Peeking Under the Covers

With the closing of Chapter 8, it's easy to feel some of Suzy's relief and trepidation. In one way, she has dodged a marriage proposal from André, even if it did leave her with lingering uncertainty, and in another way, we see her finally show some adult courage. The good-byes at home and at the train feel like torture and agony for our dear little Suzy. Maybe all she really needed was a good night sleep after all of that. Perhaps that's why I like the last sentence to Chapter 8, " She no longer felt afraid as she looked to the future."  My hope (and I hope it's yours as well) is that Suzy finds some joy and happiness in the south of France. But first, we'll see a slight change in the cast of characters as we follow along with André for a bit! Chapter 9: Cast of Characters Suzanne (Suzy)   -- eldest daughter of M. and Mme. Douvry André Vilbert  -- friend of the family Mme. Vilbert -- André's mother Aunt Sylvie -- André's aunt M.   de   Guillancour...

Chapter 8 continued... André Vilbert, motionless near Suzy, had followed the whole scene playing out before him. His serious gaze enveloped the group formed by Georges and Suzy: he, with his aristocratic bearing, she, fine and elegant, appearing slender in her long traveling coat. They both came from the same world, and André felt horribly discouraged, seeing what a difference there was between him, so awkward, and this handsome young man whose proud face stood out from the thickness of his fur collar. A feverish bustle spread through the station, with the perpetual rolling of baggage carts and the movement of employees who circulated about, looking important under their braided caps. Passengers passed by, busy, calling out to each other, rushing into the train carriages where the temperature was warmer. The machine panted, ready to go. “All aboard, Messieurs! All aboard!” “My goodness,” Suzy whispered, suddenly thrown back into the feeling that the cruel moment to say good-bye had arr...