Yet Clara realised that Morel was withdrawing from the circle, leaving her the option to stay with her husband.

It angered her.

He was a mean fellow, after all, to take what he wanted and then give her back.

She did not remember that she herself had had what she wanted, and really, at the bottom of her heart, wished to be given back.
Paul felt crumpled up and lonely.

His mother had really supported his life.