For some time now, Tristan had wondered how he could ever have been such an arse to Pippa. The girl meant well. She was all alone. He should have been kinder to her. Shouldn't have lost his temper so often. While she was sick and while she was talking about the loss of her family, it was almost unimaginable that he should have ever been anything but a compassionate friend.

Quote:"If that is what you wish to tell yourself, then far be it for me to stop you..."

And then the monster roared its head. Who the hell was she, to pry into the most intimate parts of his being? To demand he'd divulge secrets he wouldn't share with his own family! What right had she to ask that he'd bare his soul, just because she chose to show hers? It was this type of disregard for his privacy and comfort that enraged him. The same disregard his sister had displayed repeatedly. God, no wonder they got along so well! Tristan's hand balled to a fist in his lap.

Oh yes, she had it harder as a woman in this situation! Foolish child! What did she know? If the nature of her feelings for her friend ever became public, her sex and age would protect her. It was not a crime for her. And who cared about a youthful misstep? Yes, there'd be gossip and raised eyebrows at two schoolgirls being all too affectionate. Some might find the idea amusing. Some gentleman no doubt would find it titillating. But that would be all. The folly of two schoolgirls. Had she any idea of what could happen to him if she blabbed?

He wanted to walk away and lock himself in his practice to brood. Instead, he forced his hand to relax. She was right, she was pregnant, and that was a hurdle. And he should remember that her mind was that of a pregnant woman. Clearly she wasn't all there. He sat by her side stiffly.

"You need not decide now." Was the most compassionate thing he could utter when she bent over in what looked like a new crying fit.