Page 32 of Web of Dreams (Casteel 5)

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understand when I took this action," she added and

shook her head as if she had just slipped out from

under some terribly heavy load.

"Well I don't understand," I snapped. "I'll never

understand. Never." I hoped that my words fell like

daggers. She pulled her shoulders back and her eyes

widened with fire.

"Exactly what did your father tell you?" "That you left us to think things over and he

received a telegram from you that you had flown to

Mexico to get a divorce."

"And did he tell you why?"

"He said you were very disappointed in him

and you were still young and wanted a chance to be

happy. But why can't you be happy with Daddy?" I

moaned.

"Now Leigh, you've got to try to understand my

point of view. It should be easier for you to

understand now that you are becoming a woman

yourself.

"You don't know, you can't imagine what it's

been like for me these last few years. Whenever your

father takes me on one of his cruises it's been because

he wanted to make an impression . . to use me for his

own advantage. I've felt like a caged bird, encased in a

gilded cage, yes, but nevertheless, imprisoned." Imprisoned? What did she mean? She could

come and go as she wanted, buy whatever she wanted,

do whatever she wanted. We had such a beautiful

home, I couldn't imagine anyone thinking of it as a

prison.

"The other passengers pity me, Leigh. I see it in

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