here yet. The plane belongs to an English friend of his who married one of those rich girls from the best schools and families. She drinks like a fish. All those girls down there do. They try to play along with the men. Girls in show business take better care of themselves. Hugh says he and his friend are from very good English county families, and that American society is a big joke. He is very strict about what I do and punishes me if I don't toe the mark. I think that's probably what I need, and even that if I'm not in love with him I ought to try and make a go of it this time. I know he will help me because he believes in discipline. Nino would expect me to do it all by myself."
She paused uncertainly, seeing Vida expressionless.
"What I need most right now is a good long sleep," she concluded.
"And I have to get to work, I'll see you tonight," Vida said abruptly.
It was the first time, Lucy meditated unhappily, Vida had offered no opinion or consolation when I needed advice. She thinks I'm crazy. Not that I blame her. But I need someone to take me in hand and tell me what to do …
When Vida arrived home that night she found a note from Lucy saying that Hugh had come for her, and not to worry. She would phone in a day or two with her new address. Hugh wanted them to be alone for a few days.
Vida censured herself for having left that morning without exacting a promise from Lucy to make no quick decisions about Wickham whom, sight unseen, she disliked.
Three worried days of self-recrimination followed, and early the fourth morning Lucy hurried in to Hector's.
"I can't stay long. Hugh thinks I'm still asleep and he'll phone me from the office at ten thirty."
"Why didn't you at least phone?"
"I promised Hugh that for three days we'd be absolutely alone. And we were busy getting settled. We have an apartment on East 66th. We share the rent and expenses. He allows me to pay more than he does because he doesn't earn much, and I feel better doing it. After all, I can afford it. The only thing is, he doesn't like me to go out without him. I want you to meet him soon. But don't phone me. I'll phone you."
"All I want to know is, are you all right? I've been worried sick."
