There had been time to think since leaving the party, and once out of Larreau's horrible, dominating presence, Madeleine realized she could not keep their wicked appointment the next day; she just couldn't give herself to that foul beast… yet, if she didn't, he had threatened to bring harm to both Igat and herself. She didn't care about herself… but her baby… her baby meant more than anything in the whole world.
Dear Antoine… Antoine… please come and help me? I need you so badly. Help me tell you my dreaded secret this very night… Be understanding… forgiving… and take us away from here before some terrible thing happens to all of us through that evil man.
Quietly, Madeleine prayed for guidance and strength while she awaited the moment Antoine would join her. She must tell him about Igat… she must! Perhaps she should hold back the horrid secret of Uncle Gaston's outrageous act, for to tell Antoine that would only serve to rile the troubled waters even more so. Certainly, it could serve no other purpose than to arouse hatred… even vengeance of some nature, and God knows, she didn't want to strain their relationship any more than it was at this time, when they were yet to truly know each other, in love.
Once more, she began to toss restlessly on the bed. Why didn't he come now? At this moment she felt certain she could tell everything from the very beginning and make him realize. Yes, she would even tell him about M. Keel, the first iniquitous brute to bring her heartbreak. It was the only way… recount it all in full… everything and pray to God that he would try to understand.