrible environment, she thought. No doubt he
spent a lot of money on decor. It was a spacious room full of spots
and modern ornaments, and dozens of pictures in frames, most
naked. In a bow window, a sofa full of cute colorful cushions. The
old fireplace was moved in the middle of all those modern things.
Lorna put his hands in his coat pockets and looked at the couch in
disgust. How convenient, no need for the stairs! It was an ideal
room to practice the routine of seduction ... if the girl in question
enjoyed that kind of environment. He turned when he heard the
door open.
Anton stopped, deeply puzzled. Mrs.. Gray had not done a good
description of the visitor. Yes, the girl was high, but not too high.
His hair was not only blondes, when she moved her head, all the
colors of the sun seemed to shine in it.
It was not pretty. It was, he concluded, beautiful. And he was very
angry. His eyes were so fascinating, that they would not need light
or the makeup she wore. Those eyes speak for themselves, and
at that moment shone with undeniable fury, Anton closed the door
behind him.
- It seems that Miss wants to talk to me?

Lorna was surprised. His appearance left her shocked. She had
imagined ... well, not lost much time thinking about it. But certainly
expecting someone younger. My God, this man was much older
than Cathy! Should have thirty years, and as far as he knew,
Cathy did not like older men.
More shocking was the way he was dressed. A conventional dark
suit and white shirt and tie, which combined with an office more
refined than a darkroom or a photo studio.
What about your living room ... definitely did not match the owner.
Either the owner did not fit her. No way he seemed to be who was
neither his office was a reflection of his personality.
- It's Mr.. Van der Buren?
- Am. - He walked toward her with outstretched hand. - I do not
think we've met before. Miss is ... He smiled knowing that I had
never seen before. Would not have forgotten!
Lorna became increasingly bewildered. I wanted to go back, run
him, He felt intimidated in the presence of the man. The time it
also did not help. with his six feet he dominated, despite her use
of high heels.
More disturbing than ever was his smile because he smiled when
he was forced to admit that was very attractive.
But Lorna did not flinch. Did not move at all. He hands where they
were, in pockets, ignoring the hand he extended, looking into his
eyes.
- I am sister Cathy.
- Cathy? Sorry, I know of no Cathy.
- Really? So let me refresh your memory! The name is Brenner.
Cathy Brenner, the tall, blond girl who is expecting his child! The
model that you seduced for some time that his office plastic, after
get her drunk.

She noticed that he began to understand, but the next words left
her furious.
- You are making a mistake, Miss. Brenner is talking to the wrong
man. I'm not ...
But Lorna would not give chance to finish, to lie.
- There are so many women who can not remember who slept
with? - Said, furious. - My sister knows exactly when she became
pregnant, so do not try to escape responsibility! Cathy has
nineteen, Van der Buren, and you ...
The ringing of the phone on a table near the stopped in midsentence. He turned, looking at the device and then to the man
before her. Why the hell he did not say anything, or at least
answered the phone? Why would stare at her like a rarity?
Anton was still perplexed. Damn Karel! What kind of trouble he'd
got? And it was not the first time! I felt sorry for the girl. Not
necessarily Cathy Brenner, but this girl, this beautiful and
protective sister. I have never seen someone so angry, so deeply
concerned. Answered the phone thinking it as he spoke.
Lorna turned away, discouraged. At least one man had the
decency to look embarrassed. Not that his anger with this fall. He
wanted it to end soon with the call to close the matter and it would
leave that place.
My God, it was cold! He was speaking in a language she did not
understand. Dutch, probably, his name was Dutch, was not it? He
turned and looked at it again.
Attractive, surely man was. Her blonde hair had a few silver
threads. The brown eyes showed golden reflections and gave the
impression of honesty, openness. If he had known in other
circumstances, would think he was very different.
I could understand that his sister-felt drawn to him, despite his

age. Physically, he had everything, an athletic build, a good time,

a pretty face that would attract the attention of any woman. And
he knew it! What Cathy said even if it? A womanizer, among other
things. Well, at least they matched the inconstancy.
When he hung up, Lorna continued to talk as if the interruption
had not happened.
- Cathy has nineteen, Van der Buren, and you old enough to be
her father! How do you feel about that? How does it feel to know
that she is considering an abortion?
He looked at her for long moments before answering.
- Heartbroken - said at last, the voice. - I am devastated by all
this. - But she was even bleaker. He seemed to want to kill him, or
the brightness of those
beautiful eyes indicated that she was about to burst into tears?
Both did, her last words had reinforced the decision taken minutes
ago. Do not tell him the mistake I was making about him.
Karel thought advisable to know it all by him and not by a
hysterical woman. Moreover, after all the abuse that she had told
him to clarify
Karel was not there to feel a complete idiot. Well I tried to undo
the misunderstanding, but she did not give him chance to speak.
And now it was late.
I have found the girl in different circumstances. I imagined how it
would really, when it was calmer. In anger, it was something that
intrigued him, that had nothing to do with her physical beauty.
- Ms. Brenner, please, do not we talk about all this calmly? Do not
want to sit - he said, pointing to the couch.
- I stand. - He continued to call her Miss. Brenner, but do not
bother to explain that his name was Stewart, because she and
Cathy had different fathers. It did not matter. - I wonder what to

do, I told you what are the intentions of Cathy.

- Do you think it likely that you change your mind?
- This is for you to discover!
- What do I do?
- You can go there and talk to her? Cathy is not in love with you,
and not in love with her, so I doubt she expect you to make the
honor commands. Frankly, I'm happy about that because I would
like to have him as a brother!
- Message received - Anton said, realizing he could not calm her. Tell me, why not come here to Cathy, herself?
- She said you might be interested in the least. Charming, no? But
I'm glad to see that she exaggerated a little. Anyway, now is
aware of everything. Do not worry about taking me to the door,
unfortunately I can not say I had pleasure to meet you. Know
where to find my sister and if you can not remember your phone, I
suggest you look in your little black book! Goodbye.
Lorna left the room slamming the door with such violence that it
shook. Anton laughed when he heard that she did the same thing
with the front door. What a beautiful woman! And what genius!
But her smile faded quickly when he sat on a wicker chair to think.
Glad Karel arrive the next day. He was in Africa for ten days,
taking pictures in exotic places. But there was no hope of finding it
immediately. He looked at his watch. Karel should have shipped
back. Damn!
He got up and went to the room that my cousin used as a studio.
Twenty minutes later he left, leaving a sealed envelope with the
electric kettle in the kitchen, with the name of Karel and the word
"personal." Told briefly what had happened, without making any
comment.
Karel would do all he could to help Cathy Brenner, was sure. He

could be a womanizer, but he had a soft heart, especially for

beautiful women.
What was the first name of the sister of Cathy? Neither had the
opportunity to ask. If only Mrs.. Gray had done it! But he knew his
last name, and this was the most important. Could look in the
phone book. But not now!
He was deeply committed to seeing it again, but not yet. Needed
to give time to calm down. He would wait until the deal between
Karel and Cathy had been resolved, the way they both saw fit. In
fact, the problem was the two, no one else.
The next time you come to England would call her sister Cathy
and invite to dinner. After all clear, even about his true identity,
there would be no reason for her to refuse his invitation.
Lorna Cathy tried to call a dozen times during Friday, Saturday
and Sunday morning, but nobody answered. Wonder what Mr Van
der Buren had said. Where was Cathy? She could be working on
the weekend!
When the doorbell rang a little after ten, his doubts vanished. He
opened the door and found Cathy very white and still.
- Cathy! What ... - He saw that his sister was about to faint. Cathy, Cathy! What have you done? - Grabbed her arm and
helped her up the stairs.
- Nothing, honestly! - Cathy replied, shaking his head. He sat
down heavily in a chair in the living room of Lorna, his hands
trembling. - I had a miscarriage, Lorna, I ... - Began to cry softly.
Lorna has made tea and put the tray on the floor beside the fire.
Then he sat in silence until the sister be able to speak.
- Ironic, no? - Cathy's voice was a little more than a whisper. - The
case was taken from my hands.
- When did it happen?

- This morning.
- My God! Cathy, why do not you ... How did you come here?
- By taxi. I paid a fortune.
- I should have phoned, should not have come this far! Should
have called a doctor, Cathy! He knows that if he had called me I
would have gone immediately. I do not understand you, really!
What are you trying ... - He stopped to see the expression on the
face of Cathy. The sister deserved a good sermon, but not now.
She looked deeply exhausted.
- I would not stay in my flat. I do not want anyone to see me like
this. I do not need a doctor, I will improve soon.
- Let - Lorna said with patience. - I take it to bed. Need a good
rest. This is a word you do not know, right? - He bit his lip as he
helped Cathy to sit up. There she stood again, tormenting his
sister.
Cathy did lie on his bed and then called the doctor, without
consulting her.
Cathy did not react when Lorna advised that the dr. Smith had
arrived. He left them alone and went to lunch. He had the
impression that years passed before the doctor left the room.
- I spent a beautiful sermon in his sister - he said, and Lorna
invited him to sit,
- Good. I had planned to do just that.
- She told me that is a model.
- It's true. It is a tiring job, contrary to what you think. She loves it,
of course, but go out every night of the week, no vacations,
smokes too much, drink a lot and hardly eat.
Dr. Smith whistled softly.
- The result could only be that. Frankly, I am surprised that she
has aborted. Do not come to say that she is undernourished,

but ...
- But what? - Lorna looked forward to it. - It is with anorexia?
- No. But if you start eating normally, regularly, some will have
problems. I told her so, Miss. Stewart. He also said that a
balanced diet can
give your body all necessary nutrition, without leaving it plumper. I
do not think she is anemic, however, advised her to consult your
doctor and do some
examinations. Meanwhile ...
- Meanwhile she will be here.
- Great. - He stood up. - I left a recipe with it. buy the drugs
tomorrow. And convince her to stay in bed a few days. His sister
is very weak, Miss. Stewart.
Cathy continued depressed some days and Lorna did him
questions or criticism. The sister was with appetite, which was
already a good sign. Only when Cathy stood up
few hours a night in midweek, said Lorna what was in her mind.
Intended to start a new life, from now on eating, sleeping more, to
take care.
- The doctor scared me, Lorna. After all, I ... I do not want such a
thing happen to me again. But I had very bad luck.
- I do not see what chance has to do with it. - Lorna gave it a hot
drink and turned on the gas heater in the ceiling. November was
approaching fast and was getting colder.
- I was unlucky! - Cathy insisted. - It was the first time I forgot to
take the pill and look what happened! If that's not bad luck, I do
not know what is!
- Did you forget your pill because he was drunk, remember?
Cathy was silent. There was no answer to that.
- Now tell me what happened to Karel.

- Karel! - Cathy laughed for the first time in days. - Karel was
furious with you. Absolutely furious!
Lorna remembered him. I could not imagine him furious. It looked
like a person so controlled!
- The feeling is mutual, I tell you.
- Lorna, if you want to talk to me about this, please stop criticizing.
Remember that I am nineteen and that is no longer responsible
for me - he said, tenderly. - You did too much for me in the past.
You know I am very grateful for that, but you must understand that
we are different. We think different. I do not criticize him for even
thinking about money, or because they hate men. I understand
you. understand that is the way it is. I want the same
understanding from you.
- I said I will correct, and I even. I'm not the idiot who thinks I am. I
still have my dreams, the same as used to tell him as a child. You
also had their dreams and
got what he wanted: his beautiful loja.-succeeded in its way, but I
never criticized for working day and night.
- You are interfering too much in my life, Lorna - Cathy continued.
- I told you this before. You should have seen his face when I
TCont that a man had given me the coat fox fur! What is it,
anyway? Just because you do not accept anything a man does
not mean I have to do the same. David can give me as many gifts
as you like and I will not complain! Besides having a fabulous job,
he is very rich. By the way, take me to spend the Christmas
holidays in the Canary Islands. We will have three weeks of sun
and then start working on those television commercials that told
you.
- Now let's all clear - Cathy asked. - I will take good care not to
get sick, do not get pregnant again, but I will continue to enjoy

myself. I do not want to discuss with you my lifestyle. I hate to

argue with you, Lorna, you're all I have in the world and want to
be friends. So please accept me as I am.
It was a speech and so. Lorna took his drink, thinking about how
to respond. Cathy had asked him to take as it was. I had no
choice. The sister had nonsense lately, but at least noticed it.
Basically, however, it would not change.
Before he had the opportunity to speak, Cathy continued. with
calm and reasonable voice, continued to comment on her attitude.
- You should not have gone in the house of Karel. That's what I
call it intrusion. It was too far, Lorna.
- I. .. i know. - Lorna could not deny. It was Cathy who should tell
Van der Buren, not her. I had thought about it many times. But it
was too late,
and his only excuse was the anger he felt.
- I was so angry that not stop to think. I could not bear the idea of
Karel escape responsibility, as you ...
- Do not be silly! Of course I would say to him!
- But you said ... ,
- I was not thinking clearly on Thursday. I'm no martyr, I do not like
to suffer in silence!
- But I was so ...
- I told you - Cathy insisted, waving his hand in the air. - I was not
thinking clearly. Furthermore, Karel would be able to help me, it
does not matter what I decide. And that's exactly what he did,
Lorna, therefore, do not misjudged him. He came to see me on
Saturday night and talked about all very civilized. Karel wanted to
do something to help me, but I ... we ... were realistic. We're not in
love with each other, none of us are ready for marriage, so

marriage is not interested. He took me to dinner and it was terrific.

I was back only an hour ago when I began to feel ill. Lorna tried to
keep her voice calm.
- Do not be angry with me, Cathy, but that he did not searched on
Thursday night or Friday? Why did not you see it soon? Why wait
until Saturday night?
- Because he was in Africa. Should be back on Friday, but there
was a problem and he had to stay another day. Also, I went out
with David on Thursday and Friday. .
Lorna not heard the last sentence.
- Africa? He was not in Africa! What kind of history went up? " He
was in Knightsbridge on Thursday!
Cathy began to laugh.
- He did not invent any story. It is typical even you!
- Cathy, what are you talking about? I was face to face with Karel
on Thursday, I guarantee. Stop whining and drink your chocolate.
Obedient, Cathy drank it all. Was deliberately provoking Lorna,
and she knew it.
- You leave me waiting all night? - She asked and Cathy laughed.
- The man with whom you spoke was not Karel. Startled, Lorna
looked at her sister.
- Of course he was Karel! Before you start talking, do not forget to
ask if it was Van der Buren.
Cathy laughed.
- He was ... it is Van der Buren. It's cousin Karel, Anton. And Karel
was mad at because you told him everything! But just seeing the
funny side of things.
- Glad to hear that you found it funny - Lorna said Cathy was
tense and serious.
- Sorry. But I can not understand is why Anton did not explain

everything to you.
The scene of Thursday returned to Lorna's mind as a movie.
Unconsciously, he put his hands on his face on fire.
- He tried - acknowledged. - In fact he tried. But I ... I would not let
him talk.
- I can imagine - Cathy said. After seeing Lorna red
it was a rare thing, tried to calm her. - Hey, Lorna, do not be so! I
can imagine what I said to Anton, but he lives in Amsterdam. You
will never see it.
- Thank God! - Lorna said. Cathy looked surprised
sister-I did not expect that reaction. I expected her to say he did
not care a damn, even if he were your neighbor. - I throw Cathy,
I'm exhausted.
I will in a few minutes. Before I call David.
Where that David thinks you are?
- I told him and the manager of my agency that you were very flu
and I would take care of you and the store - he confessed, with a
knowing grin. - I hope you do not mind.
Lorna went to bed, exhausted and confused. I was ashamed of
his behavior in front of Anton. But he soon fell asleep. It was his
custom to lose sleep because of one man.

CHAPTER III
- It's not what I had in mind ... but it is not bad! Summers Eve
exclaimed, looking at the huge mirror
Felina's locker room.

Lorna tried not to laugh. The dress was perfect Eve, would she
not understand? The lawyer asked him to get something
spectacular for your engagement party
and had found those clothes.
- It's a classic style, Eve can not go wrong with this type of
clothing or it is not spectacular enough?
- Yes - Eve agreed, smiling. - It is with the color I'm worrying
about, not with the dress. You bought especially for me?
- Sure, but it does not matter. I will sell easily, Christmas is
coming.
- He is very ... red! - Eve said, hesitating, before the mirror.
- For your skin tone and hair color is ideal, Eve I wish I could use
as well. But I can not. Does not match my hair.
She raised the hair on the top and looked smiling at his image.
- I'm much better with hair up, right?
- I agree entirely. Can not leave without your hair when you get a
neck so beautiful.
- Hair no fix? - Eve repeated. - Is that what you think of my hair?
- Frankly, yes. And that's nothing to embellish.
- Lorna, you suck! I will use that because it makes me look
younger. I do Thirty years ago this month, but do not want to bring
this demonstration.
- You do not seem to have thirty years and will not influence it on
the dress, we both know very well. But do me a favor, take a look
at it in daylight, these artificial lights do not value anything. We go
to the store.
- I had a better idea! - Eve exclaimed suddenly. - Julian decides to
leave. I like the dress, Lorna, but ...
- But Julian wants to please.
- Well .. - Eve seemed a little embarrassed. - You think I'm making

a nice mess, huh?

- Absolutely - Lorna secured with sincerity. It was not every day
that a girl was celebrating the birthday and engagement at the
same time. Eve deserved that happiness was entitled to feel
confused. He agreed without problems she took the dress to the
office to show it to the groom.
Business was good. The Christmas season has already begun
and Dulcie was working four days a week to help her. Life had
returned to normal and Cathy had returned to London after a
week in their company.
Was showing a belt for a girl when Eve came back and waited till
she had to meet the customer,
- Julian said you have very good taste.
- He approved? - Lorna gave a satisfied smile.
- He said you understand more fashionable than me. - Eve
pretended jealousy. - Then I asked why not marry you.
- Eve!
- Just kidding - said the other laughing. - I would not ask such a
thing might not like the answer. How long he thinks he can still be
single?
- Only I am interested in my shop.
- You are very cold, Lorna, and greedy - Eve joked.
- It's true. Now sit here to do my check. - Lorna laughed and
pointed to a chair near a table.
- The label with the price was still in dress and Julian said he
wanted to pay - Eve said.
- Good for you!
- Yeah, well I will have money left over to buy a new dress for
Christmas.
She picked up a dress hanger but Lorna shook his head firmly.

- Put it back, Eve I will never sell it to you. First, because the farm
is not the first and second because it will not appreciate it.
Eve agreed immediately and put it back in place.
- I decided what to do at Christmas? You and your sister will travel
to somewhere?
- Cathy goes - Lorna replied without thinking. - Will spend three
weeks in the Canary Islands. .
Eve immediately repeated the invitation to spend Christmas with
her and her parents.
- I am immensely grateful, Eve is very kind of you, but I'm very
shy, and I feel bad between people who do not know.
Dulcie and Eve looked at each other, aghast.
- You, shy? - Said one.
- Since when? - Completed the other.
The two ended up drowning out the protest of Lorna. Eve ensured
that there would be other guests, who loved his parents receive.
And Dulcie ... well, Dulcie was horrified at the idea of Lorna spend
Christmas alone.
After Eve came, Dulcie has offered to open the shop on the eve of
New Year, that Lorna could stay in the house of Summers to the
first of January. If they were relying on the previous year, the day
before the New Year would be profitable. There were always
women who needed a dress at the last minute.
- It is inappropriate to guide you back to Hampshire if I'm right
here in Windsor. Take care of everything, stay rested.
- You do not go to a party?
- Yes, but I have plenty of time to get ready. I live five minutes
away by car.
Once having made the decision, Lorna realized he was looking
forward to that trip. Did not want to spend Christmas alone. Of all

the days of the year, that was the only one who used to carouse.
On Saturday night, put the books in the store today. Despite
having attended poor schools, and never stay in the same two
consecutive years due to the irregular life of the mother, supplied
his lack of knowledge with intelligence.
I learned something new every day and read every kind of book in
his spare time. Learned much in school life and when it came to
judging people generally was infallible.
Rarely was wrong when he needed to do some discount, always
paid its suppliers in days, calculated with precision the interest of
the bank. It had been stolen in business when I was younger
because of their ignorance and that taught her to be very careful.
He turned off his electric calculator and got up from his desk,
thinking about the man who had stolen. At the time, it seemed that
he had brought a fortune, but by today's standards it was nothing.
Entre tanto, when it was stolen in desperate need of money.
Felina was opened exactly a year ago and went very well. Eli had
made his dream, and the following year would have a substantial
profit.
Until now hardly won anything because he had a lot to pay:
refined and elegant facade, the clothes closets, balcony, etc..
After all, the store's inventory was already all paid. And yet been
able
buy for your apartment a carpet of excellent quality.
He looked at the pink carpet, the chairs and sofa upholstered in
chintz. Soon the buy side tables and lamps, reshape the
bathroom and replace your bed.
All in good time. The following year would be able to take a
vacation. Never traveled abroad, never had much of a holiday in
your life. Maybe I could rest a week.

Cathy's comment about his obsession of money returned to her

head. Did not want money just for the money. He wanted that
money represents: independence, freedom. He wanted, above all,
the sense of security it gave him. I would be perfectly happy to
spend it since it was getting more and since he had some
reservations, to always be able to buy what they needed. Cathy
realized all this.
Sitting next to the heater, Lorna suddenly realized that the tears
streamed down his face. What the hell was happening to her?
Why cry when he celebrated the completion of your dream?
Could be tears of happiness, yet is despised by them. It was the
kind of person who cried in vain. My God, did not feel so
vulnerable since ... since his unforgettable experience with Jake
Dougan.
The house of the country's Eve was not that far, the problem is
that Lorna could not find the place. He had left the main road just
after Alton, as Eve had explained, and now ran by roads, more
and more lost!
In the first phone booth he found, out of the car to search for the
name Summers in the list. Eve would call and ask her to come get
it. But there was no list in the cabin!
I was just wondering what to do when he saw a boy approaching
his dog.
- Please! - Called, running to him. - I am looking for a house
called "The Lions", you tell me where is it? It should not be far
away.
- But of course - the boy had an accent decidedly aristocratic. - It
is the home of Sir Michael. It is less than a mile away.
- Sir Michael? - Lorna looked at him, confused.
- She said she wanted Lions? The house of Sir Michael

Summers?
- Yes - Lorna felt suffocated. Eve's father was a sir? No
knew it! Now he realized it was over two times in front of the
house. At the entrance there were two stone lions in size. She
simply had found the house on top of a hill so big and gorgeous,
that not crossed his mind in there. - Now I remember where it is ...
required.
Arriving at the gate, Lorna pulled the car and turned the key. He
looked from one lion to another feeling a complete idiot.
The way forward was very long and straight. From where she
was, she could very well see the house. Not able to stay there,
with a sir, a lady ... and a handful of strangers. He looked at the
mansion at the end of the road feeling resentment against unjust
and irrational Eve why she had not said that this was the country
home of the parents? Why not told her that her parents had a
title?
Because Eve thought it natural. No wonder she was always
spending money, had money! Always suspected that her family
was rich, but that much?
The crazy thoughts went through her head. He wanted his car
was not so old, wanted to send him wash before leaving Windsor;
always wanted to watch the news to have to talk if someone were
to ask you something about
any event, wanted to have refused the invitation.
His imagination was running loose, imagining the questions that
these men would do him: "Tell us a little about you, Lorna." Or: "I
was told who runs a store
women's clothing. What did you do before that? What the country
really is? His parents were merchants? "
Lorna started the engine and gave astern. Walked back ten yards

and then stopped. Damn, what were you doing? Could not
escape! And why should he? Been invited, was expected. He
managed a little. In life you never presented a situation that she
was not able to cope, even Jake Dougan had been capable of it.
Looked in the mirror, then looked at the beautiful dress she wore.
It was silk, ivory and knew that it was very elegant, her makeup
was perfect. It would not make ugly in the house of anyone, nor in
that of Sir Michael and Lady Summers.
Engage first and followed by the confident way.
Eve appeared on the steps of the front door before she stopped
the car.
- How are you? - Said, while hugging affectionately Lorna.
- Leave the keys in the car, someone parked for you. Berry gem
will be taken up, one of the maids will take care of your clothes.
Merry Christmas! It was easy to find us?
- Merry Christmas! Yes, that is, I have not found soon.
Was taken into the friend, who talked nonstop.
Lunch is one of, come into the room to meet my mother and
father. Cooled terribly, right? How was your day yesterday?
Sold horrors - Lorna replied, smiling, feeling more
libitum every second. It was presented to the parents of Eve in the
great room where there was a beautiful Christmas tree, the
largest he had ever seen.
I'm the last to arrive? - Asked the lady Summers.
No, dear - she replied, smiling. - We are waiting for my Aunt Mary.
- My great-grandmother - said Eve - She is always the last to
arrive. It is very old, so do not care.
They Lorna accommodate close to the fireplace where the fire
crackled. Sir Michael came and sat next to her. It was a bald little

man with a kind face.

- Where are the others? - He asked Eve - Where is Julian? You
have a hangover because of last night or is avoiding me for some
reason?
- Surf, Dad.
The room door opened. Lorna waited for a maid or a butler came
in, answering the call of
Sir Michael. She was mistaken.
- Ah, here you are! - Sir Michael said excitedly. He crossed the
room and put his arm around the shoulder of the man who had
just entered, which was not easy,
because the father of Eve was considerably lower. - I want to
present our guest who has just arrived - he continued, smiling at
the man.
Lorna did not move a muscle. I did not expect her to get up to
greet him or whether it should stay where he was. I just knew I
wanted to be invisible.
After all, the man who entered was nothing more, nothing less,
that Anton Van der Buren.
CHAPTER IV
After the shock, Lorna was disappointed and embarrassed.
Plunged back in time and heard his own voice screaming,
insulting. He hardly heard the presentation
Sir Michael was doing, only saw Anton Van der Buren smiling at
her, eyes shining, malicious.
Did not know what to do. The fear left her unable to move. What
did he say? What he would say about those people?
Anton stepped forward toward her, his hand outstretched. Without
knowing how, she managed to raise its arm of the chair. But he

could not speak, and the last thing I expected was that he raised
his hand to his lips and kissed softly.
- I am delighted ... delighted to meet you, Miss ... Stewart.
Tell yourself that you deserved the sarcasm it did not help. He
looked around to try and see how others were reacting. Lady
Summers smiled, Sir Michael took a bottle of crystal from the
hands of a maid who had just entered, Eve laughed and satisfied.
- This is Anton using all her charm - she said happily.
Lorna's eyes met the goals, while Anton is straightened. .
- I. .. sr. Van der Buren ... as ... how are you?
- Anton, please - he corrected. - It is very formal sr. Van der
Buren, is not it? - Of course the joke was directed only to her.
Sir Michael served the drinks and he broke the tension:
- I should add something more to the presentation, Lorna. Anton
is not only a great friend of the family. He'll succeed in business.
- Do not get ahead of time, Michael - Anton said, sitting next to
lady Summers. - I still have not taken any decision.
- You're too young to stop, Anton. I would not repeat this anymore!
- Sir Michael protested.
- Well, I want you to stop with this conversation - asked
Summers lady, smiling. - The poor Lorna has no idea bout what
they are talking! - He turned to Lorna and explained: Anton is
Dutch and lives and works in
Amsterdam. He is an architect, and Michael ...
Not like Michael - interrupted Eve - The work of Father
is very old, compared to his.
Thank you, dear - Sir Michael said with irony, as
Serbia drinks. - Your liquor, Lorna. I'm sure my daughter knows. It
is not the friendliest of creatures.
Lorna managed to smile. I would have asked for a stronger drink.

The atmosphere was light and warm, but did not belong to that
environment and felt a strange, there. In addition, he had to face
the watchful eye of Anton and, although he was grateful to him for
not having said anything that embarrassed, longed to return their
gaze to any other point. The worst was that he was watching fun.
Did you mean to tell Summers that had already met before? God
of heaven, as was tense and anxious!
Julian-enter that moment, with poor appearance, despite using a
very stylish suit. He kissed the three women, and Lorna explained
that he had exaggerated the drink the night before.
- We started the celebrations last night - he said.
- It will be a week and so, Lorna. I get back in shape! Just think,
tonight, tomorrow, the engagement party and then the reveillonl
Lorna wanted to say something about not sure how long it would
stay. But it would have to imagine something very plausible if he
wanted to leave the house before the scheduled date. The last
thing I wanted to do was to hurt the feelings of their hosts.
- I'm sure that Lorna will achieve. - A deep voice caused her to
turn her head, and once again came across the beautiful smile of
Anton Van der Buren. - I plan to take care of it personally and
ensure that you have a memorable week.
The smile was now puzzling and Lorna looked down. What he
meant exactly by that?
- Well, Anton! - Sir Michael said, before heading to his future son
in law. - What to drink, Julian? - Julian made
grimace.
- Water stress, Michael. Pura.
- Now, where was I? - Lady Summers turned again to Lorna. - Ah,
yes, I was saying that Anton is an architect. Well, he is leaving
Amsterdam to live in England. My husband will soon retire and

want Anton to replace the firm as senior partner.

- And Anton - said Sir Michael - insists he wants to retire too!
What is ridiculous at his age, is not it?
Lorna really did not care. But he could not express what I felt, of
course.
- I do not know, Sir Michael. It depends on many things pretending to answer a concern that did not feel. - And why, you
want to establish this in England?
- I like England. - Anton shrugged his broad shoulders slightly. Michael is exaggerating much. I'm
thinking about retiring, only to bring things
a little more quietly a kind of semi-retirement. I work at home, rec
truindo private houses, that sort of thing.
- Have you found a house for you? - Eve asked, Tando sen in the
lap of Julian.
- I'm thinking about it. - Anton turned to Lorna. - As you can see,
this question requires much thought.
In fact, she did not understand anything until Julian explained.
- Absolutely, if you stay with the firm of Michael, there is no need
to forget their interests in the Netherlands. Summers i could make
a company associated
and split time between London and Amsterdam. Ended up getting
more than they earn now!
- Which side are you on? - Sir Michael protested. - I'm trying to
convince Anton and there you go, Julian, trying to convince him to
give up! Also, Anton has
sold his company in the Netherlands. It is available ... or will be
soon. Then you will be bored if you do not work twelve hours a
day. He loves to work! And you
can not blame me for wanting that my firm is led by the best

architect of Europe.
- He is exaggerating again - Anton commented not at all
disconcerted. Again directed to Lorna as if she was interested.
Strangely, she was beginning to be interested. Why a Dutch with
a successful business in their own country would sell everything
and move to another
place to build private houses?
- Well, gentlemen, think no more discussion. - Lady Summers cut
it. It was a very elegant woman, with blond hair has a little gray. We run the risk of annoying our guest. - She smiled charmingly. Tell us a little about you, Lorna.
Privately, Lorna sighed. "There's going," he thought. "I do not
belong to this environment. What am I doing here?"
- Oh, there's very little to say - replied vaguely, sensing that Anton
watched with interest.
- Eve told me that his store is becoming a success. Of course
Windsor is always full of tourists - said Summers lady, happily
playing in a matter
she did not bother to discuss.
- Yes it's been a year since I opened it and so I have an idea of
what to expect at each station.
- He lives in Windsor? - The question was made by Anton.
- Of course she lives - Eve said, impatiently. - I told you, Anton,
she has an apartment above the store.
Actually Eve said as soon as it arrived the day before, now he
remembered. They were told that there would be a guest for the
week of Christmas, but had paid little attention to the fact. How
could I know that Lorna Stewart spoke of who was the sister of
Cathy Brenner? No wonder he could not find it in the London
telephone directory. Searching the wrong name in the wrong area.

- I think it should be exciting and dangerous to buy clothes for a

store - said the mother of Eve - The people's tastes vary so much,
no? I'm sure that I tend to buy only the things that I liked
personally.
- Fortunately I was never tempted to do that! - Lorna said, glad
that lady Summers was really interested. - Never sell anything to
Eve if I did that!
- Lorna has an incredible taste in clothes - said Julian. She and
Eve argue constantly about what is going well in Eve, but ... wait
till you see the dress she will wear at the engagement party!
- The car of his aunt is coming by the way, dear - "said Sir
Michael. - It is only an hour late. Not bad, considering his age.
- The children are with her? - Summers lady asked, standing up.
- It seems so.
Sir Michael and his wife left the room and Lorna took the
opportunity to try to escape as well. Needed some time to recover
himself, before meeting more new people.
- I. .. I think I'll get one just before lunch
- Said, seeming naturalness. - It could take me to the bedroom,
Eve? - She excused herself to the men and went with her friend,
having a sense of relief once it has departed from Anton Van der
Buren.
- I'll leave it at will. - Eve opened the door of a guest room. - I
need to greet Aunt Mary, until in a moment, Lorna. Can you find
your way back to the room?
- Sure! - Lorna smiled, though that was not a silly question. Lions
was a huge mansion and a person could easily get lost there.
They had traveled several corridors before reaching the wing that
was his room. Probably that was the wing of the guests.

His clothes had been taken from the bag and hung. Material toilet
was placed neatly on a shelf in bathroom. Lorna sat on the edge
of the bath, shaken by the events of that morning. I wanted to go
home, but of course it was impossible to do such a thing. What
could give reason to leave?
Usually it was unsafe, but everything was too much for her. First
that huge house filled with antiques, luxurious furnishings, family
portraits
and created, and not to mention the titles of owners. He was a
fish out of water.
Then find Anton Van der Buren was a tremendous shock. No one
there knew that already knew. And she was grateful to him for not
having talked about his first
meeting. But ... of all people in the world ... was incredible to be
forced to spend Christmas with him! If Cathy knew, would
certainly give good laughs.
Deep breath and looked up at length in the mirror, then had a
conversation with herself. He was proud to be able to remain
calm, to see things in perspective. Rarely if uncontrolled, as
happened when interfered in the life of Cathy, discussing with
Karel ... Anton. Outside his own prejudice against the men who
had made her do it, although he knew very well that not all men
were selfish. I had to stop that resentment against Anton, as he
had done nothing to deserve it.
The fact of being hosted there, well, only his sense of inferiority
could prevent her from having fun. Always amused well with Eve
and Julian, and Sir Michael and Lady Summers were beautiful
and friendly people. So why feel so nervous? From now on it and
be calm herself.
Retouched lipstick, has a brush on the hair and down, feeling

much better.
In the living room all talking excitedly. "Children" who had arrived
with Aunt Mary were brother and sister and had more or less the
same age as Lorna.
- Oh, Lorna, here you are! - Sir Michael came immediately in his
direction. - I want you to know my nieces, Cassandra and Roger,
both very talented. Cassandra
works for me. Just barely out of college and think you know
everything. But Anton will quickly make you change your mind
when you are working for him!
All this was said before Cassandra, who was smiling at his uncle.
It was a beautiful girl with dark hair and blue eyes. Dress
jnalha valued for her body.
Are you an architect? - Lorna asked, not hiding his surprise.
- She will be working with us after some time - Sir Michael joked.
- Nice to meet you. - The girl Lorna greeted without much interest
and glanced at Anton before responding to his uncle. - Anton and
I would do a good
team, Uncle Michael. I'm trying to convince you of that.
- Keep trying - said the uncle, laughing. - Maybe you can
influence it in a way that I can not. I have charm.
- He gave him no answer yet?
- No.
Cassandra's gaze rested again on Anton, who talked with Eve
and a lady with white hair. She was interested in him, not just
professionally.
- I'm Roger Summers - presented the brother of Cassandra,
leaning forward to Lorna. - I'm the black sheep of the family.
Talented, maybe, but not yet consecrated.
- And what does that mean? - Lorna asked, noticing his jeans, the

leather jacket, shirt with no tie and long black hair too. He seemed
out of place that people dressed tastefully. But he was gone,
really. It was part of the family black sheep or not.
- I am a painter. - The blue olhof incredibly equal to the sister
smiled at her. - Loser but optimistic.
- You guys are twins?
- Yes, unfortunately. - Cassandra looked at Roger with disgust.
- He is a disaster, right?
Do not wait for an answer from Lorna. It was close to Anton and
gave him the arm, lifting her face smiling at him. Of course I was
not interested in and Lorna had shown that very harshly.
In two minutes, Lorna realized it was actually a girl: pretty,
sophisticated and talented. But one voice was affected and
pedantic, ra stubborn and snobbish. And, above all, ruthless.
Lorna was presented to Mrs.. Collingham, aunt of lady Summers,
and again was surprised. The old lady was very thin, but fresh as
a rosebud. Without realizing it, calmed completament while talking
about various issues with it.
Precisely at a time, Sir Michael announced that the Christmas
lunch was served. He offered his arm to the old lady, leading the
procession to the dining room.
Lorna felt a hand on his shoulder and was tense when he turned
and gave each other with warm brown eyes smiling at her.
- Ms. Stewart - Anton said ceremoniously, with a slight head tilt.
Confused, he accepted the arm he offered her and the two went
behind Roger and Lady Summers to the dining room. Eve and
Julian ian after them and finally Cassandra, who had been
matchless cia and do not stop at all happy with that. It was clear
that she expected to be accom panied by Anton, Lorna and
wished he had done so. Why would you choose? What is meant

when he said he would "take care" of it?

The meal was completely different from any other celebration of
Christmas that Lorna had attended. It was a feast and lasted over
two hours. She sat between Mme. Collingham and Rogio
Summers. Anton took another seat at the table and was virtually
mono poliza by Cassandra. When Lorna realized that if he were
concerned about more than you should, she told herself that had
not yet recovered from the shock of finding it again.
But the truth is that she thought he was an extremely attractive
man. Your smile fascinated. When Anton was not smiling,
his brown eyes were observers
expressive and gave the impression of sincerity and frankness.
But when he smiled, they intensely illuminated narrowing the
corners and making the others wanted to smile with him.
The strong features of his face told a different story. The nose was
straight, the square jaw, the jaw line strong and clearly defined.
He had presence, and Lorna was not alone in thinking this.
However, it seemed a quiet man. He talked a lot but without
exaggeration, the opposite of Roger Summers.
Roger spoke to Lorna and not with her. The main topic of
conversation was themselves. Not that she cared about that, it
was easy to keep a conversation with him, just needed to do
some head movement and some heckling from time to time. The
afternoon went very quiet, but the tension of Lorna returned from
time to time.
In the evening, a light buffet was prepared for friends and
neighbors who had been invited to the meeting on Christmas.
Mrs.. Collingham, who had a rest in your room during the
afternoon, appeared
again by eight o'clock. She and Lorna, sitting away from the noise

of the huge living room, talked a lot. The music went quietly in a
mobile richly
notched. Suddenly, the volume increased and Roger appeared in
front of Lorna.
- You know what I mean, do not you? - Asked by sending
kisses toward the aunt. Your boy's face was flushed and he gave
a sly wink to Lorna.
Need even come with it now? - Mrs. protested. Collingahm.
- Lorna and I are in the midst of an interesting conversation about
the kind of dresses I used to use in the twenties.
In his twenties, Aunt Mary?
Bright! Now give us a kiss and short.
Lorna laughed, delighted with the presence of mind of the old
lady, because she knew very well that Roger did not want to kiss
her aunt but her. It served to drain
somehow self-sufficiency of Roger.
- But Aunt Mary, I did not ... Want to dance, Lorna?
Lorna agreed to not only disappoint you. He had drunk a little too
much, but it was harmless. Moreover, she could not spend the
night without dancing with anyone.
To his embarrassment, Roger you. kissed very light when the
music ended. It irritated her deeply, but not shown. Luckily he was
getting
keep things under control that night. Until emerged Anton Van der
Buren.
The proximity of it has something inside her collapse. Had already
experienced this the first time I met him at the home of Karel,
when he had been disturbingly
near it. It was happening again now, and no longer had the
excuse of anger to help her disguise his panic.

Indeed, this feeling, this fear was not new to her. Usually
happened when I was very close to a certain type of man. He
knew why this happened. I knew it was illogical. But he did not
know what happened when Anton Van der Buren came near her.
The hand that would touch on her shoulder was, instead, directly
to the pocket, and Lorna realized that it clearly what I was feeling.
Roger did not notice anything and strongly demanded by Anton
steal the pair.
Anton did not answer. Was looking deep into the eyes of Lorna,
reflecting the curiosity he felt about it.
Feeling uncomfortable with the way managed to paralyze it, Lorna
tried to be friendly.
- Hello, Anton! You would invite me to dance? The answer is
41
no, sorry. I'm still under the influence of wine and here is very hot.
Maybe later?
- Fine, then later. - He tilted his head slightly then looked in the
direction of Mrs.. Collingham. - Mary is trying to call you.
- Oh! Thank you. - Lorna excused himself and walked across the
room, trying to walk slowly. So that's what he wanted to tell you
when touched on his shoulder, did not invite her to dance! He was
a perfect idiot and even more when he realized he had invited to
dance later. Heavens, he should really think she was an oddity.
Maybe it was really an oddity.
- Sorry to interrupt your fun, Lorna - apologized to Mrs..
Collingham. - But it seems that Eve is gone and I do not want
Emma away from your guests. Will
would have the kindness to accompany me to my room? I'm a
little shaky and do not like to climb the stairs alone. Would you
mind, dear?

- Not at all. - Lorna helped her to stand, looking in particular

rapidly clock. - Oh, it's after eleven! I did not realize it was so late.
- I spent a lot of my time to sleep - the lady said, smiling. - But you
still go down and dance until dawn, what is right.
Not likely, thought Lorna. He was glad to be more than eleven
hours, so could go to the room. I would rather do that than be at
the party talking or dancing with Anton Van der Buren.
The fourth Mrs.. Collingham was on the other side of the house, in
the wing opposite the fourth Lorna. She said good night to you
and returned by the grand staircase with the intention to say to Sir
Michael, and will add to it, which was going to retire .. However, it
was Eve who saw first
- Hi, Lorna! The party is great, no? I missed Julian, you see him?
- No. Maybe he's out there taking a little air. Lorna smiled. Remember that he started the day with
a hangover.
Eve put her hair behind her ears, smiling.
- It was an interesting day, right?
- It was wonderful, Thank you Eve. Eve looked up at the sky.
- It will not pretend not to know what I mean, are you?
- No need to pretend. What are you talking about?
- From Anton, of course. He is very attractive even, no? - Hey
satisfied laughed, taking the arm of Lorna. - Come on, tell me you
did not notice?
- I realized - Lorna admitted. - So?
- Hence he is also interested in you. I saw the look
you traded when they were presented. He sympathizes with
you.
- You are completely wrong. - Lorna smiled, trying to
seem unconcerned. Could not blame Eve for misinterpreting the

look exchanged by them, but had to disappoint her. - Do not be

imagining things. - In any case, I'd just heard his father to go to
bed ...
- What? You must be kidding, it's still early!
- Sorry, but I'm exhausted. Yesterday I had a very hard day and
today I got up very early.
- Very good - agreed the other. - But just this once. Nothing to
leave early in our other parties. Deal?
- Deal. Take good night to your parents for me and, again, thank
you.
- Anton will be disappointed ... - Caused Eve
- I'm sure that Cassandra will make you company.
- This I guarantee. - Eve was now serious. - Listen, do not go to
bed already. Do not leave the field open for Cassie, she will not let
the opportunity slip. You are making a mistake if you are
interested in it ...
- I'm not - Lorna said, too serious. - Sincerely, Eve, I have the
slightest interest in Anton. Your cousin may have it. She, or any
other. Good night.
Lorna turned around and went up the stairs again, but not by
surprised the astonished gaze of Poor Eve Eve wondered what
had happened in the first meeting between her and Anton!
The music did not come to his room and liked to be silent. Parties
not attracted to, which was surprising considering the few that had
been in his life. He closed the curtains and then took a long bath.
Exaggerated his exhaustion to Eve; wanted to get away for that
day was too much for her. I would rather read a little.
When someone knocked on the door, his first intention was not to
respond. Then wondered who could be out of bed and wearing
the green robe. If someone had told you

morning, he would invite Anton Van der Buren, or any other man,
to come into your room to
midnight, never would have believed. However, it was what was
do at the moment.
- It is more than time to have a conversation, right?
- Anton said, when she opened the door. If he was surprised by
how well she did come, not shown.
- I - Lorna agreed. - Please sit down - invited indicating a
comfortable chair and sitting at the other forward.
- I wanted to talk to you all day - Anton began calmament
- But we have not had a minute to be alone.
- It's true. I also wanted to thank you for not ... did not say
anything about our previous meeting. I mean, the circumstances
ci ...
- Never occurred to me one thing. - He smiled. Especially when
he realized his affliction. You had a day difficult, Lorna, and I hope
that was not
my sake.
She did not know how to respond, so I was surprised. But their
tension during the day was not only due to his presence after the
first moment, let
to worry about whether or not Anton say something to Summers,
already knew he
say anything. But that perception of him because he realized that
was tense
all the time! Had thought that nobody would notice.
Seeing that she did not answer, he continued:
- Your eyes are so expressive, speaking through his mouth. Not
know that?
- No, and I'm sure you're exaggerating! SIDC must have a

hunch ... or you are particularly observer. I do not know which

the two. - Lorna was genuinely
fun. It was amazing how easy it was talking to him, especially in
view
the panic he felt when, just before he had approached her in the
room.
Despite being alone with Anton in the room, felt safe, first
because I knew he was not personally interested in it, and then
because he had arrived
the conclusion that Anton was a gentleman, a true gentleman.
He could have left it to make a fool of myself in front of Roger,
when thought was going to invite her to dance. But he did none.
Neither said anything that increases their distress to be presented
that morning. And how to meet them at the home of Karel ...
- Why do not you tell me who it was when we met at the home of
Karel? - She asked. - This is, I know what state I was, but you
could have accounted
everything before I leave.
His smile was malicious.
- Before you leave? You mean before he had shaken the
foundations of the building?
- Could be. - She smiled without embarrassment to remember
how
knocked the door. - So why not tell me who he was?
I tried. But control of the situation escaped from my hands.
Reached a point where it was useless I tell you. Especially with
Karel abroad.
Lorna smiled at him. In some corner of your mind, mistrusted that
first meeting that the man was not the photographer
fashions, womanizer, who was

for. Anton did not fit or the description that Cathy had Karel, nor
with that room, that room where horrible they had met. Should
I listened to your inner voice. The problem is that he was too
angry to listen to anything, including Anton.
- So his silence was out of kindness - said slowly. - You do not
want to increase my frustration counting that Karel was in Africa.
Did not want to make me feel stupid, after all the abuse that I
made.
- Oh, were not so bad. - Anton tried to lessen the severity of the
incident. - Unless you told me I was old enough to be father of
Cathy. - Seeing the embarrassment of Lorna, he raised his hand:
- Do not worry. thirty-six years, I theoretically old enough to be
father of a girl of nineteen. But this is a depressing thought!
Lorna rose. It was time to end that conversation.
- So I want to apologize twice for making him feel so old and
throughout the episode.
- It is not necessary. - He smiled. - I am glad that clear the air.
He also stood up. It was clear that she wanted to send him away.
- He knew what ... what happened to Cathy? - Lorna asked as he
walked to the door.
- Karel called and told me. She is his half-sister, is not it? The
different names ...
- Yes
He shook his head slightly and suddenly felt Lorna again the
disturbance that it caused physical proximity to it. He tried to
control, not wanting her panic became apparent. Did not want to
spoil things now that she had finally achieved a good relationship
with Anton. After all, would be in his company until the New Year,
or a whole week.
- Let me give you some advice - Anton said. - Clearly

you worry too much about Cathy. It is not a child, and make their
own mistakes in life as each one of us. Lorna gave a deep sigh in
agreement.
- She has told me not to meddle in his life.
- Do not blame you for that. His intentions were the best, just
trying to protect her. But it is the guardian of his sister, Lorna.
- You are right. - She shrugged and opened the door. - Thank you
for coming to see me. Good night.
- Actually, I ... - Anton stopped, said good night and not con plete
the sentence.
He crossed the hall and went to his own room. He threw his jacket
on the bed and sat in a chair. A minute later get up again and
grabbed a pack of cigarettes.
Needed to think.
Was in love with her. Since October, when found, not stopped
thinking about it one day, and there were few women who had this
effect on him. The party had lost the favor when he learned that
she went to sleep. Do not come back down, also did not like
parties. They bored him.
"We change when you get older," she thought, recalling the
comments of Michael on his dedication to work. Not true. No
more. His first job out of college in England outside the firm of
Summers. The work there was still innovative, but even in those
days ... well, Michael had put in check, telling him politely that he
was far ahead of his time.
And here he was now in a position to replace Summers and do
things his way. It was an interesting idea, but it was everything.
Had reached the maximum of his career, had a firm success in his
homeland, until recently decided to sell it. She was pushing her
away slowly

acting more as a consultant until the contracts are still pending to

be resolved. And then he would
free.
Anton knew and loved England as much as he loved and knew
the Netherlands. He thought of Lorna, living in Windsor, and
smiled
the idea. He had studied at Eton and
therefore aware of Windsor, a neighboring city such as the palm
of your hand. What remained of his family was divided between
the countries. Always intended to return to England, though he
had set a deadline. But neither could guess that would change the
discontent that would begin to grow inside of a year ago.
Will his return to England would be sufficient to mitigate this
feeling or, as Michael said, would be bored with a lighter load of
work? When aware of his intention to change
for England, Michael had done to the proposal to direct his firm
architecture. The type of work would be completely different than
it did in Amsterdam. But how long would feel encouraged with the
news?
the other hand, wanted to take their time just for yourself. Wish I
could be
devote to other things besides work. Wanted time to live, travel,
perhaps. Maybe? This was the problem. Did not know if there was
one thing I wanted to do, especially.
Angry, put out his cigarette and took off his shoes. It was a
strange feeling, not completely dominate the situation. Michael
wanted a response to the New Year. That issue needed to be
carefully thought out, and here he was trying to do just that, but
irresistibly distracted, thinking of Lorna Stewart.
They would have a case, of course. Probably she knew it as well

as he. The attraction was mutual, each time their eyes had
crossed that day, it appeared evident. He knew the routine. Also
knew I had to take time, wait longer than usual because of the
bad start they had had.
If she had no experience with women, might think she was
disinterested. In fact, had been intrigued by her reaction when
approached during the party. Seemed incredibly scared. However,
received him very well in the quarter, despite sending him home
early. Even so, they began to understand. So why she was so
distressed when they were close to each other at the door? Yes,
there was no doubt. He had seen the anguish in his eyes.
Anton smiled slightly. What eyes had stupendous that woman! So
clear, so green, so expressive and seductive, because of the long
eyelashes that sometimes concealed! How had a seductive way
to download them, to look away. It was really beautiful,
fascinating. He walked with elegance, with dignity, grace and sat
with crossed legs as beautiful with such charm, that would be able
to turn the head of a man.
Definitely charming! And he did not mind being a little fascinated
by it. His attitude was inconsistent in a certain kind of game that
some women like to play. And why not! He enjoyed these views of
femininity, he enjoyed the thrill of the hunt. Considering their first
meeting and the shock of seeing him there, so unexpectedly, it
could hardly expect a different reaction. There was her pride to
consider and perhaps it was classified as Karel, a sort of playboy.
Anton smiled at the thought. Certainly appreciated the other sex.
But he was not a womanizer!
Eagerly await the coming weeks. No, the next few months. Who
knows if this would last a whole year? Or more? Would
a very slow start, but he knew, felt

that the mysterious Ms. Stewart would be part of your life for a
long time.
- Your eyes are so expressive, speaking through his mouth. Not
know that?
- No, and I'm sure you're exaggerating! SIDC must have a
hunch ... or you are particularly observer. I do not know which
the two. - Lorna was genuinely
fun. It was amazing how easy it was talking to him, especially in
view
the panic he felt when, just before he had approached her in the
room.
Despite being alone with Anton in the room, felt safe, first
because I knew he was not personally interested in it, and then
because he had arrived
the conclusion that Anton was a gentleman, a true gentleman.
He could have left it to make a fool of myself in front of Roger,
when thought was going to invite her to dance. But he did none.
Neither said anything that increases their distress to be presented
that morning. And how to meet them at the home of Karel ...
- Why do not you tell me who it was when we met at the home of
Karel? - She asked. - This is, I know what state I was, but you
could have accounted
everything before I leave.
His smile was malicious.
- Before you leave? You mean before he had shaken the
foundations of the building?
- Could be. - She smiled without embarrassment to remember
how
knocked the door. - So why not tell me who he was?
I tried. But control of the situation escaped from my hands.

Reached a point where it was useless I tell you. Especially with

Karel abroad.
Lorna smiled at him. In some corner of your mind, mistrusted that
first meeting that the man was not the photographer
fashions, womanizer, who was
for. Anton did not fit the description or that Cathy had Karel, nor
with that room, that room where they had met horrible. Should
I listened to your inner voice. The problem is that he was too
angry to listen to anything, including Anton.
- So his silence was out of kindness - said slowly. - You do not
want to increase my frustration counting that Karel was in Africa.
Did not want to make me feel stupid, after all the abuse that I
made.
- Oh, were not so bad. - Anton tried to lessen the severity of the
incident. - Unless you told me I was old enough to be father of
Cathy. - Seeing the embarrassment of Lorna, he raised his hand:
- Do not worry. thirty-six years, I theoretically old enough to be
father of a girl of nineteen. But this is a depressing thought!
Lorna rose. It was time to end that conversation.
- So I want to apologize twice for making him feel so old and
throughout the episode.
- It is not necessary. - He smiled. - I am glad that clear the air.
He also stood up. It was clear that she wanted to send him away.
- He knew what ... what happened to Cathy? - Lorna asked as he
walked to the door.
- Karel called and told me. She is his half-sister, is not it? The
different names ...
- Yes
He shook his head slightly and suddenly felt Lorna again the
disturbance that it caused physical proximity to it. He tried to

control, not wanting her panic became apparent. Did not want to
spoil things now that she had finally achieved a good relationship
with Anton. After all, would be in his company until the New Year,
or a whole week.
- Let me give you some advice - Anton said. - Clearly
you worry too much about Cathy. It is not a child, and make their
own mistakes in life as each one of us. Lorna gave a deep sigh in
agreement.
- She has told me not to meddle in his life.
- Do not blame you for that. His intentions were the best, just
trying to protect her. But it is the guardian of his sister, Lorna.
- You are right. - She shrugged and opened the door. - Thank you
for coming to see me. Good night.
- Actually, I ... - Anton stopped, said good night and not con plete
the sentence.
He crossed the hall and went to his own room. He threw his jacket
on the bed and sat in a chair. A minute later get up again and
grabbed a pack of cigarettes.
Needed to think.
Was in love with her. Since October, when found, not stopped
thinking about it one day, and there were few women who had this
effect on him. The party had lost the favor when he learned that
she went to sleep. Do not come back down, also did not like
parties. They bored him.
"We change when you get older," she thought, recalling the
comments of Michael on his dedication to work. Not true. No
more. His first job out of college in England outside the firm of
Summers. The work there was still innovative, but even in those
days ... well, Michael had put in check, telling him politely that he
was far ahead of his time.

And here he was now in a position to replace Summers and do

things his way. It was an interesting idea, but it was everything.
Had reached the maximum of his career, had a firm success in his
homeland, until recently decided to sell it. She was pushing her
away slowly
acting more as a consultant until the contracts are still pending to
be resolved. And then he would
free.
Anton knew and loved England as much as he loved and knew
the Netherlands. He thought of Lorna, living in Windsor, and
smiled
the idea. He had studied at Eton and
therefore aware of Windsor, a neighboring city such as the palm
of your hand. What remained of his family was divided between
the countries. Always intended to return to England, though he
had set a deadline. But neither could guess that would change the
discontent that would begin to grow inside of a year ago.
Will his return to England would be sufficient to mitigate this
feeling or, as Michael said, would be bored with a lighter load of
work? When aware of his intention to change
for England, Michael had done to the proposal to direct his firm
architecture. The type of work would be completely different than
it did in Amsterdam. But how long would feel encouraged with the
news?
the other hand, wanted to take their time just for yourself. Wish I
could be
devote to other things besides work. Wanted time to live, travel,
perhaps. Maybe? This was the problem. Did not know if there was
one thing I wanted to do, especially.
Angry, put out his cigarette and took off his shoes. It was a

strange feeling, not completely dominate the situation. Michael

wanted a response to the New Year. That issue needed to be
carefully thought out, and here he was trying to do just that, but
irresistibly distracted, thinking of Lorna Stewart.
They would have a case, of course. Probably she knew it as well
as he. The attraction was mutual, each time their eyes had
crossed that day, it appeared evident. He knew the routine. Also
knew I had to take time, wait longer than usual because of the
bad start they had had.
If she had no experience with women, might think she was
disinterested. In fact, had been intrigued by her reaction when
approached during the party. Seemed incredibly scared. However,
received him very well in the quarter, despite sending him home
early. Even so, they began to understand. So why she was so
distressed when they were close to each other at the door? Yes,
there was no doubt. He had seen the anguish in his eyes.
Anton smiled slightly. What eyes had stupendous that woman! So
clear, so green, so expressive and seductive, because of the long
eyelashes that sometimes concealed! How had a seductive way
to download them, to look away. It was really beautiful,
fascinating. He walked with elegance, with dignity, grace and sat
with crossed legs as beautiful with such charm, that would be able
to turn the head of a man.
Definitely charming! And he did not mind being a little fascinated
by it. His attitude was inconsistent in a certain kind of game that
some women like to play. And why not! He enjoyed these views of
femininity, he enjoyed the thrill of the hunt. Considering their first
meeting and the shock of seeing him there, so unexpectedly, it
could hardly expect a different reaction. There was her pride to
consider and perhaps it was classified as Karel, a sort of playboy.

Anton smiled at the thought. Certainly appreciated the other fri.

But he was not a womanizer!
Eagerly await the coming weeks. No, the next few months. Who
knows if this would last a whole year? Or more? Would
a very slow start, but he knew, felt
that the mysterious Ms. Stewart would be part of your life for a
long time.
Once you walk in silence for some time, Anton looked at her.
Tell me about you, Lorna. Hey, calm - said immediately
to realize that she was angry. - I am sincerely interested.
I'm not playing Cassie.
- I know. But is that ... you must find me very strange.
- Yes - he admitted, smiling. - But also mysterious.
- What the hell am I doing here? Here at Lions - she blurted. - I
want to go home right now. And to think that could be there in less
than an hour ...
- Wow, I do not feel very appreciated! Think of Eve, by
less!
- Sorry. - She smiled. - I'm thinking about Eve and her parents.
Are great people, was very kind of them inviting me. But I feel like
a fish out of water.
- If the console is, I also feel a bit like that.
- You? You know the Summers for life, for all I know.
- Not all my life. Michael gave me my first job when I left university
and since then we are close friends. I have the impression that he
considers me as a kind of son he never had.
- You went to university in England?
- Cambridge.
- It's probably why I speak English so well.
- I speak? Thank you, ma'am. But I'm here partly because of

business, and partly because I was invited. But, between us,

would rather be elsewhere.
- I understand. We are a couple of ungrateful, huh?
- But it's our secret. And no one will be offended because we keep
secret.
- Who are you, Anton? - She asked, suddenly curious.
- What likes and dislikes?
The beautiful and warm brown eyes lit up.
- This is exactly what I want to tell me about you. Look, there is a
bank, let's sit.
Lorna liked, had walked a lot that day.
- Very well - she began, when they settled. - I have twenty-five
years and give much importance to my career. Felina is my life
and I ...
- Felina?
- Is the name of my shop.
- Name choice. The idea was yours?
- Of course.
- Forgive me - he joked, - Continue.
- I like to drive on roads, but not in cities. I like to travel by train,
but sick on buses. I like to walk in the rain, but not when it's windy.
I like to work,
but not at home. I like to read but do not have enough time. I love
theater, especially musical mind. I like to watch old movies on
television. Saw Casablanca
three times and The Sound of Music five times. Four times I've
seen in movies. Que tal? .
- So you're romantic?
- No way - she responded promptly.
- Men like to dream sometimes?

- It's not what everyone does?

- Yes, that's what everyone does.
- Now it's your turn - Lorna asked, lowering his gaze. It was
happening again, that affliction with the proximity of it. She
dropped her arm, without noticing, to get away from it. Anton
noticed, but did not care.
- Very well - he began. - Driving: I do not like or dislike. My job is
getting to me more a burden than pleasure. As you know, I want
to work less. Working from home do not know if I like, because I
never did. I love to read, but do not have as much time as you
like, but now want to read more. Do not watch TV. I like all kinds
of music as well as theater and cinema. I saw Casablanca twice,
but never seen The Sound of Music. Maybe you take me the next
time you pass the cinema? How! We have much in common?
Lorna laughed.
- Not bad! Will you marry me?
- Today?
- No, that will be tomorrow. Today is Christmas Day. He laughed.
- I also like ... - The two talked at the same time.
- Go ahead - invited him.
- I also like people with sense of humor.
- It was exactly what I would say. - Suddenly the two were serious
and Lorna looked at her watch.
- There is no hurry. Just can not be late for lunch. Anton remained
serious. - Lorna, I went to London last week. I tried to talk to you
before coming here. Of course their number was not on the list
with the name Brenner.
- I was not even.
I found the phone to her sister, but nobody answered. Would ask
her your number. Karel also was not at home. Should be

traveling. He traveled with Cathy?

- No, they are not together. Why ... you tried to talk to me na3
week? - She was confused. - Why talk to me, anyway?
The response was casual.
- I thought it would be nice dinner together and clarify everything.
The misunderstanding. I thought we would end up laughing about
what had happened. And you can imagine
my surprise when you appeared. Indeed, a great surprise.
Lorna had to think before responding, but at that moment was too
busy criticizing herself for her stupidity. He knew that men found
her attractive and that was something that could not change. But
it was not pretentious and did not believe that all were interested
in it. However, Anton was interested. Otherwise, why he wanted to
take her to dinner? Now it was clear to her that her kindness had
other reasons. I honestly had not thought of it as a potential
problem.
- I better tell you a few more things about me said, finally. - I'm not
interested in dining with you. The answer would be not. And Cathy
did not give him my phone number. I'm not interested in men in
general.
He was not a little shaken.
- So there is no man in her life.
- No. And I'm not interested in having one, period. Anton smiled.
- Well, the reasons are not my account. But I confess that you are
a mystery to me. We can be friends, just friends?
Lorna was undecided, really. Could not deny that I liked him but ...
- I see no reason for it.
- It's a pity you already have so many friends, that does not need
any more.

He managed to leave her embarrassed. Was very conscious of

their disbelief in relation to men, but that there ... Maybe it was
sincere and wanted their friendship and nothing more. A man like
Anton could have the woman he chose and it was evident that he
knew it.
- I. .. no. I have many friends. I suspect that I am very anti-social.
He could not take her eyes off her face. That pretty girl, that
character, so easy to talk with both a sense of humor! Why would
anti-social? Why not interested in men? Felt he was sincere.
Something inside him told him that she did not want to play the
difficult. His interest increased. I wanted to be her friend.
- Want to have lunch with me tomorrow, Lorna? We may run for
several hours.
- You are inviting me to ... out? How can we do that? I thought I
had said that we should not be unkind. What Sir Michael think?
- Do not worry about it. Tomorrow is a special day. In any case, I
told Michael it would have to leave. Come with me and have lunch
together.
- No, I. .. Thank you, but no. - Lorna rose. Let's go back now.
Should be concerned with ourselves.
Anton did not insist. Gave her arm and returned home together.
Lorna felt confused, sad. He had refused the invitation, when in
fact want to accept. I thought it would be pointless to go out with
Anton Van der Buren, but then get rid of the company of
Cassandra for an entire day was tempting. No, that was it. Who
thought he was kidding? I was terrified with Anton, that was the
truth.
- Do you have fear, Lorna?
- I do not know who is speaking. - She stopped, knowing full well
that it was impossible that he had read his thoughts.

- It's me? - His face was serious, his eyes worried.

- It can not be me. I am offering you friendship, that's all. Do not
treat me like I was a Don Juan just because of what happened
between my cousin and his sister.
- Not at all - she answered quickly. Was being sincere. Anton
would not judge the actions of his cousin, and did not want him to
condemn the actions of Cathy.
- Okay, so tell me why you're scared. And tell me why do not you
come with me tomorrow.
- Well ... I accept. Satisfied?
- Delighted! - He exclaimed.
They did not speak any more. Lorna thought it was ridiculous to
make a case because of a simple invitation to lunch. But in their
hearts a battle happened, and she was not sure yet if had won or
lost by agreeing to go out with Anton.
In the middle of the night, she found herself waiting for an
opportunity to speak alone with Anton, tell him that he had
changed his mind. But he had that opportunity. Because of the
terrible fog, came less guests than expected and the conversation
became general. He went to his room at the same time that Mrs..
Collingham and was already taking off their clothes when
someone knocked at the door.
- It's me! Eve I can talk a minute with you, Lorna? Lorna opened
the door, smiling.
- You complain that I go away again? - Asked.
.- No - Eve said, sitting up in bed. - Today was a failure, due to
time. I came to apologize because of the behavior of Cassandra,
this morning. My cousin can be a pest sometimes.
- And a snob, too - said Lorna.
- Oh, yes, that too. But I do not know a thing, Lorna. She was

looking down on you Anton. Of course got exactly the opposite.

You fought it well. I was proud.
- Thank you. But why all this?
- You know, she's mad at Anton. And, despite his genius, men
usually get what you want. Cassie has a boyfriend, but not
brought because he knew that Anton would too. You're holding up
her game and she did this out of pure jealousy.
- But why ...
- Because she followed Anton last night. He went to his room and
not find him. You had left an hour before ...
- She thought that Anton was with me? - Lorna asked, his face
glowing as he recalled that Anton had been precisely to her.
Fortunately Eve misinterpreted flushing.
- I know, I know. Only met yesterday. I know who you are, but ...
- But Cassandra does not know. And it seems that she is very
interested in knowing who spent the night with whom.
- I agree. In any case, she came to talk about their suspicions and
I said to take care of your life.
- Great.
- And I'm trying to do the same thing, but I can not enjoy myself
knowing that Anton will take you to lunch tomorrow, especially
since you say that is not interested in him.
Lorna's heart sank. Now it was too late to cancel lunch. It thought
that Anton would say something, and if changed his mind, it would
seem a fool.
- Yes I ... I'll have lunch with him. But do not be imagining things.
- Of course not - Eve said, laughing.
- Get out. - Lorna laughed too. - And stop teasing me.
- I will not say anything ... just do not blame her. It will be a blow to
Cassie.

- There was something between Cassie and Anton? The past.

- No. They met several years ago, when Anton spent a week
here. And in October he was a week in London working in the
office of my father,
discussing business. Lorna Anton just ask me something about
you, and I did not know
response.
- What?
- If in the past someone gave out. If someone hurt. Lorna sighed,
but said nothing. It was perfectly understandable
he did a question like that, because of their suspicious manner.
- Lorna, do not want to be nosy, but ... - Eve was silent.
- Okay, I could never accuse her of being nosy. The answer is
yes, someone will one day hurt me a lot.
- Good night, Lorna. - Eve left without further comment. Lorna
locked the door and then leaned heavily against it.
His hands trembled. All day long, or at least until the tour with
Anton, Jake Dougan had been in his thoughts. Was he the man
who struck him. Although not in the way that Eve thought. He
brushed his teeth and went to bed, too exhausted to swim. But he
could not sleep. For the first time, did not attempt to remove Jake
from his mind. For the first time, allowed herself to remember the
distant past, him, his mother. Perhaps you think about all that
again could restore his sense of balance, put things in order.
Jean, his mother had been a beautiful woman. But before he died
was very aged. His illness was a mixture of depression and
exhaustion. Where there had been a man in your life. Although
Lorna did not understand why his mother always might need a
man, and always attracted the wrong man. Married the father of
Cathy when Lorna was five. Before him, another man had lived

with the two, but Lorna did not remember him well.
Cathy was born a year after the marriage and the family moved to
town because Thomas Brenner said he had a job waiting for you.
But a year later he was arrested for theft and Jean only learned of
his activities when the police came to take him. Jean worked part
of the day as a waitress. It was a fool, holding his men, cooking
and washing for them. But it was not stupid enough to wait for the
release of Thomas Brenner. He fled with the girls to Newcastle.
Then he met two men in the tavern where he worked, and they
treated her badly, borrowing money and eating
at your expense. One of them went to live with them, but only
lasted six months.
This was followed by a quiet period when there was no man in the
life of Jean. But when Lorna was ten, his mother knew
Jake Dougan and all moved to
Manchester. Jake worked on the railroad and Lorna felt that the
fact he made it work better than others, although he was an
alcoholic and gambler. Most of the time he ignored the two
daughters of Jean.
After some years he was fired and every time he drank more.
Jean started work at lunch time and supper, and by this time that
he was
ill. It was also around this time that Jake started to pay attention to
Lorna in a way that frightened her. On nights when he was not
going to the tavern where Jean worked, sat at home drinking.
Lorna was afraid of him, the way he looked, how they suddenly
appeared when she was undressing for bed or hugged in a
manner supposedly joyous, feeling his body.

I was thirteen when he attacked her. Jean was in hospital for

several weeks with pneumonia.
Every detail of that day and night was etched indelibly
in memory of Lorna.
It was the first week of January and she was on vacation. They
lived on the seventh floor of a building falling apart. The rent was
not paid for several weeks and the collector
had visited that day, arguing with Jake, complaining of neglect of
the apartment. Then Jake went out and returned drunk.
Lorna was in bed with Cathy, who was fast asleep. He heard the
door close, then the shuffling footsteps of Jake and something
breaking in the next room. He called for her twice, his voice
slurred.
- Lorna! Lorna, come on, come help me.
She was so scared I did not think to disobey. More than once
heard him beating his mother when he was drunk, more than
once he hit her and Cathy wrong. Jake found half sitting, half lying
on the kitchen floor, one hand cut off, blood running, and the other
holding a bottle of whiskey.
- Get me a drink, anything! Hurry!
Thinking that his main concern was to save the drink, Lorna
poured into a mug who put on a shelf.
- Wait a minute, his bastard! - He cried when he realized that she
was going back to bed. - Help me up. Get yourself something to
wrap in my hand. - He put his hand under the cold tap, eyes
closed in pain.
Innocently, Lorna said they had no bandages at home.
Had he used his brains out, had returned to the room and torn
into strips the pillow or anything else, maybe all ended there.
Maybe not.
Closing his eyes, Lorna trembled violently finding interesting that
people still remembered so well from noise and smells like Jake
remembered the touching of
horror I felt. First was the sound of ripping his shirt when he
grabbed her by the neck. Then it was the sight of blood on his

hand, running down his chest, a long line. She remembered

perfectly the look of it when he saw her breasts were beginning to
blossom. And his laughter, hoarse, horrible, drunk!
He got up, cursing when she began to scream as loud as his
lungs would allow, giving him kicking and punching. At that
moment his memory is muddied a bit, because he started beating
her with such violence that she was momentarily blinded. Was
thrown on the couch, naked and petrified to realize his intention.
Jake knelt beside her, one hand raised as to threaten not to
scream, the other forcing his way between his legs.
He did not rape her, really. Neither came close, but abominably
abused her and hit her repeatedly with a belt. And all the while
swearing Jean, resmugando something about blame her for being
sick.
Lorna did not remain silent. She screamed and fought with all his
might. But it was the intoxication of Jake who saved ... and Cathy,
No outsider came to their rescue. Where they lived cries and
fights were not uncommon. But Cathy entered the room in tears,
the grief of his seven years screaming
loudly:
- Stop it! Stop it, Jake! Do not hurt Lorna, Jake!
It was enough. Gave Lorna a few seconds to get rid of it. He did
not remember that he had struck, but I knew it was something
heavy, she took a table nearby. If it were not so drunk, it would be
sprawled on the floor. The neighbors had not championed but she
gathered and Cathy when they ask for help. .
Disturbed, Lorna got up from bed and opened the window, but
closed it after. He had forgotten the fog. Also featured in the right
breast
a small scar,
the teeth marks of Jake tearing your skin. Yes, she had been too
damaged in the past.
But the past was the past and tried not to forget that, although the
attack was Jake in the fire in your mind. He tried to make it not

affect your opinion of men in general. Failed sometimes, as in

pregnancy Cahy blamed only when Karel.
62
But memories of that night had not helped to understand
his mixed feelings about Anton Van der Buren.
In no way did he remember Jake. So why the panic
I felt sometimes when I was with him? This was usually
pigeon peas before he was a man who seemed physically with
her attacker, which was rare.
Could not understand why at times he was afraid of Anton,
especially knowing that he was a gentleman. In no way could be
compared to
Jake Dougan. So, why this happened?
CHAPTER VI
- A house? You did not tell me. - They were in the car Anton,
leaving the Lions. He had said he needed to leave, but it was to
see a house.
- Do you mind, Lorna? It will take more than an hour.
- Absolutely! I love to see homes!
- Really? - He laughed. - The house is in Hampshire, and
compared to that of Michael is a hut.
The day was very cold but clear. Lorna felt good next to that big
strong man.
- What kind of home you have in mind?
- If I did, I even design my house. What I have in mind is more a
feeling than an actual picture. I'm sure I recognize the right house
at the time to come.
She knew exactly what he meant.
- And if you do not find the right house?
- Then I have to invent it.
- Are you looking specifically for a certain area?
- No. Any place within a radius of sixty miles
serve.

- This means that decided to accept the offer of Summers?

- No. It means I want to live in the countryside, but close to town. I
will not drive the firm of Michael. That is what two of us were
discussing this morning, in the library.
No doubt out why Cassandra returned to London, and also
because they probably could not stand the attention that Anton
was giving Lorna. But it would appear again for the engagement
party.
- It will not make any comment, Lorna?
- About what?
- I have more free time when I move to England.
- This hardly affect me, the fact that you accept or reject the offer
of Sir Michael.
- Ah, but if I live near London - he said, smiling able to drive to
Windsor to take my new friend for dinner.
- Do you have a friend in ... oh, talking about me? - When he gave
that smirk, Lorna decided it was time to clarify the facts. - Listen,
Anton, when this week end, not see each other again. You go
back to your world and I to mine.
I told you, I'm not interested.
He slowed down the car and left the main road, picking up a
secondary, his face impassive.
- Sorry, did not hear what you said. I was too busy with the curve.
Lorna looked at him determined not to show that it had laughed
outright lie. They stopped in front of a house with beautiful
gardens around.
- No. .. I think it is not so - said Anton. - But we have to visit it as a
matter of courtesy, because they are waiting for us. This is the
seventh house that I see.
A woman who answered the door greeted them kindly.
- Nice to meet you, Mrs.. Vari der Buren ...
Lorna looked distressed for Anton, hoping that he undid the evil - Understood, but it raised an eyebrow and smiled.
They did not see the upper deck. It was a huge house, at least by
the standards of Lorna. Politely, Anton told the woman that would

not look at anything else.

- It's a beautiful house - he said - but not really what we are
looking for.
In ten minutes they were back in the car and the first thing that
Anton did was hold the hand of Lorna, despite their resistance.
- Why did you say that? - She protested. - That was not what we
were looking for?
- Is that why you took the gloves? To show that it had alliance?
- Yes - she admitted, angry. - Want to drop my hand, please?
He lifted her hand to her lips, just as she had when found two
days ago. Lorna remained impassive.
- You certainly know how to make a man feel good quipped Anton.
Had lunch in a beautiful restaurant, twenty minutes from the
house they had just visited. Then they took coffee and brandy in a
cozy little bar with a huge fireplace. For the first time in more than
two hours, there was silence between them. A pleasant silence.
Lorna was watching the fire, delighted that today it was a rare
thing, a charcoal fire. He was perfectly
comfortable, a little sleepy.
- I like to see faces in the ... - He stopped when lifting his gaze
surprised Anton watching her with a strange expression.
- Something wrong, Anton?
- No - he murmured, almost inaudibly. Then louder: No, nothing.
Would you like to see faces in the coals. You know, I have two
dogs.
- What? - She asked puzzled.
- Sorry, I was remembering. I have a couple of German
shepherds.
- Oh, I like dogs! Never had one, of course. If you want to bring
their own, have to be quarantined, is not it? You will bring them to
England, right?
- Sure. They are already in quarantine. - Pez a gesture calling the
waiter. - Another brandy, Lorna? That house was a beautiful
chaos, no? Because of the children. Do you like children?

Lorna raised his arms and gave a jolly laugh.

- Wait a minute, let me guess ... This is a kind of interrogation? Or
you're jumping from one subject to another, following his thoughts
and trying to test my psychic abilities?
- The last. I apologize.
- Okay. Since I know what I'm facing, fine. No - said, raising his
fingers. - Thank you, I do not want another brandy. Yes, the house
was chaotic, at least in the room. But it is to be expected when
you have two boys are upset because the flu. Yes, I love kids, and
you tell me now that he has two also quarantined, along with their
dogs, right?
- Wrong. - Anton was now serious. - Why never asked me if I am
married?
- Because for me it's the same.
- I despair of you, Lorna., Can not at least feign interest?
- Okay. - She laughed. - But I will not waste time on the question.
It's obvious that you're single.
- My God! Am I so transparent?
He agreed with a slight head and smiled at him. No, it was not
transparent. All I knew is that it was a persuasive and charming
man. He was
laugh and feel interesting. Does finally Anton was a womanizer? I
could not help feeling suspicious, was part of his nature. He had
not given any false step, but felt that was not only behind
friendship. And, even if it meant losing your time.
I can not explain why, but when Anton helped her dress
coat, that terrible feeling of panic dominated. It was the first time
that day. It happened when she turned to him after he put the
jacket
on his shoulders. He felt his cheeks burn when he looked up to
him, so loud, so strong and attractive.
- I. .. I forgot the gloves on the chair - he said, feeling foolish,
frightened and flushed.
- I'll pick them up.
The moment passed quickly, helped by the fact that Anton did not

seem to have known nothing of his sudden discomfort. Within

minutes she was again controlled. He even fell asleep during the
trip back.
Anton stopped the car in the back of the house. Took pity to wake
her, seemed so quiet and so beautiful. He continued with his
hands on the wheel, resisting the temptation to slide
fingers on the soft skin of his face, fighting the desire to take her
in his arms. It was not easy, but I knew that Lorna would not enjoy
now what he had in mind. Just do not know why it was so.
Why, when the physical attraction between them was so strong,
she panicked every time he came very close? Panic was not a
strong enough word. Just now, the bar, turns her eyes in fear, and
not the first time. But why, why she would fear him?
- Thank you, Lorna! - Eve looked in the mirror, pleased.
- The hair was spectacular. I put hair spray?
- A little bit. - Lorna spent the last half hour combing Eve, and the
result was positive. - Vista now the dress, so I see it.
Helped her friend to come in the beautiful red dress and laughed
when Eve greeted her warmly.
- You're incredible, Lorna. I'm really spectacular!
- His, modesty is touching. Is I who should praise you - joked
Lorna. - Go now. Your guests should be arriving.
Lorna returned to the room. Had not yet begun to dress for the
party. After painting and combing, looked indecisive for the black
dress lying in bed. It was chiffon, very simple. Perfect for a party
that night. The problem is that it was a little too revealing, the
handles were thin, the neckline and down, and should use it
without a bra.
Dressed and looked in the mirror. I had no doubts about the
dress.
It was beautiful and made her beautiful. But I was wondering what

effect that would result in Anton ...

Cassandra was the first person with whom Lorna said, when he
came. Had brought her boyfriend, tall and elegant, and visibly in
love with her. After the brief presentation, Lorna excused herself
and went to room, amused by the hostility of Cassie.
There were people everywhere, very well dressed, creating a
refined atmosphere, different from that Lorna was used. They had
hired a small set to liven up the party. Undoubtedly, the
atmosphere would warm up soon.
Was fascinated with everything. He talked with people who met at
Christmas and was introduced to many others, including parents
of Julian, he enjoyed much more than expected. The atmosphere
of Christmas was still in the air and magnificent tree, with its
colored lights, lending a nostalgic air to the hall.
Was sitting next to Mrs.. Collingham when Anton appeared.
- Ah, there is Anton - said the old lady. - It is not wonderful?
There was no exaggeration in that statement. Like most of the
guests, he wore tuxedos, but Anton ... what did Anton stand in the
midst of so many people? His height, his confidence, his
incredibly charming smile?
The truth is that I could not take my eyes off him. He was walking
toward her and she could not stop looking at it. It was he who
looked away first, examining it from top to bottom.
- Wonderful! - Muttered as he took her hand to her lips. Lorna was
so used to the gesture that would have been disappointed if he
did not. Then he turned to Mrs.. Collingham. - Mary, you are also
beautiful.
The old lady smiled delighted and told him what had just said
Lorna.
- What do we do with it, Lorna? - Anton smiled. - Only with a glass

of champagne Mary is already in this animation.

- Nor do I think - Lorna replied in the same tone, while Mrs..
Collingham laughed, delighted. - Instead of accompanying her to
the bedroom, may have to charge it!
- You are not drinking anything, Lorna? Want me to go get
something? - Anton asked, and she said that he preferred. As he
walked away, followed him with his eyes.
- An exceptional man, no? - Said Mrs.. Collingham.
- Yes, yes, it is. Him .. he seems not to take anything seriously ...
- Do not believe it - the old woman said in such a tone that Lorna
turned to her. - It's an iron fist in velvet gloves, ask Michael if you
want to know more. Anton is a very determined man, but hide
under a calm appearance. Michael likes him too. - Yes, I got it.
And I do not know anything about it.
- But of course he wants - she continued, without shaking. - And
he is also very interested in you. Can not say I do not understand!
- It is still as high as it seems, is not it? - Lorna laughed.
- Do not tell anyone. I have an excuse to go to bed at eleven.
That's exactly what she did. Lady Summers accompanied her to
the room when the party followed in full swing. Sir Michael made
a short speech announcing the engagement of Julian and Eve,
the champagne flowed on the loose, people danced.
Lorna was talking with some friends of Eve, when Anton came
near her. Both had circulated among the various groups, but she
knew that this moment
was inevitable. When he invited her to dance, excused himself to
others and accepted.
- I waited so long - he murmured. - Damn, should have chosen a
better time!

Lorna felt great. The music had changed and all played a more
hectic pace, forcing them to dance apart. When, some time later,
they moved again, Lorna excused.
- You are running away from me? - Anton complained.
- Yes
- Do not know how to dance slow song? Much too young to learn
to dance?
- No.
- So is running away from me.
- Yes - She went to a corner and accepted a glass of champagne
that one of the waitresses gave him, trying to stay serious. Anton,
at his side, looked at her without saying anything.
- Do me the honor, beautiful lady? - Roger asked, appearing
suddenly.
Lorna looked to Roger Anton, gave the cup to Anton and Roger
followed until the middle of the room. The idea of dancing glued to
Roger not pleased, but dance stuck Anton decidedly frightened
her. However, even in the arms of Roger, I could not take my eyes
off Anton.
- I quit! - Roger said after the first song. It may be that my sister
does not know when he lost it all, but I know. What Anton is that I
have?
- I would not be so sure about her sister - Lorna commented upset
when he saw Cassie dancing with Anton.
The night went quiet for a time she lost sight of Anton. Where
Cassie would have taken? It was more than an hour in the
morning and Lorna dancing with Sir
Reappeared when Michael Anton. Hit the back of the old friend.
- I think this dance is mine, Michael.
- You want to dance with me, Anton? - Michael joked. - I did not

know he was interested in me.

Lorna laughed merrily. There used to drink the champagne had
gone to his head.
- Michael, take your hands off that woman. Lorna and I agreed
that after an hour would dance all the music together
- Yes, Lorna?
- Of course not!
- So go away, Anton. Did not see when it is desired? For
centuries, I do not have so much fun! Lorna dance divinely.
Anton then whispered something into the ear of old, who
immediately let go.
Lorna soon found himself in the arms of Anton, without having
time to react.
- What did you say to him?
- He said his wife was looking for - Anton replied, making an
innocent face.
- And she is right?
- Of course not!
As was great dancing with him! I was loving it, but continued to
pretend boredom.
- You do not have scruples?
- Very little - he muttered, pulling her closer. When I want
something, I will forget.
- And care to tell me what you want exactly? He shrugged slightly
broad shoulders.
- Nothing sinister, my beautiful green eyes, so I need not look so
suspicious. I want you to spend the day
New Year's with me and show me Windsor.
- But ...
- Ah, no excuses! I know Felina is closed on New Year's, and I

know that you leave in the morning. I asked Eve

- But you do not need me as your guide! And certainly have
stayed in Windsor!
- Never. - It was a lie, but necessary. - I never saw the castle
except slightly from the road. I'm sure you will find it interesting.
As an architect.
- Oh, absolutely yes. - Lorna was very proud of Windsor Castle
and thought that Anton appreciate the place as much as she. But
the answer is no. I have to work on New Year's.
- Bullshit!
- The answer is still no.
- Listen - he said, sounding offended - please do not say no ... say
maybe.
- This seems an old song.
- Do not change the subject.
- Okay, okay! - God of heaven, that man did not accept no for an
answer. So, she agreed with the might.
Soon they were dancing and laughing. Lorna rested his head on
his shoulder, feeling happy and perfectly calm despite the
proximity. But that feeling did not last and the sinister panic began
to overcome it. He was tense, unable to look at Anton. Was afraid
of making a fool of myself.
- Calm down, dear - Anton muttered, his lips very close to his ear.
She could feel the warmth of your breath, the beat of his heart. I
wanted to run away to escape it, but only managed to keep him a
little.
The savage beating of his heart echoing in his ears, but the sense
of panic was mixed with something else and it took a few seconds
to figure out what it was. He felt that could burst into tears at any
moment and needed to move away from Anton as soon as

possible.
- Please ... - Whispered. - Anton, drop me, please. I. .. is so hot in
here! I need a little air.
Immediately he let go, but his hands held her arms while she
pressed his palms against his face.
- Lorna, what is?
- Nothing, I just ... - Then their eyes met. She saw the concern in
deep brown eyes and saw the expression on his face changed as
he examined her face, then he noticed a vein throbbed at the
base of the neck.
- Come on. - Anton took between people and Lorna needed all the
strength to walk pretending calm, instead of running away as it
was his will. He released his hand and turned, trying to smile.
- Thanks, I'm fine now. Good night.
- Lorna ...
- Good night, Anton. Please do not come after me.
He let her go, cursing in frustration, torn between the desire to go
behind it and the obligation to do what she asked. Was intrigued
by that behavior. Seen without a shadow of doubt as Lorna felt.
But I'd be really afraid of something, or was a master in the art to
seduce? Was probably a teacher, said. She provoked the whole
night, not provoked? Devil, thought and went after her.
But Lorna did not go to your room. I knew he would follow it and
went to the room of Eve, on the other side of the house. Even
before you get there the tears streamed down his face. Eve in the
bathroom, washed his face with cold water but to no avail.
Just realized that night what he felt for Anton. He was not afraid of
him. She wanted to! He was twenty-five years and never, never
felt such a thing before. No wonder it took so long to find out!
During all these years been convinced that there was no man who

could provoke such a reaction in it. Now, she wanted him

physically, and that was what was causing panic.
He felt dizzy and confused. Somewhere in his mind was satisfied
in knowing that it was not unusual, after all. Satisfied because the
terror she experienced
night with Jake had not irreparably damaged. But at the same
time, a part of your mind rejected Anton, the attraction he exerted
on it. The way to proceed for years could not be changed so
easily. Neither she wanted to change.
Stayed there for a long time, fighting his emotions, until she
realized what he had to do. I had to leave the house, Anton had to
flee and return to your world safe.
Not surprised to find it waiting in the room. He was angry and
embarrassed.
- Sorry for the smoke - he said, putting out the cigarette he had
been smoking. I waited a long time. - The tie was open and a
button of his shirt unbuttoned, his jacket thrown on the bed and he
disgustingly calm.
- Please - Lorna asked, still in the open door. - Get out.
- Close the door and feel.
- Anton.
- Do what I say - he showed a calm determination and she
obeyed. He sat on the edge of the bed, well away from him,
happy that the lamp barely illuminated his face.
- Okay, say what you say and get out.
- I will leave when the time comes. Come here. - He pointed to a
chair in front of him and again she obeyed. He saw the
expression on his face changed when he joined us.
- You were crying. - Lorna looked at the other side, feeling
ridiculous. - You were crying and I've been thinking a lot. But now

I have to think all over again. Unless you're willing to say why the
devil is afraid of me. Is that me?
- No - she said frankly. - I just want to get out of my life. I do not
want involvement of any kind. 've Told you a lot of times, but can
not seem to believe me. I'm serious, Anton. I know from
experience that when a man appears in someone's life, problems
arise. So leave me alone. I can not be clearer.
After a prolonged silence, he said.
- Lorna, you're making a game with me and I did not care a damn,
until an hour ago. I like the thrill of the hunt, as any man ...
- I do not know what you're talking! - She exclaimed, looking at
him first. - I'm not doing any game.
- Yes, yes. Perhaps not. Want. - Your eyes sparkled more, there
was no joy in them. There was only ... concern? You are as far as
I aware of the attraction that exists between us. Happened since
the first time we met at the home of Karel. Despite his indignation
and anger, she was there. You deny that?
- Yes
- After what happened to you when we were dancing? Lorna felt
her face burning. He could not deny, when
an hour his body was given the answer. Could not speak.
- Very good - Anton continued calm. - We are making progress. I
want you, Lorna. I came here tonight with the intention of taking
her to bed. I thought that what had happened while we were
dancing marked the end of the game. At least one phase. In that
case it would inevitably, was to begin. Sorry if I seem cynical, but
I'm not naive about the women ...
She was so angry that he forgot the embarrassment.
- Cynical! You seem too bold! My God, as you are. cold! Out! And
do not give me that story to be inevitable! Who do you think you

are?
- I'm being honest with you - he said, unperturbed.
- Honest! Two days ago you offered me your friendship and
nothing more!
- Yes, I still want your friendship. I love you, have not you noticed?
And this has nothing to do with the attraction I feel. So let's leave
sex out of it, okay? I await your decision, I give my word. Now that
I said exactly what I think, and I was perfectly honest, tell me what
you're afraid?
Confused, Lorna looked at him. It was like talking to another man,
not Anton she knew., Yes, he was being honest, and how she
might get angry? However, everything was so new to her, so
completely new, that he felt shaken.
- Please, Lorna? Why the tears? Why fled and hid, why are you
afraid of the attraction that exists between us?
- When she remained silent, Anton took his conclusions. Have
you had any novel that made her suffer? Something happened
recently and still a.machuca?
She did not know whether to smile or cry, did neither. She looked
at him quietly.
- You were in love ... or is in love with someone. Anton was still
uncertain, unable to answer. - You have been hurt, this is obvious,
Lorna! By
not tell me what is? Maybe I can help it.
Lorna felt terribly sad. He shook his head, realizing what was
about to cry again.
- I. .. maybe ... one day I tell. - She did not intend to tell, just
wanted to get rid of it. After that night, had no intention of seeing
him again. - Please go now. Go back to the party.
He held her hand and pulled her to stay standing.

- I'm not in the mood. going back to my room. Very gently, he took
her face in his hands, his fingers moving slowly in the face. Do not
cry anymore. Will you tell me everything I know, when the time
comes, baby. There is no hurry ... My God how beautiful you
are ... - He left her and went to get his jacket.
- Anton ...
- Yes?
- Please kiss me.
- Lorna, I do not ...
- No - she murmured, not a game. I just want you to kiss me.
Please!
He did not kiss her, only lightly touched his lips on hers. He had
given his word and not back.
Lorna knew I had done wrong, he might think she was teasing,
playing with fire. But once, just once, wanted to know what it was
like being kissed by Anton. Their reasons were entirely selfish,
just wanted to know how you feel.
The feeling of his lips touching lightly on hers was nice, and she
felt more confident. Without breaking the contact of their mouths,
came closer, his hands supporting the broad chest. In those few
seconds, he realized a lot of things. His hands shook slightly, and
they felt in the rhythm of the heart of Anton faster.
When his hands rested lightly on her back, she was not
frightened, though feeling very vulnerable. I knew I was safe, he
knew he was so controlled as her. Parted his lips, feeling the
warmth and firmness of it. His hands dropped to his back, holding
firmly his waist as he pulled her body closer and the kiss became
more passionate.
- I. .. do not be angry, Anton. Sorry.
It they will not hide his confusion. He smiled bitterly.

- I'm not angry, my pretty. Not at all. - Suddenly, the mood will
come back. - I'll tell you one thing. I never kissed so naive. At
least since I was twelve.
- Hold the coat over his shoulder, laughing though. - And I'll tell
you something else: never forget. Good evening, Lorna.
And then he was gone.
She saw him close the door carefully, and touched his lips with his
fingers. But the spell had been broken and sanity back soon. He
went to the bathroom and painted it again before descending to
seek Eve needed to say to her friend that would leave in the
morning. Any excuse.
CHAPTER VII
The apartment and the store were just as he had left. Lorna
arrived in mid-afternoon, went upstairs, looked around. A small
sign on the door warned
Feline that would open the next day. He preferred that the store
was open, it would have something to do. Why indeed was all
over in days, knew exactly what needed to buy in London next
week.
He turned on the lights and looked at everything, as if he
expected something was wrong. The store did not seem ... the
same. Neither the apartment. He had an inspiration: he would do
some cleaning.
He put on a pair of old pants, a mesh, and set to work. There was
little to do in the store because she was always kept immaculately
clean, and so concentrated in the apartment, washed the kitchen
and all the windows.
That helped a little and when I finally sat down in front of a cup of
tea in the middle of the night she scolded herself, for only then
realized that cleaning out symbolic. The apartment and the store
looked the same, it is that was different. He was different ... as if
he had returned from Hampshire with a new personality. And I
wanted to get rid of it ..

But could not it housecleaning. If that person does exist. I had to

try to be rational. One thing was certain: her intimate peace that
she so valued, had been broken. Anton. But not for long! From
that moment on she would remove from his thoughts.
He had not choice but to be honest with Eve At least when her
friend asked him if he had had a discussion with Anton, said that
yes, more or less.
- More or less? - Eve did not understand. - As well, Lorna?
- He is very ... very ...
- Insight?
- No. You know, Eve, actually I'm not interested. I evi t it, to be
honest.
- I do not understand anything. I know you like him, personally
can not deny, I think it's wonderful. Oh, I'm not talking about your
physical appearance. He has it all!
.- Perhaps clash of personalities. I want to leave before breakfast,
Eve do not want to see it again. My only concern is that their
parents do not misunderstand my departure.
- Do not worry about it - Eve reassured her. - I just tell you the
truth. They understand.
- No! Tell them and Anton ... Well, you could say I got a call from
Dulcie, stating that it is the flu. Will you do that?
- I imagine a good excuse. But I warn you: Anton will behind you.
- Get out. Made it very clear that I am not interested. Eve opened
her mouth to speak, but changed his mind.
- You're crazy - he said at last. - But he won. Tell a compelling
story to all.
Lorna washed the cup, decided not to eat anything, took a hot
bath and went to bed. But Anton Van der Buren was still in his
head at three in the morning.
Dulcie arrived at the store at five to ten, punctual as always.
- Lorna! What are you doing here? You are very upset. Are you all
right? " - And before Lorna answer, continued: - Life in Beverly
Hills, right? Booze, lots of food. Is this it?
- More or less. Everything was great, Dulcie, but comes to me.

Come on, the kettle is already on fire.

Inevitably, Dulcie asked about staying in Lions and Lorna told only
what he wanted her to know. Anton mentioned, but only in
passing. I could not stop talking about it, probably because Eve
tocaria.em your name in the future.
As soon as he could, and changed the subject asked Dulcie as
had been his Christmas. At about half past eleven were still
talking and no client had appeared.
- It seems that opening the store was a complete waste of time.
Sorry, Dulcie. Or you can go home.
- Thank you but I will stay. At least until four. To be honest, I'm
happy to return to work. My husband will take me to dance and
dine out today. Therefore, I have nothing to do at home.
- You get bored when it gets a lot of time at home, no?
- Yes, maybe if I had children was different.
Up to three hours, appeared some customers. They attended in
shifts, and to the dismay of his thought Lorna turned to where
Anton had any client to distract her. Also, I was angry because
Dulcie did not seem satisfied with the apology that had to return to
work.
In the evening, prepared for you a snack and turned on the radio.
A long, long time, did not feel so unhappy. He reread the card you
sent Cathy, gave the bills to be paid that month. Attempted to read
a new novel, but could not concentrate. Television was their last
hope, and it worked. I was watching a movie when the doorbell
rang.
- Damn! - Rose, then sat motionless, realizing who was on the
door. - Oh, shit! - How could I forget him, if he insisted on invading
your life? - Anton, does not lean on the door, you'll trigger the
burglar alarm! - She opened the locks trying not to smile when he
waved to her with a bottle of champagne. The man was
incorrigible!
- This here is really neat - he commented to enter.
- Thank you. What do you want?
- What the reception! I came to wish you a happy New Year. - So

only nine, you are early.

- Well - he smiled - here it needed time to chill.
- He gave the bottle of champagne to her.
Lorna shook her head, not knowing what he would do with it.
- Why was not the party of Sir Michael?
- For today I make my own party. - He kissed her on the tip of the
nose and she turned, impatiently. - They know that I want to
spend the rest of my time with you. Not only understood, but
agreed. You made a great impression on everyone,
- I'm not interested in impressing anyone, especially you.
- Ah, but impressed! Take me to your apartment.
She guided him up the stairs, controlling laughter with difficulty.
When they entered the room, turned and saw that he was looking
around with interest, very seriously.
- It's very cozy, Lorna. You gotta give the environment a climate
very ... very country. And who ordered those flowers?
- I bought. I like flowers. This time of year they are a luxury, but I
like it.
- And this picture? - He asked, coming closer to the wall. It was a
simple but touching picture of a willow tree with a stone wall in the
background. - I like it,
much the same. Who took?
- I - Lorna said, proudly. - I like the colors of the old wall, the
tree ... I do not know, the ...
- Balance - he added. - Are you interested in photography?
- No, it was by chance.
- And let me see the rest of the apartment?
- Okay - she capitulated, smiling - can you give me your coat. I
put that bottle in the refrigerator.
Anton followed her into the kitchen and she showed little aihda
missing from the apartment.
- It is not all ready - he explained, telling about the things that are
meant to buy for the living. - I think this year I will succeed. Looked up at him, saw that watched intently.
- Your house is very nice. It helps to know her better. What about

that wood carving? It's beautiful!

- I also think - Lorna agreed, catching it between his hands.
- It was very expensive - played malicious. - I found a secondhand
store, while still a teenager.
Half an hour later, when he was cooking chicken and frying
potatoes, he realized that once again was assigned to Anton. Did
not mean to not let him into her apartment, but when he invited
her out to dinner, offered to cook!
At midnight they came to bring the New Year in, rushed back to
the warmth of the apartment and opening the champagne.
- At the New Year - Anton toasted, raising his cup. - I wanted to be
with you tonight to receive the New Year together.
Lorna drank, not knowing what to say. They were both standing in
front of the fireplace. Anton put the cup aside and held her face in
her hands.
- May I kiss her on New Year, Lorna? - She nodded, without
speaking, and he kissed her lightly, her eyes shining fun when
she raised her head. - Beijo naive
number two.
Soon after Anton was gone. She watched him, stifling a yawn
when you get off the couch, stretching, arms almost touching the
ceiling to make the gesture.
- Go back to lead Hampshire, Anton?
- No, no. I stayed at the Castle Hotel.
- I know him well. Sometimes I go with Eve to the restaurant.
- It was Eve who recommended - he said, smiling. - I gotta go.
We'll have to wake up early tomorrow morning.
- What?
- You will be my guide, remember? Ten hours is good?
- But I just said maybe!
- Prefer nine hours?
- Anton, we have found persistent in life, but you gain
prize.
- Don 't know what you're saying, I think my English is not good
enough - he said innocently, and Lorna opened her mouth in

amazement As happened at other times, she yielded,

The next day dawned clear and cloudless, despite the cold. Lorna
Anton showed everything there was to see the car and walk.
Lunch in Old Windsor and then driving by nearby roads.
It was seven o'clock when they returned, and Anton said he would
pick her up at eight and a half to dine at your hotel. Lorna bathed,
painted up and chose a dress elegant but very simple mesh.
They took an aperitif in the hotel bar and only then she knew he
would return to Holland the next day. I honestly could not tell if he
was disappointed or relieved.
- I did not think ... you come back soon.
- Just two weeks - he explained. - Will I have to make several trips
before I install here.
- You gonna be staying with Karel?
- Oh, no. I'm there sometimes when he is traveling.
- It seems strange. Not get along with his cousin?
- Yes - Anton smiled. - But only in small doses, though he is a
good guy. It is very hectic for my taste.
Lorna looked at him suspiciously.
- You have fear of disrupting Karel in your evenings with her
friends?
- Lorna! - Anton put his hand on the heart. - What do you think
that the Van der Buren are?
- I think that is very effective with women - she admitted frankly. At least you and your cousin.
- Come on, ma'am - he shook his head - let's dinner.
The elegant atmosphere of the restaurant and delicious food
made and Lorna. When Anton took her hand, she did not react.
- It was great. Thank you.
- Lorna, back to England as soon as possible. I'm not completely
off of my businesses, but count the days to see it again.
- No, Anton. - She withdrew her hand from his. - It is better to say
goodbye. Was great to have known you and loved the day. But
really, we have nothing in common.
- What nonsense! How can you say such a thing?

- Well, is that ... do not want to get involved. Now repeat this ...
- But you're already involved.
- Why do you say that?
- Are not you?
Would? My God, does she? Looked down, fleeing
his. Did not want to see the smile of a face so charming.
- No. - stubbornly, looked at him. - No, I'm not. Only
is one thing that matters in life, is my store. It means
everything for me.
- Are you happy? - He wondered, looking at it carefully.
- Yes
- You worry me, Lorna. - Anton covered her hand with the
yours. - It should support your life into one. If you lose it, not
Bera anything.
- Nothing will take Feline me - she protested vehemently.
- Nothing!
- I do not think you have understood what I said. Let? Me to
explain better ...
- I understand perfectly. There is nothing more I want nothing.
"Please take me home now. I am very tired.
When they reached the store, he tried to get her to invite him for
coffee.
- No, Anton, I'm really tired.
- It's only reason? Or do not trust me?
- No. No. This is ... - Of course she did not trust him. But
could not say that when he has not once had tried
forward the signal. - I'm really tired, Anton. Goodbye. Good trip we'll see soon, Lorna.
- No.
- Maybe?
- No.
He left, smiling at her, waving the shop window. Anton
back. Had no doubt. What the hell would she do with that
man? "
A few days later when life seemed to return to normal, Lorna went

to London to meet Cathy and do some shopping. January sales

were
going quite well. After count as Cathy had been on holiday in the
Canary arteries, heard interested what happened to Lorna. As
expected, she enjoyed a lot like Anton, but at the end of the story
was just as surprised as his sister.
- If I did not know that it is impossible, I would swear that is in love
with him. - Cathy shook his head incredulously. - Well, it is
impossible, therefore, do not talk nonsense.
- But, Lorna! You never gave up as well. Never gave an inch. And
this man walked a mile!
- I know. I. .. But it's all over now.
- But why, for God's sake? Why, if you like it?
- You, more than anyone, need not ask me that.
- Oh, Lorna - Cathy moaned, unhappy. - Can not be that way
forever. You're only half alive. Do not let the past continue to
haunt her. I know it's easy for me to talk, but ...
- Yes, it's easy to talk - Lorna responded. He told every detail of
his meeting with Anton. But in fact Cathy did not understand their
fears. Oh, she knew all about
Dougan Jake, but she was not assaulted. - I. .. I can not change,
Cathy, is so hard to explain. There were moments, along with
Anton, who felt such a panic that could hardly breathe. It's a
feeling that comes over me, that's suffocating me.
Cathy's eyes expressed his sentence.
- But you had improved. I had? You said ...
- I know what I said. I wanted, but ...- I think so. Yes, I was excited
but I could not go further. My fear is stronger than my desire,
much stronger.
- I understand but ... Well, I also think that you consult a
psychoanalyst.
Lorna was furious.
- I am well aware what happens in my own mind, Cathy! Do not
need anyone to tell me!
- Okay, okay, do not be angry! But why not tell the Anton?. So he

would understand.
- Because I am ashamed! Ashamed! Also, like the others, it is only
after one thing. Why should I force myself to do something I do
not want?
- You are contradicting yourself. A minute ago, confessed that he
was attracted to him. He said he had been excited, but the fear
was stronger. This means that he wants to sleep with
- Shut up! Leave me alone! - Lorna put her hands on her temples
and sighed. - Sorry, Cathy, we're talking again.
- Yes, the problem will resolve itself if you're not even interested in
an affair with Anton. He does not seem the type who would accept
a platonic relationship. But how much longer you want to live like
this? Have an affair with him! Accept life as it is. If it were me. was
what he would do, taking advantage of me as he wanted.
Lorna was astonished.
- What do you mean?
- More and more I am convinced that men should be explored.
That's what I mean. They use women, why can not we use them?
Karel told me that Anton is rich, out of which he won in the
profession he inherited a fortune.
- I'm not interested in that! - Lorna looked at her sister as if he had
never seen before. - I do not know what is happening to you,
Cathy, but I'm enjoying it.
- I thought we had made an agreement. Live and let live. Lorna
was silent for some time. Never comment on the
about Anton with Cathy. He decided to change the subject and
ask about the work of his sister.
He returned to Windsor more troubled than ever ... with Cathy,
with Anton, herself. After all, her sister was right. She was a study
in contradictions.
Eve came to see it in the evening. Lorna closed everything and
took her friend to take a cup of coffee in the apartment.
- Sorry I have not been before - Eve said, sinking into an
armchair. - It's horrible to work again, right?

- I do not think not. You're only coming now?

- I was in his parents fulian in Devon. We chose the wedding date,
finally. It will be the last Saturday of April. But I did not come talk
to me. How are you and Anton?
- There is nothing to say about us. I'll put the kettle on.
- Lorna! Forget the tea, I can not stay long. Tell us! Where he took
on the eve of New Year?
- We are here and eat frozen chicken and frozen potatoes.
- Frozen? I've seen everything!
- And champagne at midnight.
- Well, it's progress. - Eve smiled. - And on first? Where to go? I
want to know everything!
- We are here. He asked me to show you the city, that I might be
your guide.
- What? No way! Anton studied at Eton, Windsor should know
better than you!
It was the turn of Lorna be surprised. But do not be upset. The
more I thought about it, it felt funny. Remembered Anton enjoying
the bridge over the Thames River that separates the towns of
Eton and Windsor. He remembered he had told that if he followed
a straight line would reach the famous school. There was even
taken him there to meet you!
- What a liar! - Said good-naturedly. - He is the best! As I spoke to
him about the city, he pretended to be fascinated! He and his
beautiful conversation ... He and his lies!
- Bela conversation? Lorna, what are you talking about?
- Nothing. Just know that by now I was unable to insult him, get
rid
him, let him angry, resist it. Anton always finds ways to wrap me,
and this was one of them. He chose a program that I knew I
would!
- Could not resist it? - Eve asked.
- Now you're intruding. I speak of the strength of his personality,
that's all.
- Too bad. I thought there would be two marriages.

- He said he would return, but will not work, I'm sure.

Anton was out three weeks and during that time, Lorna went
through the most varied stages. At the end of the first week,
spoke of him and thought him so much that just angry with
herself. Early in the second week, acknowledged that the impact
that it had produced Anton devastating.
Finally concluded that underestimate his intelligence, insight.
While he was irresistibly charming, manipulative, cunning, was
sincere and honest. The kind of friend that she would like. What
led to another thought ...
At the bottom of his heart, where rationalizations, lies and
excuses were unacceptable, she recognized that the physical
desires. If there was one man who could turn it into a real woman,
this man was Anton Van der Buren. If it could be a little like Cathy,
just a bit ... If you could have a romance, take life with ease ... I
wanted nothing of him beyond what he wanted to.
Early in the third week, Lorna began to reject it. Everything.
Perhaps because of the absence of Anton. Was returning to the
routine without the physical presence of it to influence him. He
telephoned several times, as if determined not to let her forget it,
but it was not the same thing to see it.
At the end of the third week, was no longer confused. It reached a
sensible conclusion. Veria Anton occasionally. Only occasionally.
Did not want to expel him from your life or get too involved. Allow
it to be your friend.
Anton called in would arrive on Friday. Lorna agreed to dine with
him. Thursday night, was setting the window, something I'd love to
do, when suddenly looked up and saw the street, watching her.
She was barefoot, wrapped in old pants and an old sweater,
sitting on the floor of the window, inelegantly. Soon as he saw
Anton stood up, feeling happy, scared and excited.
- Hello, Anton. Voc .. you're a day early.
For the first time. Life, Anton did not find what to say. He had
never seen her not be impeccably dressed ... and also never seen
her so beautiful as now. Without shoes she was much smaller and

look at it had to look up ... Ah, the eyes ... they were telling him
how much she liked to see him again.
Is she felt so much he miss? Will thought about him every day?
Could you tell I never wanted to separate from her, who had
noticed that when he left England? That began to love her from
the first moment I saw her? No, it was time yet. It was too early.
It took all his control not to embrace it ... had given his word. For
the first time in his life, he was humble. Not expected to fall in love
so deeply for her. I never loved any woman as well, not even
come close.
Lorna's heart pounding as I climbed the stairs to the apartment,
but the stairs were not responsible for it. She did not expect this ...
the great joy of seeing him again. When looked up and saw the
street, the lamplight hitting the golden hair, the lovely smile on his
lips, his heart had
warmed.
- Can you give me your coat - said in the room, turning to Anton.
He already had taken and she saw he was wearing a turtleneck
sweater and black velvet pants. Approached him, hugging his
neck and asking for a kiss.
Were you disappointed with his control. Came even closer, letting
instinct taught him things that long ago should know.
- Anton ...
CHAPTER VIII
She whispered his name, felt when he held his breath and then
kissed her in a sensual kiss that shook every nerve of his body,
making his blood throbbing veins. Has fully, without any barrier,
realizing his chest against her breast soft, aware of the response
to that contact.
Then all his reservations disappeared.
- Lorna ... - He pulled her closer, every piece of her body stuck to
it. He slid his hand under her sweater and climbed slowly toward

the breasts ... That move prompted her to fear suffocating.

Immediately grabbed his hands, gasping when he saw the glint in
his eyes. My God, Anton was angry with her ... his heart beat
wildly.
- So nothing has changed? - He wondered.
She looked up to see it better. I could not believe he was smiling!
- Lorna, no ... not look at me like that! What is it? - He came near
her, frightened by the expression on his face. - Honey, what is?
- No. - She stepped back, hands raised. - Anton, sorry. I will not ...
I never ...
- Lorna.
- I. .. it's just that ... today you're so ... so high! So ... so great!
- What?
- I never noticed how tall you are. Maybe I should put on your
shoes? But before I go to prepare a drink.
- Mad! - He ran his fingers through his hair and smiled. - The girl
is mad at me, of course.
- Tea or coffee?
- Prefer something stronger.
- Just got brandy.
- Serve. Pure. And hurry! Do not just stand there so seductive.
One of these days will receive more than requested, woman.
- It's just that ... today you're so ... so high! So ... so
Lorna ran into the kitchen, with the last sentence echoing in his
ears. Never behave like that. He had lost his mind?
They talked a bit before leaving for dinner. I knew he had no
father, stepmother and two siblings married in the Netherlands.
The rest of the family lived in Kent, England.
- What will you do with the house in Amsterdam?
- I'll sell it. What reminds me: he bought the newspapers that I
asked?
- Yes - Lorna came to fetch them for him - three weeks. The last
week had two houses and that there are several that might
interest you.
- Good. But this does not matter, Lorna. Not this. - He looked at

her, smiling. These two are north of Buckinghamshire. Far! Are

trying to get rid of me?
- Well .. - He remembered the conversation and see. - It seems
that you know England very well, and Windsor as the palm of your
hand ...
- Eve .. - He saw in her eyes that was not angry.
- Eve I change clothes while you look at the ads.
When he returned, he seemed satisfied.
- You are beautiful, Miss. Stewart. Great dress. But I came to the
conclusion that looks good wearing anything.
- Not with the clothes I was wearing for ten minutes.
- Especially them. Those jeans are based on you like a second
skin. I liked it.
Showed him the newspaper open and Lorna disguised a smile. It
was the announcement of a house that she would choose if I had
money. How not far from Windsor, not
scored for him. Where to buy Anton, would be too close to leave it
safe.
- They do not give the price - said. - It is old. Perhaps the
structure is shaken. But I imagine that you are able to verify this.
- Sure. - He laughed at her. - But you prefer me to go live in
Scotland, is not it?
- My dear, I did not say anything! Australia also serves.
- We will visit her tomorrow - he said, dropping the newspaper.
- We?
- Come on, I'm hungry.
Lorna thought it would keep what had resolved. Only occasionally
find. It was true that he felt closer to him, which seemed to have
been separated for three weeks, but that man left very upset and
angry.
Anton said it was a house of average size. Actually, it was a
house of stone farm, built in the eighteenth century, the interior
had been smartly modernized. It had six bedrooms and three
bathrooms. In the back there was a small house for employees,
also of stone, and stables and a barn on land and large. Lorna

was delighted.
Took a long time looking at every corner. Anton scored in a
notebook everything that he had observed, and finally she was
waiting for him in the car while he and the broker discussed the
price.
- I made an offer - Anton said when he returned to the car.
- The owners are asking too much and the broker knows this.
- You will buy? So soon?
- It's what I wanted. It has the perfect atmosphere. Know what I
mean?
- I understand perfectly. As the ad said, is charming.
- I will convert the barn into a studio - he said. - I want to work
there. But I will do everything slowly.
- You mean that you will retire?
- Sure, why not? I love it. The house, Lorna, you help me to
choose the furniture? I'll give you carte blanche.
Suddenly she felt uncomfortable. What was that? Carte blanche
- No, the answer is no - said firmly. - You need to give your
personality to the environment. It has to be you, only you.
- Lorna ...
She was adamant, and for the first time his talk did not work.
- This time, Anton, you have to accept a no.
He started the engine, your sweet brown eyes angry.
- May I remind you, madam, that I know take no for an answer?
He forgot that this is not the first time?
Anton appeared in the store in mid-afternoon the next day and
she had
choice but to tell Dulcie on the house. The woman had fallen
under its spell when he approached him one day when Lorna was
attending a client. He said he had come for Lorna for lunch and
then visit the house. Thus, the questions of Dulcie were
inevitable.
- How exciting! You will help you to install, Lorna?
- Of course not. He's just an acquaintance.
- When are you moving?

- As soon as possible, she says. It will put a bed there, and then
all retire gradually. I do not take long.
- Meanwhile, he is here in Windsor. Eve is the hosting?
- No, the Castle Hotel.
- So close? You will probably see it a lot. - Lorna did not respond,
he pretended not to hear. - I found him charming,
- Very.
- It is extremely attractive ...
- Very.
The answers ran dry. Dulcie did not ask anything. But Lorna knew
I had to live from now on, with the curiosity of the other.
It was not easy, but managed to Anton distance in the following
weeks. Were to lunch and found themselves two or three times a
week. Actually,
was more than she had planned, but less than he would like.
Fortunately, the strength of her will was
almost equal to it. Almost.
However ... on nights other than the way he felt terribly lonely.
Never felt this way before. His apartment was her one refuge, a
place
where calm was never lonely or bored, but now, when Anton was
not with her, found himself thinking about it. He was such good
company! Had been
sonente home twice during a week that Lorna had taken a cold,
but usually went to London to watch a movie or having dinner in a
restaurant
mild and pleasant. Anton never be invited for coffee, and Lorna
not encouraged.
Deep down, she knew that something would happen. PodeIriam
not go on like this forever. Often remembered the comments of
Cathy. What Anton
not bear a long platonic relationship. Well, while he had
supported. But how much longer?
Towards the end of March, he was spending five days in the
Netherlands. He insisted that Lorna was with him, but she refused

firmly. He used the store as a pretext,

and Anton, reluctantly, accepted the apology. When Anton came
the trip, she told the story of his life. He had moved, but never
returned Lorna
the house, because he did not want her to see before the reform
is completed. Anton was directly from the airport to her house,
and she received him with open arms
with a kiss naive ... very naive.
- You look tired, Anton. It's almost midnight, should have gone 89
directly home. - She smiled at him. - I could have waited another
day. Want some coffee or a drink?
- Coffee - When Lorna went to the kitchen, he took off his jacket. I
was not tired, was tense. She would never know how much it
costs to go to be patient. But now came
its limit, and felt that something had to happen.
If someone had told him that behave like a woman so desirable
as Lorna and behaved, never believe. Always heard that love
makes
people are going to extremes impossible, and was discovering it
for yourself. Oh, how I loved her!
The tension in him was not caused only by physical necessity,
partly was due to the fact that it can not even tell her what I felt.
Had to wait until the time comes. Their relationship was founded
on solid, and over time became increasingly strong. But it was still
early for declarations. She kept a distance not only physically, and
he wanted to overcome this barrier before asking her to marry
him. Speed it would only scare her.
- Here's your coffee. How was the trip? - Lorna asked, sitting in
front of him.
- Excellent. The next will probably be the last.
Lorna watched, worried, feeling the strain of it as if it were
something tangible. Does Anton had come to end it all?
- There's something in the head, Anton. What is it?
- Do you ever fell in love, Lorna? - He asked, seriously.
- No.

Anton thought a moment.

- So it was purely physical?
- What? What are you talking about?
- Stop the run, Lorna. It is time to tell me everything. I know
there's something ... I know you got hurt, very hurt. Several times
I asked him to tell me. Before I get into your life, you had a
reputation for not liking men, you know that?
- You were talking to and see.
- I have a drink with her before boarding the last week. Do not
bother with it, not tell me anything. I asked him with whom you
went out during the year she met her before we met, and she
replied that there was no one. Absolutely nobody.
- So?
- Why? Why did you have a reputation for not liking men?
- I did not know I had, but ... there was not anyone ... no man.
- Your relationships in the past were always casual and brief. That
is telling me? - She did not answer. - Listen, all I know about you
is how it is today. Tell me about your past, all of it. I know about
the death of his father. Start there.
- Whether the story of my life? - Lorna chuckled and sighed. Tell
him. She did not care to count. However, let the incident with Jake
Dougan out. It was a beautiful story.
Then he told all. Less than that. He spoke of Jake, but only to say
that was the last man in her mother's life.
- And what happened to him?
- After my mother died in the hospital, Cathy and I were in care. I
never saw him again.
- Continue.
- Well, Cathy went to an orphanage and we were separated
because she was much younger. When I left, I got a job in a store.
Once I met a guy at the hostel where he lived, he was about
twenty years and lived nozzle. We got along well. It was his idea
that we work together. We started with almost nothing, selling
cheap clothing. Balances and clothes. Gradually we began to
have parish. We rented a room in Manchester:: I always wanted

one day to change to London, when Cathy was with me. You see,
even then, knew what he wanted. Wanted Felina. In any case, I
put off the move by my "friend".
- How so?
- He fled with an old truck that had bought the stock that was
within him and all our money. Oh, was not much, but my eyes
seemed a fortune. This story swept me.
- What did you do then?
- I started again. I had some savings. I bought another truck ... She looked up. - On second thought, was one thing I learned from
my partner: drive.
But where was I? Ah, yes, I sold my goods well, and at night,
worked as a waitress. Save every penny.
- To reach its goal.
- My dream. As soon as my sister left the orphanage, moved to
London. We had planned to take over the store together. We look
for a decent place, but we got to Windsor by chance, one day, we
went out to travel by car and I liked the place. Cathy too.
- Why Cathy is not with you?
- Was invited to be a model. The shop was my dream, not hers.
Cathy wants more from life than I do. He began working for an
agency and soon we will see on television. End of story.
A long time passed before he spoke Anton. He heard everything
impassively, his eyes showing interest. Lorna had never told
anyone his story. Told him everything, except that the incident
was ashamed. This would not have the strength to reveal.
- I would like to say something, Anton. Are very shocked?
- Shocked? Lorna, I am proud ... You got it. He got what he
wanted and was able to sacrifice. What can I do but admire it?
The statement left her embarrassed. He was an admirable man,
he liked a lot. Again confident, he smiled.
- You are very serious, Anton. What worries him now?
- Two questions.
- You can tell. - He felt more confident than ever about him.
- This young man, his partner. There was something between

you?
- Only business.
He shook his head as if he expected the answer. He began to
walk around the room.
- After all he told me, it seems that there was no place for lovers.
- No.
He turned to face her, hands in his pockets.
- So my second question is unnecessary,
- I will twenty-six years next month. - Lorna had their eyes
downcast. - You must find it incomprehensible, too ...
- Nothing is incomprehensible to me now, baby. Nothing. - He sat
down again, his face relaxed. - Thanks for telling me, for trusting
me. The mystery is over and I now understand it perfectly.
- Do you understand?
- Probably better than you understand.
- No, Anton, I understand very well. I try not to judge all men by
those involved with my mother. I try to keep things in perspective,
honestly. I do not want to think that Jean was a bad person. She
always did what he could for me and Cathy, but was too weak.
Always chose the wrong men. I am very different from her, and
not actually hate men.
- I never thought I hated. But once you made a comment that
intrigued me. He said that from experience, knew that every time
there was a man in a woman's life, there were problems.
- Of course now you understand. No, - No, I do not understand.
Because there was never a man in his
life. - How can you say that? There was a lot! - No, think about it.
There was in her mother's life, not yours. Lorna That statement
caught by surprise, never thought
so.
- There never was a man in your life - Anton repeated with
determination. - You were the daughter of Jean and of course

your lifestyle has affected you. But he was a child,

could not do anything. He knows that is completely different from
Jean. But what he did when he became an adult? If locked behind
your prejudices. Do you really think is to live,
lock in a world of women?
- Refers to Feline? - She was terrified. - I had never thought of
that. I. ..
never looked at things from this angle. I suppose you're right.
- You do not keep the balance of things. Is biased. And illogical.
- Yes Yes .. I think I am.
Anton was relieved. Finally know that Lorna was afraid of him,
why he insisted on finding it a little, and walked away in so many
ways.
- Lorna, I helped in some way to dismantle the evil associations of
his past. With respect to men?
- You're here, right? - She smiled. - And let's face it: you now part
of my life.
- I had to fight hard to achieve that.
- I know.
- I will continue to fight to be part of your life permanently. How do
you feel about it?
- Content - she confessed immediately. Then, looking into his
eyes. - I am very happy.
Now, Anton could tell you. The moment had come. Moreover, it
was important to say. She really needed to be loved, to know she
was loved.
- I love you, Lorna - spoke carefully. - I love you long time. - I
would take her in his arms, but if handled and stayed put. Needed
to remain patient. The look of Lorna was painfully clear to him. You are surprised? Honey, I tried to show you that I love. During

all this time.

- But I ... I thought ...
- He thought that the last three months I had staged a long routine
of seduction - he added, a sad smile on his lips.
Actually she did not know what to say. He tried to show you. And
many ways. Anton loved her. There are many weeks should have
perceived, but your bias is not
allowed. All the while hoping he lost his temper. In a way, she had
been testing.
Hoping to get tired of it, because deep down I did not believe
that a man like him could love a woman like her.
Anton came, helping to raise. Once touched so tenderly in her
face, that Lorna felt a chill.
- Nothing in his life was easy, it's not wanted? Nothing in his life
was consistent. Nothing until you opened your store and made his
support your reason for living. Do you understand now what I
meant when I tried to talk about it?
She looked at him, unable to speak, a ONDADA tenderness
invading.
- You never trusted before - Anton continued. - I never trusted
anyone but itself. But I want you to trust me. If you are not ready
yet, do not try
rush it. Will continue as now, to believe that I love you, absolutely.
For now do not expect anything from you, Lorna. You should not
feel obliged to say or do anything.
Neither he wanted, Lorna could talk. For now, all I wanted was to
hug him, feel his lips on his.
They kissed and had never kissed before. At the instigation of
Lorna, the kiss was deepened, changing intensity. Anton's mouth
explored hers, hungry. She raised her head, the body pressed

against him, while the burning lips kissed the soft skin of his neck.
The excitement of it spilled over her and she did not react when
his hands slipped under her clothes, reaching the sinuses.
This time she did not feel panic or fear. The woman inside was
finally free. His arms involved the broad back of Anton, her lips
once again looked for him. Came even closer, and when he
moaned, she stroked so that there could be no doubt about the
desire he felt.
Anton lifted her in his arms and took her to the couch. Suddenly,
terror struck her. The grim scene of his childhood again, slowly.
He tried to fight
that memory. He tried to tell herself that there was nothing to fear.
What was Anton who was there.
Ah
- Oh, God, no! No! - The words came out of her lips against his
will, and soon she withdrew his hands from his body,
with all forces.
Silence beat him their ears. Anton said nothing. Absolutely
nothing. She never knew what was written on his face, because
he could not look at it. Lay there, trembling, her heart pounding in
my chest.
The silence was broken when she heard the door closing quietly
before he left. Then covered her face with her hands, her body
shaken by sobs uncontrollably.
CHAPTER IX
It was over between her and Anton. He was sure he would not
return. His watch said five in the morning. He tried to sit and
gather strength to go to bed. At least he could sleep late.

Tomorrow ... today ... was Sunday. Again she told herself that it
was better that he stay away from it. For the sake of it
He got up at noon and took a hot bath, put on a sweater and
jeans was a stroll.
It was a beautiful day, cold and clear. In its way, passed by edi
ings where Eve was working and recalled that her friend had
invited her and Anton for dinner that day. Forgotten to tell Anton.
It took about an hour walking. He returned home because I was
cold. When turned the corner, saw the car parked Anton in front of
the store. He waited, smoking a cigarette.
He smiled, feeling the heart beat faster, and ran to him, course he
was back. He had said that he loved her?
But when he saw his face, he was afraid. He was ... gray. If she
had found him tense the day before, was nothing compared to
now.
He stopped in front of the car, motionless. Anton came to her and
grabbed her arm with such force that came to hurt her. This, she
did not expect! Never seen him so angry!
- Anton, please - stammered - I'm sorry! What more can I say?
Tried to free him, but Anton would not let go. Instead, he closed
his eyes, as if he had difficulty speaking.
- Not with you, Lorna. It's okay. Open the door.
She obeyed, confused. If it was not with her, who was angry?
They went in silence to the apartment, and Lorna sat on the
couch watching him as he walked around the room.
- Jake Dougan! - Anton almost spat the name. - Jake Dougan.
Why do not you tell me? Why lie to me?
- I. .. - Cathy!, Lorna immediately thought! His sister had said it. It
was the only person I knew. - I did not lie, Anton. I. ..
- You can not lie by omission. It's the same thing! - He cried,

leaving frightened Lorna. She closed her eyes, sore, but soon
opened when he felt his hand gently inn on his shoulder. - I'm not
angry with you. Only
wanted to lay hands upon that scoundrel!
Lorna looked at him, suddenly relieved. I had to let it vent. He was
sitting there, listening to him curse and swear, without trying to
stop him. Undoubtedly, Cathy had told everything.
- A long time ago, Anton. I'm over.
- The devil that beat!
- Please stop crying. You are making me nervous. 'll make some
tea.
Anton was calm when she returned.
- I tried the elephone Cathy list - began to tell. We talked two
hours this morning. She told me everything you had told me. Plus
the episode that you missed out. Interesting. Some time ago I
thought of the possibility, you've had a bad
; Sexual experience. But I never imagined that he had been
beaten and
; Raped at thirteen years of age.
- I was not beaten. Not violated. Cathy is exaggerating.
- Or you.
- I do not understand how you can be so calm!
- I've said, I have lived with it for twelve years. Part
the past now. Cathy should not have counted! She did not have
that
right.
- Do not be against it. Cathy was the only person who could get
to understand their behavior. I insisted that I tell everything
knew. She did it with the best of intentions.
- There is no excuse ...

- You should have told me. Should have told me for weeks.
I would have understood much better. Come here, Lorna, my feel
side. I embrace it.
It was close to him quietly, leaving the tea forgotten. Anton wanted
embrace her and she wanted to be hugged.
- Cathy said you had shame, Lorna. Never heard of anything so
ridiculous. You were innocent, helpless.
Lorna was exhausted but relieved. Anton knew everything and still
loved her. She also loved him. For his perseverance, patience,
tenderness and strength.
- I love you, Anton - murmured softly. That emotion was new to
her.
- Then why are you so sad? - He smiled. - There is nothing to
worry about now. Nothing and no one will hurt her again. No, do
not run away from me. Stay here in my arms. - He made it
supported the head in his chest - Let's take things easy, my love.
Start getting used to
stay close to me, that is your place.
- Cathy thinks I should look for a psychoanalyst.
- Nonsense! Let's give it time. Now that I know what happened, I'll
help. From now on, I'll do exactly what you suspected that I was
doing. I'll seduce her.
- It will be a test for your patience - she said, embarrassed but
happy.
- But just think of the ultimate reward - he joked, smiling
confidently.
They were sitting there a long time. Lorna had her eyes closed
and was pleased with his arms protecting it.
- I'm hungry - Anton said, after all. - Let's go out to eat.

- Oh, forgot. Today we have dinner with Eve and Julian.

- Great. So let's do a quick lunch. You know how Eve is
exaggerated.
When they found Eve and lulian for dinner, the food was great.
- Eve - Anton said - you are an amazing cook!
- My dear Anton, the fact that you have repeated all the dishes,
proof that he liked it. - Eve smiled satisfied.
- You two are not even nervous about the proximity of the
marriage. How can-Lorna asked.
- I get nervous every time someone talks about marriage kids'
Eve - Like now!
Lorna was not sure if her friend was joking. I just knew I would not
want to be the bride at a wedding as well. There would be
hundreds of guests at a gala reception.
- Have you found a home, Julian? - Anton asked.
- We agreed to leave later. We live here in the home of Eve as
she is working. And we look for something as soon as she
becomes pregnant.
Lorna could not contain himself.
- Eve! I thought you wanted to continue working after marriage ...
- Well, Julian finds ...
- Julian think? - Lorna insisted. - And you? - I am thirty years. I
have no time to lose.
When the two went to the kitchen for coffee, Eve grabbed the arm
of Lorna, very serious.
- That's what I want, Lorna. I want the children of Julian and do
not want to wait.
- Hey, I was joking.
- I know, but it is amazing how I've changed a year ago.
- I also - Lorna confessed. - When I think how I've changed in

recent months! It was very subtly.

- You will be the next - Eve joked.
- You are wrong. - Lorna was suddenly tense. - We are perfectly
happy that way.
Eve looked surprised at her friend, not knowing if Lorna was being
sincere.
- About - Lorna changed the subject - Saturday is my birthday. I
would like to invite you and Julian for dinner at my house on
Sunday. It is impractical to prepare a dinner after a Saturday in
the store.
E - The store still comes first, Lorna? I mean, before any
else?
- Exactly. - Lorna cut the matter back to the room carrying
the teapot. - One moment, Julian. You were saying was
visit the home of Anton last week?
- Yes Why?
- It seems that everyone was invited except me, there is Anton?
- You are prohibited. But only until the house is ready. Will be
invited when everything is perfect.
- What's this? - Julian wondered. - I do not understand
nothing. Lorna knows nothing about retirement? Neither woman
who moved there?
- No - Lorna confirmed.
- Neither the man?
- I did not know that Anton had a weakness for men - she joked,
and everyone laughed.
- Stop it, Julian. Stop making trouble - asked Eve.
Anton was looking at Lorna.
- Now you do not know who to believe - he commented.
- But the story of man and woman is true. She cooks, this house,

and he's garden. They are living in that house of stone, deep in
the ground.
- I'm glad to hear it - Lorna said with sincerity, but did not
understand their own
reactions.
CHAPTER X
- Sorry, I'm very busy today - Lorna repeated these words once a
month, since he was inaugurated Felina, but Paul seemed to
understand.
If Anton had not known if he had not become more tolerant, it
would be more harsh with Paul. But she had changed.
- Give up, Paul - continued, smiling. - The answer is no and will
always be no.
- You can not blame a man for trying. - Paul smiled too,
- It's true. - Lorna accompanied him to the door. - Goodbye, Paul,
until the next month.
She returned to stock, where Dulcie was opening the boxes.
- He tried again - said indignantly. - Honestly! But today was clear.
- I heard. Why not tell him that he is committed?
- Who said I'm engaged?
- Are not you?
Her hand reached the pearl necklace she wore and that Anton
had given her on her birthday. At first I wanted to accept, this one
was too expensive.
- Anton, I can not accept - had said, but he had silenced with a
kiss.
- Match your dress.

It had been a few weeks. Just had used the beads twice before
this day, the day of his birthday and the marriage of Eve The
marriage was very elegant, and Eve had never been so beautiful.
- Lorna? - Dulcie called, bringing it to reality.
- What? Oh. sorry.
Dulcie looked at her, smiling. That angered Lorna, but could not
blame the other for taking the wrong conclusions. Dulcie made no
secret of the admiration he felt for Anton.
- No - Lorna finally answered. - I'm not committed!
- If you decide to sell the store - the other continued, without
undermining - give me the first option.
- Sell to shop? - Lorna was shocked. - Dulcie, I have no intention
of doing such a thing. Did not know you liked both the store.
- I like it. Of course, would talk to my husband. But the idea I like.
"My store" Lorna thought. "Abandoning Feline! Dulcie must be
crazy."
The phone rang at that moment and she answered, smiling when
he recognized the voice. Anton had to go get it for lunch, and off
for that reason decided to use the pearls. He was calling to cancel
the meeting.
- What happened? - She asked. - I'm losing my charms?
- Not at all. I have not met all ...
- Anton! - She was embarrassed. They talked for some time yet. When you come to see me?
- Tonight. I will pick it up at seven. It will give time for you to get
ready?
- For what?
- Dinner. An intimate dinner.
- Where?
- Here. Box. Is ready for inspection.

- Great! I was tired of waiting. Yes - agreed, realizing that Dulcie

watched with curiosity.
- We will be four - Anton warned.
- Oh! but I thought ... you said.
- What is an intimate dinner? And it is, my love. Goodbye. He
hung up before she could say anything else.
Once closed the store, Lorna took a bath, polished up again and
brushed her hair until the waves fell smooth. At least your hair did
not give him problems.
Who were the other two guests of Anton? Perhaps Sir Michael
and Lady Summers? Should have asked if she should wear a
dress or more relaxed. Ended up choosing a dress
verdeesmeralda, simple but with an impeccably tailored.
Anton seemed pleased when he saw that she wore the pearls.
Leaned excessively on her, while holding the car door open.
- You are very ... - Leaned toward her again, whispering the rest in
your ear. Lorna laughed.
- Anton, in some way this dress can be described as sexyl you
have sex in the head, you know that?
- Not so much the dress, is yourself.
Only then she realized that Anton was wearing a tweed jacket and
a sport shirt.
- I think I got ready too. After all, who will dine with us?
- Oh, the other two do not care. Like you, whatever that view.
- Honey, what are they? I know them?
He shook his head and gave Lorna. Would have to wait and see
who they were. No sooner entered the land of Anton, up the road,
the mystery was solved. Two huge dogs came wagging his tail.
- Our company tonight - Anton said, smiling. Lion and Cheetah.
- Oh, Anton, they are divine! You know that I had forgotten them?

For centuries, you do not speak them. When they arrived?

- There are three days. But he wanted to surprise you. - Suddenly,
put his hand on her shoulder. - Do not open the door yet. I need a
little chat with them before presenting them to you.
Laughed in his words. Lion and Cheetah were certainly
formidable hunting dogs. And also knew who was its owner.
Observed when Anton spoke with them, before sending her to
leave.
Lorna liked them, without fear or worry about the dress, laughing
when he saw the tail wagging her.
- You have been accepted - Anton said, smiling .- They are great,
right?
- No. But I bet you are relieved to get out of quarantine. The
second surprise was the cook, who opened the door for them.
Lorna had the impression that he knew from somewhere.
- Mrs. Gray, Miss. Stewart. - Anton made the presentations, and
seeing the puzzled look of Lorna, stated: - She worked at Karel's
house, when you came to talk to you. Van der Buren.
Mrs.. Gray was smiling. Lorna and Anton exchanged knowing
glances. She remembered having spoken with the woman at the
door, and after waiting in that awful room before fighting with Mr..
Van der Buren. How much had happened since then!
- I stole Mrs.. Gray my cousin - Anton continued. - She and her
husband are already installed here, is not it, Mrs.. Gray?
- The Villa - the maid said, sounding pleased. - The place is
beautiful. So quiet! Mr.. Anton was so kind ...
- Time, time - interrupted Anton. Let's start the visit by the kitchen.
Go ahead, Mrs.. Gray.
Lorna was surprised. Outside she noticed no change. The house
and the garden looked alike. But the interior had changed

dramatically. At least the entrance hall and the kitchen.

- It's beautiful! - Exclaimed, looking cabinets.
- It's functional, too - Anton said. - But let that Mrs.. Gray do the
honors,
The woman showed it to Lorna, from the smallest tool to the
dishwasher. Lorna became interested in every detail, infected by
the enthusiasm of Mrs.. Gray.
- I do not remember the kitchen being so great, Anton.
- I shot down a wall of the place where was the laundry. The room
that served as the office was transformed into a laundry. It is
there,
They gave a quick look at another apartment, the dogs are always
behind them, and then left Mrs.. Gray taking care of dinner. Lion
and Cheetah were down when they went upstairs.
- They have no order to climb - Anton said, while holding the arm
of Lorna. - You will not find much difference up here, except the
decor.
In the main room, the rest remained similar.
- You furnished it also the guest rooms?
- Sure. We will have an opening party soon, my love. But that's
your department. You decide who will sleep here.
Those words made her uneasy. We, he said. We'll have a party ...
- Oh boy! - Lorna exclaimed upon seeing the size and luxury of
the adjoining. - This bathtub! It holds ...
- Two people - Anton added, hugging her waist as she tried to
break free.
- You are so eccentric, Anton ...
- Is not that a very civilized idea, the communal bath? The
Japanese always do it.

- I doubt it - she replied, provoking him, wanting to be kissed. But I do not mind if we were just us two ...
She got what she wanted, and they were embraced a long time.
- The dinner should already be almost ready - Anton said, moving
away from it.
Lorna came closer, hugging him, sticking his body to his.
- I am also ready.
- Honey, we have time and place ...
In response, she slipped her hands under his jacket and pulled
his shirt out of his pants, the back, watching as he closed his eyes
start to stroke him.
- I'm ready for you, dear. The time has come, and we have a bed
close by. How about I spend the night here?
- Education tells us to wait for the invitation. - Anton could not
keep the tone playful. His voice was serious and impassioned,
and his control was on the line ... - Lorna ...
- Tonight, Anton ... - She promised, before he kissed her again,
and his whole body throbbing with desire for him.
In those last few weeks they had come closer. Today she wanted
to make love. His fears had been gradually removed by Anton,
each time he took in his arms, waiting for her patient.
He acted with such tact and tenderness, that even the memory of
those moments were enough to make your blood pumping faster.
But now there was no tenderness, only passion. Lorna
corresponded kissing passionately.
Anton knew now that she needed him as much as it it. Oh, yes,
that night consummate their love.
- Honey, we need to go down. How will you feel if Mrs.. Gray up
our search?
- Deeply embarrassed. Is it likely that she go?

- You know that. - He laughed. - I was just trying to make you

behave ... temporarily, of course. Now come on. You'll have to
wait a little longer.
- Hey! Who should say it was me - Lorna protested, laughing.
Anton, I think we get better up here a little bit, to give you time to
recover. Let's talk about ... Oh, stop it! Stop! - Said, laughing
agitated when he started to kiss her.
- Seriously, I ask you something.
- What? - He let go.
- The bathroom. It's divine. And more. He knocked over another
wall?
- The second and last. There was a deposit of clothes to the side,
which is now part of our bathroom.
The malaise that Lorna had felt before returned immediately. Our
bathroom, he had said. It was probably a way of speaking,
because she would spend there a lot of time, or she would be the
last person to realize something that everybody already took for
granted? Eve, Julian, Dulcie, even Cathy!
If there was still some doubt in your mind, it was removed when
Anton showed him the last room of the house, the ground floor.
- The last surprise - he said, opening the door and causing it to
enter.
Immediately their eyes filled with tears of emotion. He also
sadness, because now he knew that Anton would ask her to
marry him, probably that night.
It was a huge room, measuring about twelve feet by as much
wide. Overlooking the gardens and fields beyond. Observed
Anton when he stepped forward to pull the curtain, feeling the
heart beat deaf, within the breast.
The carpet had a pinkish hue, much like his apartment, but was of

superior quality. In the stone fireplace, which did not exist before,
a crackling wood fire. The furniture was of the same style of his,
but more to match the size of the room.
Lorna remembered very well have described for Anton as are the
tables and the lamps would like to buy when I had money. They
were all there! The only thing she did not expect to buy was a
huge piano, which he saw himself in a corner. Undoubtedly, Anton
dispatched from the Netherlands. There was an old desk and a
television. The tables, were several pots of flowers around.
There was a male trait in the room, and the like Anton was met.
However, there was no doubt that this room was decorated with
the intent to please her.
The last surprise, he said. Well, actually, was a surprise.
Now Anton was beside her, watching her anxiously waiting for
your comments. Simply do not know what to say. And as I had no
idea how to deal with the situation, tried to use the game. But,
even smiling, his eyes were full of tears.
- You ... how can I say? Voc .. you got a very rustic atmosphere.
She had used the same words of Anton, he turns his office for the
first time, but his attempt to soften things did not work. He put his
arm on his waist and was silent at his side. Of course, had
misinterpreted his tears.
- Why do not you prepare an appetizer for us? - He proposed.
- I say to Mrs.. Gray to get the dinner and put the dogs out.
Lorna did not know how I could spend the rest of the night. There
was no doubt that Anton to ask in marriage and even though I
love it, the last thing he wanted was to marry.
CHAPTER XI

He poured brandy and took it all at once. Then sank one of the
armchairs, to get up then. Was terribly agitated. He poured
himself another
dose, and was drinking when Anton came back.
She handed him a cup and sat down beside her on the couch.
Brandy has had its effect, and she felt more calm. Agia naturally.
As Anton had taught, as was always beside him. They talked
about generalities to Mrs.. Gray come to announce that dinner
was served. The night passed ...
Near the end of dinner, thought it would be better to try to avoid
that Anton made the request. But what if you were wrong? Make a
fool, and would be embarrassing for him.
- You suddenly went silent - Anton said, picking up a bottle of
wine.
- Do not want to drink, thank you. Excuse my silence, but tonight
was a shock to me.
- A shock? - His concern became a smile. Did not think I had
stayed away to temper with you, did you?
- There was this possibility. After all, you wanted to give me a free
hand to furnish the house. - Unconsciously picked up the pearl
necklace between his fingers. Why did not realize for months that
the marriage was in his plans? She had been blind, just because
this idea was not in their plans.
Were drinking coffee in the lounge, so that Mrs.. Gray could clear
the table. Then she came to say good night and withdrew.
- Anton, would you mind if held upon a little TV?
- Lorna looked at her watch. - Cathy will appear in a commercial,
and I promised that we would watch. - We? There she was doing
the same thing.
- Of course not. We can not lose. After all, she is responsible for

us to know ourselves. - Anton saw that she looked angry, and

lifted his hand, apologizing. - Okay, she is partly responsible. I
had forgotten Karel.
Lorna thought it would do as his sister. Do not get pregnant
accidentally. He was farsighted and had consulted the doctor for
some time.
- Be quiet again, Lorna.
She told him she was thinking. I had told her about the visit to the
doctor.
- I would take another cup of coffee.
- You already know where the kitchen - he replied, laughing. Bring
one for me too.
Failed to see the debut of Cathy on television. Lorna Anton went
to the kitchen because she could not keep your hands away from
her. She laughed when she saw him enter, seeing the glint in his
eyes, but fled when he tried to hug her. They were about to
become lovers, and life with Anton as his friend and lover, was
something she definitely wanted.
Screamed when he grabbed her, feeling the whole body respond
to that contact. Could tease him without mercy now, because
there was nothing to worry about.
- So this is how things will be! - He laughed when she turned her
head, preventing her kiss, he mumbled something.
- What are you talking about?
- He said I have to tame you!
- Oh, yes - she chuckled. - And how to do this?
- So - he murmured and Lorna held his breath, feeling every
nerve of his body tingle with anxiety. I could not wait, and when
his arms enveloped her, she also embraced fiercely.
When he took her to the room, arms, Lorna protested.

- You're going the wrong way! He laughed and put it on the floor.
- Come here, my beautiful and impatient inquiry! - He pulled her to
the sofa, hugging her.
Then it happened. He was very serious and looked at her with
those warm brown eyes and that she loved.
- Lorna, I will say now it will not surprise you. Will you marry me,
my dear, to share my life ...
Anton silent. While he lived not forget that moment. She need not
answer, the answer was in his eyes. He stood motionless. His
mind could not work.
Had given her enough time. Waited for months, preparing her for
that. And now ... gripped her chin forced her to look at it. His face
was wet with tears, which fell incessantly. Lorna was unhappy and
did not want to hurt him. Also loved him, said he was sure.
- Why? Lorna, you love me, I know. So why is that? She could not
speak. Away from him, looking for a scarf
her purse. His back not wanting to see the pain in his eyes. How
could I explain? Had to explain. Owed it to him.
- Anton, until I set foot in this house tonight, I had no idea that you
... I. .. that's not what I want. Marriage is so ... so final! I can not. I
can not take that responsibility. I spent many years with only
myself to worry! I fought hard to get where I am. I want, I need my
independence. Feline ...
- Not asked him to give up the store, Lorna. I know how much she
means to you. I confess that, over time, I would like to leave. But
only when you feel ready for it. Lorna ...
- No, do not say anything. - She turned around to face him.
- You'll probably never understand.
- Please let me finish - he asked calmly. Believe me, I will not try
to convince you of anything. It would be useless.

- You said it before, said he would not hurry to do anything.

- Speed? My dear, are five months!
- Very little time ...
Anton did not let her finish the sentence. Stood.
- I'll take her home.
- Home? But ...
- I will check your coat.
He spoke in such a way that she had no choice but to obey. He
took the bag and followed him to the hall. There was so much still
to say! I did not want to end everything between them, but it was
impossible to talk with Anton now. He was resentful, which was
very understandable.
Anton not turned off the car engine when stopped at the store.
Also made no move to leave.
- Anton, please ... - She was determined to make him see that
there was no reason for fighting. - I do not want everything ends
well. I love you.
- I know. - Anton smiled slightly. The problem is that not love him
enough. Perhaps, over time, realize. It was he who should tell you
that. It would not make her any good. Lorna had been a long, long
way in the last five months. But still had to grow a little, learn. And
he had done all he could.
- Contact me - she asked. - Spend the night here. Please,
Anton. There is no reason not to continue as before. We do not
need marriage. What is wrong ...
He stopped abruptly when he saw the expression on his face. He
realized that, once again, they were worlds apart.
- Not enough Lorna. You do not understand it, is not it? I do not
want to share my bed. I want to share my life. I want to travel with
me, live with me, worry me, laugh with me. I want you

permanently, not for brief encounters. I want something that is not

ready to give: dedication. Maybe never will be ready or able to
devote himself to a man. But for me, nothing less interested. Not
now. I love you too much to accept less. Goodbye, Lorna. I do not
do things differently.
Anton jumped from the car and opened the door for her, a
gentleman to the end. After guided home, slowly, bewildered. The
engagement ring was in his pocket. I had forgotten him
completely. I wanted her to stay with jewelry, as a souvenir.
Maybe send him some day.

CHAPTER XII

The days went on, inexorably. Days were long and empty. After
the first week, Lorna thought it had overcome the worst. The first
week without Anton was
be the worst.
As she allowed herself into this mess? He had once vowed that
no man on earth would change your life? And fulfill that oath ... By
Anton.
Fall in love with him had been a tricky process, would now be the
same person I was before last Christmas. At that time, life was
safe, she had peace, inner peace. Sure that he would have it.
Soon forget. Inevitably the first week without it was the worst.
- Lorna, are you okay? - Dulcie asked, interrupting his reverie.
- Yes! - Shouted down. After all, what he was doing there in his
apartment in mid-afternoon on Saturday?

He looked around the room, his face expressionless. Bright! Had

gone to make some sandwiches.
The month of May was coming to an end and Dulcie now working
on Saturdays as well, because the student who used to come was
gone. The tourist season had begun, but the weather was bad
that day and not see anyone on the streets. The rain was
relentless, covering the city with his gray robe.
The other assistant was also in the store, and Lorna had offered
to make sandwiches, so that no one needed to leave that shower.
What he had in
instead? He had been standing in the window of his room,
watching the rain fall, thinking in circles.
- It does not! - Said aloud, as if that might convince them it better.
- I am ridiculous. I am ridiculous. If love makes me so glad it's
over.
Reset to the old routine was not easy. I could be interested in
anything that happened around him, and spent the weekend
trying to remember what he did in his days off. Nothing, really. But
he was always happy, at that time.
The second week was not easy. In fact, it was even worse.
Despite the efforts made to think of other things, deal with other
things.
Dulcie did not say not a word about Anton, after she told him,
without explanation, that had broken. Was grateful that Dulcie did
not ask anything, no matter how curious I was.
- Lorna, are you sure that these prices are right? - Ask the seller
now, while examining some dresses. - Is there any reason to be
sold so cheap?
Irritated, Lorna was giving. He had only copied the prices they
had paid, not including taxes, spending and store their own profit.

Dulcie tried to take the case in the game. But it was clear she was
worried about Lorna. This, in turn, felt angry, not with the wizard,
but with herself. That was not his only mistake, had committed
other.
- Please, Dulcie, check and recheck everything again, following
the calculations of all time, yes? I. .. I'm going out a little.
Should not go out, not a Thursday, leaving Dulcie alone. But
suddenly felt claustrophobic inside that store.
Eve appeared on the following Sunday. He had been out a month
on your honeymoon.
- You look great! That tan! - Lorna commented cheerfully
determined to be what it was before. - Did you have fun too, or is
this a dumb question?
Eve said little, but enthusiastically about the Caribbean. Once
explained the real reason for his visit.
- We returned last night and went to visit Anton. We thought we
would make a surprise to you both. You can imagine our shock
when we heard what happened.
Lorna was filling the kettle, without looking at it.
- Please, Lorna, do not bother with the tea, I will not get much.
Tomorrow back to the office and still
I have a lot of things to do at home. Let's sit and talk.
Eve was concerned, was evident. It was his custom to try to
meddle in the affairs of others. And she deserved some
explanation.
Lorna sat down, but when he opened his mouth to speak, burst
into tears. The sobs shook her body and she could not stop.
Distressed, Eve hugged her as a mother hugs a child, consoling
her and almost crying with her.
Only after a long time Lorna was able to calm down. When he

finally spoke, it was to tell the whole story. He told everything to

Eve, absolutely everything. Not only about her relationship and
Anton, but on the first meeting of both the home of Karel,
aggression Jake Dougan, living with his mother.
Eve was with her hours, and when Julian called to ask if it would
go back home, told him to do his own dinner. Lorna listened
carefully
encouraging it to continue. As a lawyer, was not surprised easily
with things that people told him.
I've heard stories worse.
- I can only say I appreciate your confidence, Lorna. You've
always been a mystery to me. But now I understand you, I
understand everything.
- Everything? So my reasons for not wanting to marry Anton?
- Yes, I hesitated a lot before deciding to get married. But when
we find the right man ... - She paused, looking intently at Lorna. - I
thought he ... well, to be honest from the beginning I thought that
Anton went with you. And I still do. See how you've changed.
From a woman who never looked twice to one man, even that.
You are in love with him, can not deny.
- I am! I told you so. But I have not changed enough to get myself
to another person. Even Anton. I was my own mistress for a long
time. I like my freedom, I need my independence. Can I trust
myself, without danger of being abandoned. Understand?
Understands, Eve?
- Yes - She understood perfectly. It was easy to see how the mind
of Lorna worked, but the most important point was that Anton did
not love it enough. In fact, Anton said exactly that. He was right.
There was nothing to be said.
- Honey, I really need to go. When you want, call us and come.

Do not go if you do not stay.

- I'm sorry I bothered you, especially when it arrives. Thank you
for having listened to me. It was a great help. You and Julian are
great friends. If you want to tell him, you can count.
- Maybe I tell him the most important things. He will not pass, you
know.
Lorna knew. Before, I did not want to talk about herself with us,
and the result is that nobody understood, unless Cathy. Now they
could speak at least on some points. This was one of the changes
that occurred since it had met Anton.
Realized that Eve still had something to say, but seemed
undecided.
- What is it, Eve? Say.
- And ... - Eve opened her purse and pulled out a velvet box.
- Anton asked me to give him that. He said that suits your pearls.
Lorna took the box opened, scared because I knew what was
inside. Opened and closed.
- It's ... an engagement ring! - He put back into the hand of Eve
- Wait a minute.
The pearls were in her room. She had put the box back in the day
when they had finished putting in an envelope. Now she gave it to
Eve
- Pearls. I can not stay with them, Eve, and I can not accept the
ring. Return to Anton for me.
- I think you're making a mistake. He really wants to stay ...
- But I can not! Please do so. Sorry wrap it in this, but please do it
for me. I was too nervous to go to the post, I was afraid to send
for a taxi driver. Not want to risk ...
Eve kept the boxes in the bag.
- I understand.

- Listen, I'm sorry I got you this.

- Stop worrying. - Eve gave him a hug goodbye, insisting it
appears to dinner.
When the friend left, Lorna came up and began to cry. The ring!
The ring matched perfectly with the pearl necklace that Anton had
given her.
She cried silently, feeling a pain so great as ever made sense. As
he was an amazing person! I should have bought the ring while
the necklace, thinking to give her the day when asked in
marriage, on the day to take her to see the house. The home that
he had created for both!
I thought I knew all the qualities of Anton, but only in the following
days saw the value of it, the extent of his love. The more you
remember, the more I realized the dedication and depth of feeling
of Anton.
The following week, there was a time when she left the shop in
mid-morning, in the hands of his assistants. Guided kilometers,
regardless of the distance and time.
"You're only half alive," Cathy told him one day. My God, now she
was fully alive! His suffering confirmed increasingly unbearable.
Since he had seen the ring and realized its significance, had not
stopped to think about Anton, as would be suffering. What kind of
idiot was
her to flout a love like this? Had never been loved in life, and
when love finally came he could not accept it.
What he had done to deserve such love, did not know. What had
gone in exchange for Anton? Nothing but test after test. At the
time,
did not realize I was doing. But now clearly seen. He had been
waiting for him to disappoint in any way. Thing he did not. Why

not
had learned how deeply he loved her? His past prevented it to
believe it.
Nothing in his life was constant, until it Felina; could not believe
that something in the future would be constant, much less if it
involved a man. On Feline ... How did you feel about their
precious store, now? Not care anymore. Could not think of
anything other than Anton.
Started the engine in the car. Had parked on the shoulder, very
upset to drive. But it was that day that searched Anton. Only at
the beginning of July went looking for him.
The sun shone behind the curtains when Lorna woke up feeling
strange, cool. Never experienced a feeling like that. In the past,
had known peace, but peace was a false, unreal, the obvious
result of having raised a barrier between her and life. Found that it
was not peace but rather a total lack of concern, because
emotionally dead.
It's been a month and a half had not seen Anton. Six weeks
empty. My God, how I missed it! But it had been worthwhile, had
learned a lot this time. Learned that love was to give, think of the
loved one before you in mind. How did Anton.
Out of bed, took a shower, dressed and painted as he did every
morning ... until a few weeks ago. Lately he had neglected his
appearance, because
no longer cared about its image as owner of the Feline. Image?
Did not need more than one image, was now itself a new person.
This morning would seek Anton, was getting ready for him for
nothing and no one else. In the future would be. I wanted to
please him, make him happy. It would be the best wife in the
world.

That feeling of inner peace was born of the certainty of being

loved, absolutely and totally loved. The certainty brought him the
confidence to bring down the last barrier emotional.
He waited quietly for the arrival of Dulcie in the door of the store.
When he saw her, her assistant was puzzled. Lorna was neat and
tidy, but there was something strange in it.
- What, Lorna? It will not work today?
- I'll look for Anton.
- You will ... talk to him? Oh, Lorna, I'm so happy! He loves you so
much!
- Yes, but I was the last to find out.
- He asked you to marry him, right? That is why we fight?
- No. You know, Dulcie, I was shocked. In fact, I'm very stupid. I
was also the last person to realize that ... he would ask. He took
me by surprise and I reacted stupidly, because the idea of
marriage scared me.
- You are not the only - Dulcie smiled. - Many people feel that
way.
- Maybe. But it scares me more. 'll risk it. And I think that Anton
and I will succeed. -Was already out when he remembered: - Ah, Dulcie, I take a
vacation
of Feline. Take care of the store for me.
No rush, led to his house. Not want to risk an accident. I knew
exactly what he was doing, she felt calm.
Anton's dogs came running toward the car and she hesitated
before opening the door. Need not have worried, they
remembered her.
Soon Mrs.. Gray appeared, trying unsuccessfully to calm the dogs
that jumped around happily Lorna.

- Leo! Lobo! Quiet! - She seemed pleased to see Lorna.

- Ms. Stewart! Sorry for these two devils. Good to see it again. I'm
so happy ... - He stopped, embarrassed.
- What? - Fear crushed his heart with his cold.
- Where is Anton?
- Traveled to Holland to attend the funeral of a friend, and I do not
know when he comes back - the woman said, sorry for her.
Almost felt so sorry about Anton those last weeks. Poor Miss.
Stewart ... never seen anyone so desolate.
Lorna thought calmly. I was disappointed, but would wait for
Anton, as he waited for her.
- Mrs. Gray, I go to my house and back in an hour, bringing all my
clothes. I will move here. And when he gets back, we're getting
married. - She spoke confidently, without any space for women to
resist. - No need to worry. I take responsibility.
Mrs.. Gray agreed immediately, containing the smile.
- When you arrive, you find the tea ready.
- The problem is that we do not know how to contact him
- Mrs. Gray commented concerned, some time later, when she
Lorna and her husband were taking tea in the kitchen. - He called
last week, warning that would be a few days with a friend. But I
suppose we could call his father.
- No - Lorna said firmly - if he calls, do not say I'm here. I. .. I want
to make a surprise.
In fact, I see the expression on his face, and Mr.. and Mrs.. Gray
immediately understood.
- Mr.. Anton has been very good for us - the woman said.
- Actually, I'm not a perfect cook.
- I wish I could cook like you kitchen. Has much to teach me -

Lorna said with sincerity.

Understood perfectly well with the couple. Now, had nothing to do
but wait for Anton.
During the following days, she only doubted once, when she
thought of the friend with whom Anton was. It would be a friend?
An old passion?
Other than that, she was happy, waiting. At night I slept in the bed
of Anton, thinking that soon he would be there. He worried about
trivia such as which side of the bed he would prefer if he used an
electric razor or razor blade. Think never spent a night with him. It
seemed impossible! As the wanted! How I wish that he loved her!
I wanted to belong to him completely, body and soul.
The days followed one another ... no, they dragged. But Lorna did
not think that Anton could take much longer. Walking with the
dogs, read in his studio, enjoying the house, the land around.
bought flowers, some plants, and kept busy all the time.
Anton returned home in the middle of the night. It was the sixth
night after Lorna had moved. And how does the expected, not
because he had called, had gone to sleep as usual.
Anton opened the front door and went directly. Was exhausted. In
fact, pick out a foolish flight of the night, instead of waiting for the
next day. But nothing else mattered now. Henceforth, would sink
at work. Would try to forget it, even though almost impossible.
It happened when he reached the top of the stairs. He stood,
feeling that he was not alone. There was someone else in the
house. He had come straight up, lit the hall light, but heard no
noise. His eyes looked all around, as he walked into the room. It
could only be your imagination. When parked the car, the dogs
came to receive him, wagging their tails. No one could have
entered with them out there.
So when he put his hand on the doorknob, he knew. Had not seen
her car, but I knew she was there. It was perfectly still, feeling his
heart beat wildly. Neither attempted to control him.

Was radiant. She was there, waiting. How long was he waiting
for? He opened the door slowly, letting the light from outside
illuminated the room. It was a moment looking at the outline of her
body in bed in his bed, in their bed. Then he lit a lamp and stood
beside her. Yet she did not wake. The barking of dogs, the noise
of the car, the lights, had not aroused.
He smiled, unable to look away from that face. Think only seen
her once before sleeping in your car! How beautiful she was! He
touched lightly on his shoulder and instantly her eyes opened.
What was going on with your breath? with the beats of your
heart? He could no longer control himself. He could not control
the joy I felt to see her. But he still had control over the mind.
Would wait until she could say why he was there. Be there to say
I wanted him as a friend and lover, and nothing else? Or
because ...
Lorna blinked several times because of the light and began to
stretch, incredibly provocative, the thin nightgown revealing her
breasts. But Anton did not move a muscle. Finally she opened her
eyes and he was sure that not waited in vain. It was there, in
beautiful green eyes, what we had wanted. Those eyes! When
told by her, always said what she was feeling. Turn them so many
emotions reflected ... Anger, fear, worry, love. Love! Yes, I'd seen
love before, but never so much love!
He sat up in bed, hugging her as she also embraced. It took a
long time before that Lorna could talk.
- Anton! Anton! I was so stupid, so utterly stupid, my love. Will you
forgive me? I do not know ... I said many foolish things to Eve .. Continued non-stop talking, talking incoherently. Was aware of it,
but could not stop. Had so much to say so much! I had to explain
to him, make him understand.
- Calm down, honey. - Anton moved her hair from his forehead,
seeing her eyes full of tears. - Calm down. I know pretty much
everything that you passed.
- No - she backed off a bit - I have to explain. I was so selfish,
Anton. Will you forgive me? These last weeks have been terrible

for you, my dear. I know, because I have been to me. But for
me ... was necessary for me because I brought up this.
- This?
- Discovering how much I love you. - She looked at him anxiously.
- I did not think of anything else except you. And the more he
thought, the more loved. He told Eve that did not want to marry
you, because I liked my freedom. But these last few weeks have
shown me that I am not free nor independent. My place is with
you now. Beside.
He tucked it more, stroking her hair, happy with her outburst.
Lorna loved him enough, and that was all that mattered. Perhaps
always been loved enough, perhaps simply afraid to admit it to
herself.
- And you know what I said to Eve? He said he could only trust
myself. What nonsense! I almost ruined my life! I do not know
how I lived without you all this time. But he was afraid of my
happiness, my future in the hands of another person.
- Lorna went off to see his eyes, to see that special smile he had.
- But it is a commitment by both sides is Anton? You will do
exactly the same thing.
- Of course. - He pulled her closer, kissing her very lightly, just as
she once did, the first time they had kissed ... long.
- I am your - "she murmured - body and soul.
There was more anxiety in the eyes of Lorna, but he wanted her
to smile again.
- What you said about body and soul? She laughed, a laugh
malicious.
- But, darling, you must be very tired after the trip ...
- I am. - Anton stood, taking the coat back to her.
- Hey, this was not what you should talk - she complained. Anton, Anton!
He laughed in her indignation, and turned serious to look at it.
Lorna was standing beside the bed, naked and beautiful soft light
the lamp. His blood throbbed with desire as she walked slowly
towards him. But put his hands in his pockets and looked away

from it.
- No use, Lorna. There is nothing you can do to cheer me up.
- Really? - She slipped her hands under the fabric of it, sticking
his body to his body. - Something tells me you're lying ... So it's no
use playing the difficult.
Then Anton surrendered. Stopped fighting it and against the
desire that consumed him. Lorna also did not fight more. His past
was buried and now had come to happiness.
End