Chapter 26

Rhett did not appear at all after his furious outburst. Scarlett had expected to enter their cabin, drunk and at his sarcastic best. But he didn't. So, late that evening, she dressed in her finest gowns and strolled to the dining hall for a late glass of wine. Scarlett felt upset over Rhett's apparent rejection but she wasn't in despair. She had seen that infinitesimal change in Rhett's eyes and her instinct told her that she had finally made a significant impression on him. It wasn't Rhett's outburst that bothered her so much as his utter lack of the romantic qualities that she had attributed to him. Somehow she had associated his passionate love-making with the gentle tenderness of Ashley and she had carelessly assumed that Rhett could be tender too. Why, even Rhett had vowed that he could have loved Scarlett gently and tenderly. But now she was beginning to doubt it. She was beginning to doubt several things about Rhett and the man who was taking form before her eyes wasn't anything like she imagined Rhett to be. And yet she was in love with him. Even more than ever.

And she could not fathom the reason why.

Rhett's strong bulky form slid across the table and he threw a cursive glance in Scarlett's direction and ordered a glass of wine for himself as well. As soon as Scarlett's eyes fell on Rhett, she stifled a triumphant smile. It wouldn't do any good to be smug now. But she was relieved that she had been right. Rhett used his cruelty and his fierce temper to maintain his independence. To argue with him would be to fan a flame. The flame would only grow brighter and hotter. No wonder she had lost so many verbal battles. But now, she had him right where she wanted him. At long last!

When Rhett finally opened his mouth to speak, he was respectful and courteous.

"Scarlett, can you forgive me-"

"Oh, its all right, Rhett" replied Scarlett, quickly. She dimpled and fluttered her eyelids demurely.

For once Rhett could not dismiss her manners to be flirtatious or mere coquetry. He smiled sheepishly. "I don't know how you can forgive me so quickly-"

"I admit I was hurt - you hurt me badly, Rhett. But I see your temper is the problem. It's a problem but nothing that can't be fixed- "

Rhett quickly rose to his feet and laying his hands on Scarlett's shoulders, he gently prompted her outside to the deck. As soon as they stood by the rails, he drew her to himself by the shoulders and kissed her.