34: RepercussionsAll the way back into town Jack puzzled over Gertrude’s reaction. She had let him have his way with her – how was he to know that she didn’t want to make love? He thought they were both seeking comfort in each other. A convenient arrangement. And he’d had no clue that she was in love with him. She had given no hint. She had been a friend to him, never coquettish. How was he expected to read her mind?.
He walked on, quickening his pace, feeling more aggrieved with every step. Gertrude’s behaviour was unreasonable. She was an intelligent woman so should understand that he could never offer her love when that was reserved for Eliza alone – but why not share some pleasure, intimacy, closeness? He was, after all, fond of her. He liked her. Very much. Why was that not enough fo
