Page 76 - RotalTutor

raced with many dreadful thoughts. The three men continued walking their horses toward the gate. Alexander sat tall and straight on Lady. The people were waving, and, as they reached the gate, Alexander turned in his saddle to wave back. He seemed to be searching the crowd - gazing among the people. She suddenly realized he was looking for her. Where was the messenger? The doubts started coming faster and faster. She was ready to deliver the message herself when, as Alexander was disappearing from sight, a young man came running full speed through the court yard. Dodging through the people, he ran swiftly after the three men. The crowd, sensing something was happening, collectively held their breath. It seemed like forever to Louse before the men returned. The crowd cheered as news spread that Alexander would be staying. Alexander searched the crowd more vigorously, as if he knew why he had returned, and then he saw her. Their eyes met, and he smiled. She returned his smile as she melted into the shadows of the balcony. Louise’s parents stayed for two more days. She made sure not to show any kind of affinity for Alexander. That was hard for her, because she now found herself yearning to be with him as much as possible. Louise tried very hard to get along with her father during those two days, and, indeed, found a closeness to him she hadn’t enjoyed in a long time. He even accompanied her and 74