Chapter 6: The Dinner And The AftermathThe next evening, Marika was sent to open the door for Victor Manfred when he knocked. She did so with a smile on her face and in her green eyes. “Won't you come in Mr. Manfred?” She was certain her mother was going to pester him with questions and hints for funding and wondered how he would handle that.
Victor handed her his hat and smiled at her. He was but an inch or two taller. “Why thank you, Mistress Strauss, but I would be delighted if you were to call me Victor.”
“Why, why, of course.”
“And if I could call you Marika, it would eliminate any confusion when I say Mistress Strauss.” Somehow, he was still holding onto her hand.
Marika withdrew the hand and took his hat to the closet. She turned to see Victor still looking at her with an expect
