The Kiss

The Kiss by Kate Chopin Page A

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Authors: Kate Chopin
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to the same privileges as the family. Oh, I know it is absurd, uncalled for, to tell you this; undignified even," she was almost weeping, "but it makes so much difference to me what you think of-- of me." Her voice had grown very low and agitated. The misery had all disappeared from Brantain's face.
    "Then you do really care what I think, Miss Nathalie? May I call you Miss Nathalie?" They turned into a long, dim corridor that was lined on either side with tall, graceful plants. They walked slowly to the very end of it. When they turned to retrace their steps Brantain's face was radiant and hers was triumphant.
    * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
    Harvy was among the guests at the wedding; and he sought her out in a rare moment when she stood alone.
    "Your husband," he said, smiling, "has sent me over to kiss you. "
    A quick blush suffused her face and round polished throat. "I suppose it's natural for a man to feel and act generously on an occasion of this kind. He tells me he doesn't want his marriage to interrupt wholly that pleasant intimacy which has existed between you and me. I don't know what you've been telling him," with an insolent smile, "but he has sent me here to kiss you."
    She felt like a chess player who, by the clever handling of his pieces, sees the game taking the course intended. Her eyes were bright and tender with a smile as they glanced up into his; and her lips looked hungry for the kiss which they invited.
    "But, you know," he went on quietly, "I didn't tell him so, it would have seemed ungrateful, but I can tell you. I've stopped kissing women; it's dangerous."
    Well, she had Brantain and his million left. A person can't have everything in this world; and it was a little unreasonable of her to expect it.
Kate Chopin

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