Page 34 - beyond-hate

30.

But the Amerasian's reflex is faster. He can deflect the knife with his
arm, even though, in the process of doing so, the very sharp blade
draws blood as it glances away.

THE MAN then grabs the old man's hand and pulls him closer to punch

him in the face. The two men see each other's faces up close in the
twilight and recognize each other. The old man screams.

THE MAN
I will kill you, you barbaric
Amerasian! I must kill you!

The Amerasian maintains his iron grip on the man's arm but his eyes
appear troubled. He stammers:

THE AMERASIAN
Please... forgive me... I didn't do
it intentionally. I truly love your
daughter... I plan to come to see
you tomorrow...

The Amerasian regains his composure. He gently relaxes his grip. The
man is surprised. His anger seems to have left him. He, too, stammers:

THE MAN
What... what did you say? You are
in love?

The Amerasian bends down to the man's level since he is about a head
taller. He then speaks in a pleading voice.

THE AMERASIAN
Yes. I love your daughter, but I
did a bad and unwise thing. I
committed a crime, and I must take
responsibility. I won't run away
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from it.
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