“What a surprise!” Vronsky’s voice sounded from behind them. Anna shut her eyes, at once furious Vronsky would dare to do this right now and elated she would get to see his face again. She turned slowly and there he was, standing before her, his unruly scarf once again touching the ground. If she reached out her hand, she could touch his face. He was so close to her and yet there was a vast chasm between them.

Alexander looked confused at the young man standing before them and put his arm around his girlfriend’s shoulders. Anna stepped to the side, shaking off his hand. “We were on the same train?” she said softly, framing her words as a question for her boyfriend’s benefit.

“Alexander, this is Alex Vronsky. Beatrice’s cousin from the city. Alex, this is my boyfriend, Alexander.” Her words came out in a rush and she tried hard not to stare at Vronsky for too long, knowing she wouldn’t be able to keep a smile off her face.

“Oh, yes. Pleasure to meet you,” Alexander said, shaking Vronsky’s hand after taking off his charcoal mittens. “What brings you to Greenwich so early?” His voice was low and serious as if he alone oversaw all who entered his city. Anna, normally not a catty girl, couldn’t help rolling her eyes as she took in the scene before her. What man wears mittens? Just because your half-sister knitted them for you, doesn’t mean you have to wear them. Why must you always placate Eleanor like she’s still a child?

“I missed my uncle’s birthday dinner a few nights ago and decided to surprise him,” Vronsky replied, so casually that Anna herself had a moment of doubt wondering if perhaps this was his reason for being on the train, and not her. “He gets up early, my uncle.” Vronsky proceeded to mimic a golf swing, which if he held a club would have conveniently brained Alexander.

“You left with the mother and came back with the son,” Alexander reported with a tight smile, pleased at himself for his wit. He glanced at Anna like a proud dog that had just laid a stick at her feet.

Anna nodded and tightened her grip on Alexander’s arm, suggesting it was time for them to leave. She was desperate for this torture to be over. If she didn’t leave now she was afraid of what she might do. She was feeling so odd, so unlike herself. You’re just tired. You haven’t had enough sleep. Everything is fine. Just say good-bye and then you can forget this whole ridiculous night.