she toasted, "and, to a growing friendship."
70 Thundering Dove saluted her, and drank deeply. "Perhaps I am being
brash," continued Bay Blossom, "but I was wondering if you had a woman."
71 "I have no close associations," answered Thundering Dove.
72 "Then perhaps you would not mind." stammered Bay Blossom.
73 Thundering Dove looked startled. "You are several years my senior,"
he remarked, "and also, I am your superior. I would not want it thought
that I took advantage of my position, that I expected anything of you
because you're a woman."
74 "I see," sighed Bay Blossom. "I'm sure no one would even consider
such a thing. I, myself, would not even be here, if I thought you expected it. It is obvious you did
not.
75 I have always known I would like a man from the moment I saw him,
but I find my feelings for you are far deeper than a liking.
76 I have kept company with a couple of men, and had other friends, but
the moment I saw you, the way you treated people, you knew you had command, and you expected them
to know it. But you let them know immediately that you valued their
opinion and respected their positions.
77 I guess you have told me MY position. I'm sorry I offended you, I
will not in the future."
78 "You DIDN'T offend me!" snapped Thundering Dove. "Far from it! You
are very beautiful and your offer pleases me. It's just ....that ….I…"
79 Bay Blossom covered her mouth. "Oh, my Lord!" she gasped, "You've
never...you haven't…..oh, you must think I'm a whore! I thought surely
a man YOUR age... of course! You want to court some sweet young thing,
take time and learn the secrets of love together."