She avoided Liesl as much as possible. She was too distracting from the work. If only Grete had a proper companion, an equal to explore ideas. However, as she yet again made her excuses after the evening meal two days out of Rotterdam, Liesl followed her and cornered her on the deck, shielded from the cold Atlantic wind behind a life-boat. She peered up and down the deserted deck, leaned in close, and spoke in a low voice.
“Aunt Grete, I have met someone. A Dutch sailor on the ship. He is in love with me and would take me with him back to Holland, but he says it’s too risky for us there. I think actually he’s married, but doesn’t want to say.”
“Why do you tell me this?” Grete snapped. “What foolishness to get entangled at such a time! You must forget this nonsense.”
Liesl pressed her li
