This quote paints a poignant picture of unspoken longing and emotional scars hidden beneath the surface of a seemingly ordinary encounter. The imagery of watering her garden and her clematis getting soaked symbolizes a moment of tenderness and vulnerability in her daily life. As she dreams of melting into Jag Silvertree's face, there's an underlying desire to connect deeply, yet a realization that such intimacy is unlikely to be reciprocated or even possible. The shift in tone after the second encounter reveals how her perception of Jag has shifted from hopeful to somber; she recognizes she will never feel the physical connection she craves, emphasizing a sense of restriction or emotional separation. The metaphor about Jag carrying a hurt significant enough to stand out among wounded soldiers underscores the depth of his pain—possibly beyond what is apparent on the surface. It suggests that his internal scars are profound, overshadowing any visible wounds others might notice. This awareness adds a layer of compassion and melancholy to the story, illustrating how individuals often hide suffering that can be felt even in moments of mundane interaction. The quote resonates as a reflection on the quiet tragedies we all carry, that beneath the surface of acquaintances or even loved ones, there might lie unspoken wounds that define who they are and influence their interactions.

---Marie Wilson---