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Page 162
aware only of her response to him; when they were separated, her brain began to function again. Originally she had thought about the events and conversation of the afternoon to relive her pleasure, but as she replayed them, a number of odd facts stood out.
For example, how did the reversal of their positions on the subject of secrecy come about? Peter had started by insisting they conceal their relationship from his aunt. Before the afternoon was over, it was Linda who was insisting on secrecy and Peter who was complaining about the need for it.
Looked at from one angle, his reversal was natural. He had raised a problem he wanted to be talked out of and instead Linda had agreed with him. Still, the turnabout made Linda uncomfortable. Had she somehow been maneuvered into the position? Was Peter's seemingly naked emotion only playacting?
The following afternoon, Linda still had not answered either question and was still pushing them out of her mind frequently. She had just returned her attention to the packed luggage in Mrs. Bates's room when a pair of strong arms went around her and a man's beard scratched her face while his lips were pressed to her throat.
"Ulp!" Linda exclaimed unromantically.
"Hmmm. Good. I've been wanting to do that all day."
"Peter! Your aunt"
"Is downstairs in the lobby having a cuppa. I was sent up to remind you that the blue dressing

 
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