The Sun Rises (Southern Legacy Book 4) by Jerri Hines Read Free Book Online Page B

She realized she could not leave things as they were, but Andrew had urged caution. After breakfast…after breakfast, I will go see Grace Ann and explain myself.
    She had only eaten two bites of her egg s when she sensed an intrusion to her peace. When she looked up, she found Mr. Whitney in the center of the room. He barely glanced at her and appeared annoyed.
    Pulling out a chair from the table, he sat and placed his hat down in front of him. She need not be told she was about to be admonished for her behavior the previous day. Suddenly, she felt like a young girl who had ripped and dirtied her good dress before church.
    “Would you like for me to send for another plate?”
    “No, it is not necessary. Are you finished? I would like to take a small stroll in the garden with you.”
    Something in his expression told her that she had no choice. Something she had never seen before in him, something ruthless.
    “I have only to inform Rosa to care for Madeline.”
    Mr. Whitney waited impatiently, twisting his hat in his hand. When she returned, he accompanied her to a bench in the inn’s dormant garden. A chill wind blew, but he made no effort to see to her comfort.
    “I understand that you witnessed an unfortunate occurrence.”
    “I would say more of a disturbing sight, Mr. Whitney…one that I could not ignore.”
    Acknowledgment of that fact registered in his face, but his expression did not soften. “It would have been for the best if you had. You had no right to take the boy.”
    Her soulful eyes widened with shock. She wasn’t certain she heard him correctly. “I did what I thought right, Mr. Whitney. You were not there and did not see what occurred. I’m not certain that Mr. Syms has been truthful with you. He…was chasing…the boy with dogs! The poor thing was covered in filth. Battered and…”
    “That’s enough, Josephine. I will deal with the matter. Now please turn the boy back over to me and we will forget this nasty business ever occurred.”
    “He is ill,” Jo began.
    “Let me remind you, he is not your concern. Don’t believe because of our connection, I will turn my back on your actions. This matter needs to be dealt with promptly.”
    She looked at him and saw his severe countenance. His dark eyes narrowed. Slowly, she comprehended he did not care about her explanation, only a twisted revenge.
    “Explain it to me then, Mr. Whitney, because for the life of me you have me at a loss. This is a five-year-old boy…”
    “A slave…that nigger’s boy…she destroyed my family. Killed my boy…my grandchildren.”
    A bilious sensation churned in her stomach. The words she had conjured to salve his anger suddenly struck her as useless. He was blinded by a merciless rage against anything and everything connected to the rebellion.
    “Sir, I can’t believe my ears. Surely, you are not suggesting holding the actions of others against a young lad.” She took a deep breath in before her fragile courage wavered. “A lad who is obviously your grandson. You know this as well as I. Grace Ann told me herself on my prior visit. One look and it is obvious. Isn’t it the reason why Willy…”
    Abruptly, she realized her mistake.
    Rigid in his seat, he said, “Watch your mouth, young lady. After all I have done for you, show me the respect I deserve.”
    “ Mr. Whitney, I have always admired and respected you...why, I love you for all you have done for me...but this...this I can’t accept. I won’t.”
    “It is not for you to decide. Despite those damn Yankees’ proclamation, my slaves aren’t free. Don’t make me go to the authorities.”
    “Would you? Is that why you are here? I know it couldn’t possibly be the boy. He is only a means to expel the anger and frustration you are feeling at the moment.” Confidence in her voice contrasted her trembling hands. She gripped them tightly, hoping he wouldn’t notice. “You are lashing out your frustration…when your family needs you the