“I knew you would be here, you would come! I knew you⁠—you.⁠ ⁠…”

The spears of her eyelashes moved apart to let me in and⁠ ⁠… how can I describe what effect that ancient, absurd and wonderful rite has upon me when her lips touch mine? Can I find a formula to express that whirlwind which sweeps out of my soul everything, everything save her? Yes, yes from my soul . You may laugh at me if you will.

She made an effort to raise her eyelids and her slow words too came with an effort:

“No. Now we must go.”

The door opened. Old, worn steps. An unbearably multicolored noise, whistling and light.⁠ ⁠…