[Then suppressing an outbreak of hysterical triumphant laughter only by a tremendous effort]
Ha-ha . . . only I better knock wood . . .
[She raps with both knuckles in a fierce tattoo on the table]
before God the Father hears my happiness! . . .
Evans
[As the three turn to her—anxiously]
Nina? What’s the matter?
Nina
[Controlling herself with a great effort comes to him—forcing a smile—puts her arms around him affectionately]
Nothing, dear. Nerves, that’s all. I’ve gotten over-tired, I guess.
Evans
[Bullying her—with loving authority]
Then you go right to bed, young lady! We’ll excuse you.
Nina
[Quietly and calmly now]
All right, dear. I guess I do need to rest.
[She kisses him as she might kiss a big brother she loved—affectionately]
Good night, you bossy old thing, you!
Evans
[With deep tenderness]
Good night, darling.
Nina
[She goes and kisses Charlie dutifully on the cheek as she might her father—affectionately]
Good night, Charlie.
