To Purple Summers, it seemed like a matter of great importance, but Alexander Summers felt it was hardly an issue at all.
He was a man with little sense of propriety or shame, and he didn't see anything particularly scandalous about Atra Blanc's behavior. If his mom was happy, Alexander couldn't care less if she ran off with one man or even ten; if she wasn't happy, he'd resolve any irritants cleanly, allowing his mother to return in peace.
Purple's caution appeared utterly unnecessary to Alexander.
He even mocked her, "Clyde Summers preyed on your very caution and hesitation, which is why he has been so brazen."
"A woman's reputation is very important!" Purple argued, "You have thick skin, of course you wouldn't understand. Gossip can kill!"
Alexander said, "It would take Atra's life, but now she is Penelope Russell."
Purple was shut down.
She didn't want Atra to become Penelope Russell; she wanted Atra to come back, to reunite with their family.
...
