why."
92 North understood, though. With the other women in the houses it had
been nothing serious, just two people enjoying each-other's company. There was no attempt of a long
relationship. But this was different. He wanted this woman's company,
always.
93 His love for his first wife was not diminished in the slightest, but
he knew without a doubt, that he was also deeply in love with this
woman. The Old Hashon had told him such things occurred, that his own
race often had two or three wives, and sometimes other lovers, besides, that
it didn't diminish the love between any of the partners.
94 "Love," he explained, "TRUE love, cannot be bound between two people
alone. It is often destiny that we are to share our lives with several
companions."
95 North had thought this foolish but he was beginning to realize The
Hashons had wisdom his people hadn't even touched. He returned his
thoughts to his companion. "You're in love with me," he explained,
''I'm in love with you. With the others it was only a thing in passing,
nothing to be concerned with. But now commitments have been
made, silent promises given. It is more than simply a passing
acquaintance."
96 "I can't be responsible," Sweet Cloud objected, "for a man putting
out his wife. If you're even considering that, forget it!"
97 "I'd NEVER consider that,'' assured North. "I still love her as much
as I ever did. I just love you, also. I have a lot of explaining to do,
and there's some things you have to know. But if you want it,
arrangements can be made so we can be together and no one will question
it."
98 Sweet Cloud looked nervous. "You mean I'll be your mistress," she
sighed, ''never your wife. Well, I guess that's the best I can hope
for, isn't it?" She smiled and took his hand across the table. "It will
be