And something very deep within her awoke and made swift response almost before she knew.
"But I don't need to ask him, Max," she said.

"I know that for myself." "Really ?" said Max.
He stretched out his hand to her, without rising.

His manner had changed completely.

It was no longer passionate, but intensely quiet.
She came to him slowly, feeling compelled.

She laid her hand in his.
His eyes were still upon hers.