Family Group

Jane arranged the daffodils and the willow in a large bowl and stood back to admire them. The shape and color of their beauty stirred her; she felt a passionate desire to be rid of all human beings and rely instead on the more constant rewards of nature. Although she fled from the imposing walls of her step-father's estate, she wondered if she'd ever really be free.

She sighed. Even here in her isolated haven there was no refuge. How could she have been so foolish as to believe that her escape would numb the pain that nearly broke her...when her beautiful half-sister took away the only love she ever knew! Brooding, she watched the panorama of a tree-framed sunset melt into night. Her thoughts settled on another dilemma. This new man...why would he court such a plain, meek girl? Fear crept into her heart. If she surrendered again, what price would she pay...?