> -----Original Message-----
> From: Melinda Martin [mailto:mariannia@...]
>
> "Why would you be sorry?" Mariel spoke, staring down
> at the letter. She gave it a look that someone would
> give dung and ignored his handing it to her. "I don't
> want it back. Trust me that I've got the contents of
> it well memorized."

V. had studied the young woman's eyes for long moments before he
realized that he was not only staring, but that he had completely
ignored no less than two direct questions and the beginnings of a story.
She had spoken a name, if he could only remember...

"I'm sorry for staring, and for speaking nonsense. You see, I find
myself drawn to those who have lost something and your eyes look more
lost than I have seen in a long time."

The woman was troubled, and V. looked down at the envelope in his hands,
as if the reason she had rejected it was written on the surface. No
reasons were found, but he did see a name written in neat but overly
ornate letters. 'M' then a couple somethings then a tall letter... An
el. Mariel. That was the name she had spoken to him.

"Mariel, " he said, glad that he wouldn't have to ask and embarress
himself further, "it seems that you are in need of a friend. I don't
know if I can help, but I'm a good listener." Just at that moment,
Winter approached and asked if he could get them anything. "Why don't
we sit and have something to eat and drink, and maybe you'll feel like
talking."

Turning to the bartender, V. asked "Please bring something warming for
the lady, Irish coffee for myself, and if it's not too much trouble some
comfort food from the kitchen."

V. gently took Mariel's arm and led her away from the damp chill of the
window to a table closer to the fireplace.

=============
Verloren