Hartley rang the “McComus” bell. The door opened slowly, as if it wasn’t sure whether to trust him. He climbed the stairs. On the fourth floor he found Vivienne standing in the doorway. She smiled brightly and invited him inside.
Vivienne was twenty-one. She had golden-red hair, blue eyes, and a clear white face. She looked both strong and graceful. Her simple clothes made her appear like both a country girl and a lady.
“Vivienne,” said Hartley, “you didn’t answer my letter. I searched for a week to find you. Why did you keep me waiting?”
The girl looked out the window.
“Mr. Hartley, I don’t know what to say. I know life with you would have many advantages. Sometimes I think I would be happy. But other times, I am not sure. I am a city girl, and I am afraid of a quiet life in the suburbs.”
“My dear,” Hartley said with passion, “you will have everything you want. We can go to the city for theatres, shopping, and visits whenever you like. You can trust me.”
“Yes,” she said with a smile. “I know you are kind. Any girl will be lucky to marry you.”
Hartley’s heart filled with hope.
“Promise me, Vivienne. Come with me. You will never regret it.”
Vivienne sighed and looked at her hands. Hartley suddenly became suspicious.
“Tell me,” he asked, “is there someone else?”
Her face turned red.
“Yes, there is another man. But I have promised him nothing.”
“His name?” asked Hartley sharply.
“Townsend.”
Hartley’s jaw tightened.
“Rafford Townsend! After all I’ve done for him!”
Vivienne leaned out the window.
“His car has stopped below. He is coming now for my answer. Oh, I don’t know what to do!”
The doorbell rang. Hartley said firmly:
“Stay here. I will meet him.”
Townsend came up the stairs quickly. He stopped when he saw Hartley.
“Go back,” said Hartley, pointing to the stairs.
Townsend tried to smile. “What’s the problem, old friend?”
“Go back,” repeated Hartley. “The kill is mine.”
Townsend pretended he had come to see a plumber, but finally he left, angry.
Hartley returned to Vivienne.
“I must have you,” he said. “No more delays.”
“When do you want me?” she asked.
“Now. As soon as you are ready.”
She looked at him seriously.
“Do you think I would come while Hloise is still in your house?”
Hartley felt shocked.
“She shall go,” he said. “I will send her away tonight.”
“Then,” said Vivienne, “my answer is yes.”
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