She wrote it out on a piece of paper and tucked it into her pocket. Then she smothered a yawn as she settled more comfortably in her chair.

"Oh, Charly, I'm sorry! I didn't realize it was so late. You must be tired, but I was enjoying myself so much I forgot you're still an invalid." Rising, he walked over to her, and placing his hands on the arms of her chair, leaned over and kissed her gently on the forehead. "I'll see myself out and I'll send you some dreams first thing tomorrow. Sleep well and dream well."

Before she could rise, he was gone up the stairs in several bounds, and she heard the door closing behind him. She knew why he hadn't wanted a lengthy goodbye. They were just too painful.