What kind of relationship dis March have with Richard when they were youngsters in the novel, Here on Earth?

March first knows Richard as the brother of her friend, Belinda. When Hollis leaves and March spends years waiting for him, he visits and brings her candy and books. March assumes he is looking out for her because charity comes naturally to him. When she dances with Richard at her brother's wedding, she notices his lovestruck expression. He becomes bolder in his courtship and asks her to marry him. She initially says no, but later followed him to California.