Flight of the Monarch

"How dare you make such an assumption!"

"I should not have been so foolish as to come."

"Foolish, indeed!"

"I came, Hayley, because I thought you were my friend." He said softly. Austin walked toward the door and paused as he stood beside her. With her head bowed, he reached out to touch her cheek. As they looked into each other's eyes, neither of them spoke.

Austin left the room slowly. Hayley thought to chase him, before she heard the door close behind him.

A few days later: Mr. Lawrence arrived from Kingston. As usual, he brought more books for Hayley to read and was disappointed to see that she was not enthusiastic to receive them.

As Hayley lay on the sofa, flipping through one of the books, her father spoke.

"Have you gotten over the lad?"

Hayley was jolted by the question and her shocked expression made him wish he had kept silent.

"It would be more accurate to say he has gotten over me. I do have more important ways to spend my time."

"Maddie tells me that he has called off the wedding.

Do you know why he did such a thing?"

"Why are you asking me? Perhaps you should ask Maddie."

"It sounds as though you are both still at odds with each other."

"I am not at odds with anyone, Father." Hayley threw down the book and dashed for the door.

"Hayley."

She stopped and turned around. "I only want you to be happy---and I want to be able to help you in whatever way I can."

"I do need your help.I only hope that when I do ask, you will be willing to provide it."

"Ask me now Hayley. What do you need?"

"Your cooperation."

"You have my complete cooperation, always. Surely, you know that."

"I do now. Thank you." She smiled and left the room.

_ _

"Mother, we need to talk." Austin blurted.

"What is it son?"

"Please, sit down and relax for a moment." He motioned for her to sit down.

"Relax? Dear, surely you understand how consumed I am with your wedding arrangements."

"That is what I need to discuss with you."

"Do not concern yourself with the matter, I told you I will take care of everything."

Austin raised his voice as though he had not been heard. "Mother please! Just listen and don't say anything until I have finished."