For Love or Country: The MacGregor Legacy | Book 2 by Jennifer Hudson Taylor Read Free Book Online Page B

it.” Hugh waved his hand to make light of the matter. The last thing he wanted was to cause problems for the MacGregor family. The sooner they left the better. It was selfish of him to stay because he wanted to be near Miss MacGregor. If he left with the soldiers now, he could spare the family from divulging their loyalty to the Continentals. “I am sure Mrs. MacGregor would not mind us borrowing her wagon so I could have a place to lie down when we return to headquarters.”
    “That will not be necessary. After seeing the condition of your injury, I shall remain here with you for the duration.” Private Truitt walked to the door. “In fact, I intend to order the MacGregors to prepare your bath now. This oversight shall be remedied right away.”
    ***
    Tyra’s nerves gnawed on her insides like a rat caught in a bin full of grain. To break their fast, her mother had made biscuits while she cooked the eggs and bacon. The smell of freshly brewed coffee floated in the kitchen, but they were now short on what sugar they had been saving. The two British soldiers left yesterday with their wagon loaded. They took bags of flour, salt, sugar, four caged chickens, and tied a cow to the back. At least her father and brothers had taken the extra horses or the British would have taken those as well. The redcoats left them with only one horse, and she supposed she should be grateful. They had Captain Morgan to thank. He had talked them into leaving it here.
    When Private Truitt ordered a bath for Captain Morgan, Tyra felt chastised she had not offered him the opportunity before now. Any movement had been difficult for him and a hint of pride swelled in his words whenever she or her mother needed to help him. With Kirk as the only male around to assist him, Tyra thought it best to spare him, but now she wondered if she had been wrong. Private Truitt had made no effort to hide his disappointment.
    She wished the man had returned to town with the others. Now she and her family were stuck not only serving Captain Morgan, but Private Truitt under his watchful scrutiny. Every word, action, and behavior could spark unwanted questions, especially where Kirk was concerned. The lad was at an awkward age, lacking in judgment.
    “Mrs. MacGregor, this smells delicious.” Private Truitt arrived in the kitchen with Captain Morgan leaning on his arm. “We thank you for the fine care you are giving us.”
    “Yer verra welcome, gentlemen.” She nodded as she set a plate of biscuits on the table. “’Tis the least we can do.”
    “Not if your husband and sons are sacrificing their lives with the Tory militia,” Private Truitt said. “You are doing quite much.”
    Tyra stiffened as she whirled to meet his gaze, standing several inches taller than the soldier, even in his black boots. Captain Morgan must have seen the fire in her eyes, for he tried to take a step on his injured leg and swayed. The motion caught Private Truitt’s attention as he bent to further assist his captain. “If you will simply lead me to a chair, I think I can manage to eat breakfast this morning with everyone.” He met Tyra’s gaze over the soldier and winked at her. Relief flowed through Tyra as her cheeks warmed. With the simple and deliberate act, Captain Hugh managed to spare her the need of answering while distracting Private Truitt.
    “Of course, sir.” Private Truitt helped him limp to the nearest chair at the table. “I shall begin working on a walking stick for you today.”
    “That would be splendid. The more independent I can be, the better,” Captain Morgan rubbed his hands as he gazed at the plate of bacon and scrambled eggs. “Indeed, this does smell inviting.”
    “Captain, would you like a glass of milk or a cup of warm coffee?” Mama asked, pausing to look over her shoulder.
    “Coffee, please. Ever since I have been away from the mother country, I have developed a keen taste for strong coffee.” His gaze slid to Tyra’s, but she turned