Chapter 96

“Yes, I know. And it can’t be too soon for me.” She plopped in a chair on the porch and stuck her feet out in front of her; a public posture I suspect would have caused her acute embarrassment back on her father’s plantation.

James dropped the bag he’d brought on the porch and went inside, returning moments later with the chubby baby in his arms. He indicated the supplies. “A few things you might have run short of.” He turned to Andre and laughed as Joseph poked a stubby finger in his ear. He was a beautiful baby with pouty little bow lips and a spray of golden angel’s hair already fading to a sand color.

“If you need aid, stand outside and fire three rifle shots in the air.” James said. “If you don’t hear a like reply, do it again. If we don’t answer, ride for us. At least one of us is usually on the farm, but it’s possible we could be inside and not hear your alarm.” He bussed the baby’s belly and laughed as the child squirmed and giggled.