“That would be an exceptionally smart idea, Major Stevens,” she replied in a peevish tone. Had he made love to her for three days while heading for a woman who was eagerly awaiting his arrival? Had he stopped to enjoy her before reaching Wilmington, knowing that she would terminate their affair upon learning about his relationship with Molly? “It isn’t wise or safe to let me keep walking blindly and ignorantly into these kinds of private situations, as you did with Catherine Delany. Exactly how many beguiled women do you have waiting and pining for your next visit along our route?” she inquired sarcastically. She was angered by her tormenting suspicions about Blane’s misconduct while carrying out his secret missions.
Before he could reply, she scoffed, “I thought you told me you despised men who used their charms and lies to take advantage of naïve and gullible women. I thought you didn’t go around intentionally breaking hearts. If you sleep with some, or most, or all of your female sources, how do you know one of them doesn’t have a devoted brother searching for the father of his sister’s bastard child, just like you’re doing for Ellie? With your stamina and appetite and extensive travels, you could have several bastards waiting and hoping for their pa to do the honorable thing. The kettle seems as black as the pot he’s seeking.”
Blane was hurt and angry. He was also surprised and disappointed. Because he was unaccustomed to exposing and defending his personal thoughts, actions, and feelings, Blane’s voice had a razor edge when he responded to her insulting and accusatory remarks. “I see you’ve lowered your opinion of your partner very rapidly, without even giving him the benefit of telling his side. Since you’ve already judged me so black and guilty, maybe I shouldn’t waste my time and energy exonerating myself. But I will, because this matter is important. Considering how close we’ve been, how could you compare me even slightly to that low-down snake I’m seeking! Lord, Shannon, if you think I’m that kind of man, you don’t know me at all; and you sure as hell shouldn’t be traveling and sleeping with me,” he scolded her rashly.
He took a deep breath and continued. “Believe it or not, I’ve never slept with Cathy or Molly, or any of my female sources. Jeremy was only teasing me about her because she’s always after me. If he had known about us, he wouldn’t have done it. Maybe I am guilty of romancing vital information out of some women, but only when it’s absolutely necessary. Surely you’ve learned enough lately to know that romancing a woman and making love to one aren’t the same thing. I’ll admit I’ve had my share of female flesh before and during this war, but only from those who knew what was happening and knew how to protect themselves from unwanted complications. Every town has houses with experienced women who provide such treats for hungry men. I don’t go around charming and seducing naïve girls. The only innocent and trusting woman I’ve taken advantage of is Shannon Greenleaf, because I found her too damn irresistible. I don’t have any illegitimate children. But if I did—love the mother or not—I would marry her and give my child its rightful name.”
When Shannon tried to speak, Blane harshly silenced her. “Just listen! I’ve always let Molly carry on with her flirtations and enticements because I needed a safe house and help in Wilmington. But I’ve never given her any promises. I haven’t shown her more than gratitude for her assistance and friendly affection and enjoyment of her company. The same goes for Cathy. Damnit, Blue Eyes, this is war, not a game!” he verbally exploded, then berated himself for his loss of temper.
Again he silenced her attempt to speak, this time gently. “Please let me finish explaining this mess. Maybe I shouldn’t let them have even scant hopes or dreams about me, but I can’t bluntly or brutally spurn them. Maybe I am guilty of using them, but I’m doing it for the best of everyone, to get this country back together. Don’t you see, Flame? To women like Molly and Cathy, I’m somebody unique and appealing, somebody totally different from their husbands and brothers. With few unattached men available, they turn to me. In case you haven’t noticed, I’m not bad to look at and somewhat charming. Me and my work make them feel alive. We give them hope for peace and survival. We supply a little happiness and exictement. We make them feel important and useful, even patriotic. To them I’m a dashing rogue and a hero, a brave and clever spy, a man of mystery and prowess, a good catch for a future husband or current lover.”
Blane leaned toward Shannon and captured her hand. “Unless Molly’s found someone else to focus her attentions on, she’ll still be after me. Don’t you see, Flame; we’re too close to victory to endanger our lives and covers. We must let Molly carry on with her shameless pursuit, and we’ll have to keep her in the dark about us. Otherwise we could be letting ourselves in for bad trouble. Until we leave Wilmington, we have to put aside what’s between us.”
“But, Blane, how—”
He pressed his fingertips over her mouth. “Don’t argue about this matter, Flame. You promised to obey my orders, and this is an order. And don’t you go getting riled over how I have to behave with her and you, and show your jealousy. I had enough trouble settling down Cathy. Lord, Flame, Molly would see you arrested and hanged before she’d let you take me away from her right under her own roof.” His tone became husky and tender as he urged, “Please, Flame, don’t interfere in Molly’s games and dreams. Please believe me when I swear you’re the only woman I want in my bed and my arms. I’m mad and I’m hurt that you would believe such vile things about me. To tell the truth, I had forgotten about her with you around to claim my attention. She isn’t the reason we halted. I knew Pike would turn Wilmington upside down looking for us. I couldn’t risk us being seen entering town.”
Shannon imprisoned his fingers in her hand. “Will you listen to me for a moment or two, Major Stevens!” she demanded sharply. “I do believe you, and I apologize. It was foolish and unfair of me to attack you out of jealousy. When we get to Molly’s, I’ll try to obey your order, but it won’t be easy. How will I look at you and be around you without the truth being written all over my face for Molly to see, especially when she’s pawing you or fawning over you? You ordered me not to go to the wharves for any reasons; well, the same applies to you where her bed is concerned. I’ll allow her romantic dreams, but nothing more, partner, understand?” she asked, using one of his favorite expressions.
Blane chuckled and lightly pinched her cheek. “Possessive little thing, aren’t you? You needn’t be jealous, Flame; I belong to you. Lord, you’re right about one thing; it’s gonna be torture keeping my eyes and hands off you for weeks.”
Shannon tried to master her edginess. Her head and back were aching, which she assumed were effects from her previously cramped quarters and lack of exercise. She smiled. “You’re a clever and resourceful man. I’m sure you can think of something if your hungers grow too large and painful. Let’s get moving. I can already envision myself relaxing for hours in a big tub of warm water and lots of bubbles, then relishing a delicious hot meal and sleeping in a soft bed.”
He kissed her palm. “Woman, you are a tormenting tease. What more could I want than to join you for all three?”
“To end the war and to find Ellie’s errant lover,” she unthinkably answered, then wished she had not said those things.
“My priorities are the war, you, then…Ellie’s beguiler.”
“Since nothing I say or do could possibly win or lose the war, I’ll discard that priority. The same is true of Ellie’s trouble; I could make the situation worse if I interfered. That leaves one. My priority would have to be to stay alive until I can make myself your first priority.”
“Nothing could please me more, Shannon Greenleaf. Maybe that’s why I can’t bring myself to leave you anywhere for long; I’m afraid you’ll find somebody to replace me, to change your priority.”
Shannon caressed his jawline as she murmured, “In fear of swelling this handsome head, I speak reluctantly when I say you are irreplaceable, Major Blane Stevens. Unless you want or find someone to take my place, you’re stuck with me. Until I find Corry, you’re the only thing of value in my life. I’ve lost so much since this war began that I’m almost afraid to want you and need you. I’m so afraid I’ll look up one morning and you’ll be leaving without telling me why you’re going or where, just like that man did to Ellie.”
She hurriedly went on to avoid any misunderstanding. “Not that I don’t trust you, Blane, because I do. But all I have is your word that you want me too. Ellie loved and trusted…that man. Will you promise me one thing? If you want or need to leave me, don’t go without telling me. I wouldn’t try to hold you; I wouldn’t cry or plead or give you any problems. If you have to go, do it openly and honestly. Please don’t ever deceive me or betray me or desert me.”
Blane thought he understood the meaning behind her words. “I promise, Shannon—open and honest, if I’m ever foolish enough to let you go. Will you do the same with me?”
Without hesitation, she vowed, “I promise.”
Blane quickly went over the changes in his orders and new facts he had learned about their roles and assignments in Wilmington.
Having been alerted to their pre-dawn arrival by Jeremy, Sarah Jane was up and preparing to carry out her daily chores when Shannon and Blane rode up. Because they had encountered no person or obstacle along the way, they had covered the distance quickly and appeared without detection at the Resting Place just before six o’clock. Shannon was surprised to find that the hotel was large, beautiful, and well kept. The lovely, serene structure softly and quietly suggested money and elegance. Shannon was most impressed and pleased.
No sooner had the younger Sinclair sister told them that she rose early and handled the morning chores while Molly rose later and handled the evening tasks when Molly gracefully stepped into the receiving hall, all smiles and sparkling eyes for Blane. The ebony-haired beauty warmly greeted Blane before turning her curious attention to Shannon. Molly’s smile froze. Her green eyes narrowed like a feline’s stalking its tiny prey. It was obvious to the others present that Molly found Shannon’s youth and beauty disturbing and objects of envy. Clearly she did not care to have such matchless competition around Blane, especially traveling with him. The twenty-eight-year-old widow visually appraised Shannon as if considering her purchase on the auction block.
Comprehending the woman’s distress and suspicion, Shannon tried to dispel such hazardous feelings immediately. Her weary gaze swept over Blane with cool disinterest. “I’m so delighted to arrive finally. Major James has driven me as if I were a beast of burden heading for market. President Davis should recall him for lessons in courtesy and kindness. Perhaps it is this horrid war that causes fighting men to forget they should remain gentlemen at all times. I would never survive if the War Department paired me up with such an inconsiderate slave driver. I do hope this is the last time we shall be called upon to work together, sir.”
Blane grasped his part in her cunning ruse and retorted nonchalantly, “It isn’t my fault I was assigned to get you to a safe and comfortable resting place. As you can see, Cockade, you arrived in perfect condition, despite all of your grumbling and complaints. It astonishes me how you get anything done with that sorry attitude.”
“Not only are you a beast—a crude and hateful beast—but you are also a fool. Never use my code name where it might be overheard. Very few people are as trustworthy and courageous as these two ladies. I shall not warn you again of such recklessness, sir. Anyone would think you an amateur at this dangerous and crucial business. I shall file a full report on your despicable behavior when I return to Richmond.”
Molly hurriedly inserted, “But Miss Greenleaf, you judge Major James too quickly and harshly. Perhaps you are overly tired from your journey and work. I can assure you, Steven is a fine gentleman and an exceptionally brave man. We.are most honored to assist you both.”
Shannon sighed heavily as she critically eyed Blane. “Perhaps you are right, Mrs. Ryan. I am thoroughly exhausted and out of sorts. I have a head wound that still pains me occasionally. Perhaps I am being hard on him. Surely he cannot be as terrible as I imagined if you speak and think so highly of him. Nor can he be a bad judge of character, since he has selected you two as good friends and helpers. We have traveled swiftly under frightful conditions, so there has been little time to get acquainted. I apologize to you, your sister, and Major Stevens for my silly and offensive behavior. I am most grateful for your patriotism. Your hotel is lovely. I know I shall enjoy my visit.”
Grinning playfully, she teased, “Perhaps there will be enough time for a little entertainment. I hear many handsome soldiers are on duty in your fine city. How I long to hear the rustle of satin, the tinkling of wine glasses, the sound of lovely music, and the laughter and flattery of a handsome man. How exciting to think of dancing and dinners and smiles and fun. Wilmington seems so far from the noises of cannons, and gunshots, and exploding mines, and screams of pain and death. Perhaps I shall become spoiled here and never leave.”
After introductions were made and genial banter was exchanged, the younger sister took command of the situation. Knowing they must be exhausted, the plump and jolly Sarah Jane immediately showed them to their rooms, returning to Shannon’s with a hot meal and warm water for washing her hands and face. Shannon gazed around the spacious bedroom of the suite that Sarah Jane Sinclair and Molly Sinclair Ryan had insisted she use without charge during her stay in Wilmington. She astutely presumed that Molly was tending to Blane’s food and water, and she vowed she would not feel or show jealousy toward the buxom female who was half-owner of the establishment.
After devouring the tasty meal and freshening up, Shannon slipped into a flannel gown that Sarah Jane had given her. She smiled and sighed peacefully as she stretched out under the covers. Ignoring all sounds and thoughts, she slept tranquilly until midafternoon.
Upon awakening, she stretched over and over. How she wished Blane were lying beside her. How wonderful it would be to marry him and to awaken at his side each new day, she reflected silently. She could almost feel that last feverish kiss he had placed on her lips just before they had entered town. He had pulled her across his thighs to embrace and to kiss her a final time. He had reminded her to call him Steven James and had cautioned her to do nothing more than what they had previously discussed. He had released her horse with its identifiable markings and had disposed of the incriminating Confederate gear. They had arrived riding double.
Shannon got out of bed and walked to the windows. From the third-story suite, she had a marvelous view of the city and riverfront, and she saw that both were very busy. She noticed boats and ships of varying sizes. Perhaps she had a bit of the sailor in her as Corry did, she mused, for such sights always thrilled her, especially viewing the tall-masted sailing ships. A burst of anticipation and energy surged through her. She wondered if Sarah Jane or Molly knew any of their captains. It would be so exciting to tour one of those beautiful frigates. Surely she would be safe on the wharves if escorted by a powerful sea captain and friend of the Sinclairs.
She mentally reviewed the tale that Blane would relate about them. She prayed that Blane had been right in ordering her to use her real name. She also prayed that Jeremy Steele had been right when he had assured them that Moore’s troops were gone. She mentally prayed for her two brothers, her home, divine guidance for Lincoln and all soldiers, and for her beloved. She prayed for the courage to confide in Blane, and for his understanding.
There was a knock on her door before Sarah Jane let herself in to deliver Shannon’s meal and to see if she needed anything before she began her afternoon chores. The woman’s entrance warned Shannon that she would have to bolt her door from the inside from now on. She smiled warmly at the woman who was eyeing her with fascination and respect.
“Good afternoon, Sarah Jane. This is most kind of you, but you shouldn’t go to such trouble because of me. I can take my meals downstairs. You must be busy, and I don’t wish to impose.”
The hazel-eyed woman quickly retorted, “Impose? Heavens no, Miss Greenleaf. It’s an honor to serve you. I know you must be exhausted, and I hated to awaken you. But we have strict dining hours; once lunch is served, no food will be available until six. I wanted you to eat before everything was chilled or discarded. You see, what isn’t eaten or can’t be saved is given to the poor or to soldiers. I told the cleaning woman not to disturb you until you were ready for your room to be straightened and to have your bath prepared.”
“Could you join me for a cup of tea while I eat?” Shannon inquired, knowing the woman was bursting with questions. She knew it would be best to begin her stay in a genial and trusting atmosphere.
Sarah Jane beamed with pleasure and appreciation. She poured the tea and arranged the table while Shannon slipped into her garments. After joining Sarah Jane, Shannon sighed heavily. “Please excuse my clothing. I fear I have nothing else to wear. What wasn’t stolen along the way or discarded during moments of peril was left in Richmond. Do you think I could help with chores to earn money for a few items?”
“I couldn’t possibly allow someone such as you to do menial chores. You are here to relax, Miss Greenleaf. My sister and I have numerous gowns and undergarments. We will be more than happy to share some with you. We owe you much for your services to the Confederacy. I’m sure I can obtain needed items from other ladies without revealing your identity. Don’t you worry; I’ll handle everything. By tomorrow, your closet will be bulging, but your colorful name will still be a secret.”
“You are far too generous, Sarah Jane. Accepting charity comes hard at times, for so many Southerners and soldiers are sadly lacking in food and clothing, and even weapons. Please, call me Shannon.”
“Major James told us what a terrible time you had getting here. I’m so happy you arrived safely. Your missions must be difficult when you don’t know whom to trust.”
Shannon stopped eating to respond. Knowing this woman might have heard of General Moore’s search for her, she thought it would be wise to make a valid explanation of that episode. “They are, Sarah Jane,” she concurred, then briefly related the occurrences in his camp before swearing her to secrecy. “That incident was most distressing. He deserved to know who we were, but it was too dangerous to confide in him. With clever and desperate spies everywhere, our missions and identities must be guarded at all times. We had no choice but to allow him to think he’d captured a Yankee spy with a vulnerable hostage. Now either he believes Major James took me captive again, or he suspects I was his Yankee accomplice. Here, you and your sister are the only two people who know I’m Cockade. You can imagine what the Federals would do to get their hands on me. It’s so hard being on alert all the time, being suspicious of everyone, running and hiding. I need this rest and peace. I cannot begin to express my gratitude.”
“After what happened to Rose Greenhow, I can’t blame you for being afraid and wary. That handsome Lieutenant Pike went around giving your description and asking for news of you. Molly and I kept a sharp watch on him like Jeremy asked. You’re lucky he didn’t give your name or tell why he was seeking you, especially to General Holmes. Otherwise, you would be spending this rest time being questioned and trying to prove who you are. After a while, he seemed satisfied you hadn’t come this way. What if you two hadn’t escaped? What if General Moore had tried to execute you?” the woman asked worriedly.
“Those are the risks agents must take to help end this war. It isn’t that we didn’t trust Moore; it’s just that damaging information is too frequently dropped by unthinking officers when they’re drinking or bragging. Even if I had told Moore the truth, our release would have inspired hazardous curiosity. Or worse, he probably wouldn’t have believed us; then we would have faced hours or days of badgering questions. We could have been sent to a fort or prison until our identities were proven. I was too exhausted to endure that. We can’t let anyone discover we’re in this area. I would be vulnerable to danger and the major’s work would be thwarted. No one knows I’m Cockade, or that Cockade’s a woman. You and Molly mustn’t drop even a tiny clue about me. After the war, you can tell everyone how you helped me and Major James.”
Sarah Jane smiled at her new friend. “You shouldn’t feel guilty about deceiving General Moore. I’m sure he would understand.”
“He should, considering he almost let me die in the line of duty. War causes men to think and behave stupidly. You can imagine me trying to tell him who I am. Many soldiers take one look at me and laugh skeptically. The only way I can convince them is to use certain code words. Evidentally, General Moore hadn’t received the new list, because he didn’t respond to my signals and I didn’t know the old ones for his area. Besides, our capture and escape should make them more alert and careful. Men can be such cocky, stubborn creatures. Some of them detest taking suggestions or orders from a woman. General Moore seemed like one of those overly proud males. One thing for certain, our actions were good practice for a real capture and escape.”
“You and Major James make a good pair. He seemed so concerned about you when you arrived. He’s really kind and well bred. I’m sorry you found him so disagreeable. He’s very handsome and manly.”
Shannon realized this woman was perceptive and still harbored doubts about her. She decided that partial honesty would win Sarah Jane’s loyalty and affection. “That false behavior was a wicked thing for me to do. I hope you don’t think badly of me, but I wanted to avoid any problems or needless anguish. It was clear how Molly feels about Major James, so I tried to ease her worries. I’m sure she doesn’t realize I travel with many handsome and virile men. I didn’t want to give her cause for alarm about me and him. You see, the man I love and plan to marry as soon as this war ends is not Major Steven James. When she looked so concerned, I wanted to tell Molly outright that I’m not a barrier between her and the object of her desires. But I’ve learned from past experiences, verbal protests and denials only cast more suspicion. I know little about Major James. Are they very close? Did I do the right thing?”
Sarah Jane grinned, totally disarmed and deluded. Her sister was a spoiled brat who thought she could captivate any man she wanted. Maybe with her looks, wealth, and ripe figure, she could ensnare almost any man, but not Major James. He was just too nice to spurn her! Molly could be so vain and bossy, and she used her age and past marital status as excuses. At times, Molly refused to do her share of chores, assigning them to their hired servants. Sometimes Sarah Jane wanted to strangle or spank her older sister. She wasn’t fooled as to why Molly wanted the late shift of chores. It was the hour when numerous men came to dine and to chat with friends. She wondered how Molly was going to take to having this beauty around for competition, for Molly could be a spiteful thing. She liked Shannon, and would warn her.
“Molly would like for them to be close, but I doubt Major James feels that way. He’s much too kind and well mannered to hurt anyone, even that flirty and persistent sister of mine. I think he’s hoping she’ll find other prey. But Molly has her heart set on trapping him. Unless you really come to like him, it would be best if you continued that false behavior around my sister. When riled, she can get nasty,” she advised pointedly.
“You’re a very bright and unselfish person, Sarah Jane. Is there a man in your life?” Shannon inquired genially as she sipped the tea.
Sarah Jane blushed and grinned, then sighed in frustration. “I’m waiting for the day when Jeremy Steele forgets his wife and learns to trust again.” She went on to explain the tragic tale of Jeremy’s betrayal.
“Perhaps we can find some reasons for Jeremy to visit frequently while we’re staying here. He seems very nice and cheerful. Does he know you find him attractive, that you want him?”
“How does a woman let a man know such things without acting badly?” she questioned seriously.
“When he comes around, talk to him, smile at him. Prepare something special for him to eat, perhaps a treat to carry home. Ask about him; lonely people miss conversation and kindness. Don’t be afraid to look him in the eye. Words and feelings can be exchanged with a special look. If he’s been hurt, he needs to feel your affection and understanding. Besides feeling anger and bitterness and wariness over his wife’s betrayal and desertion, he must have lost some of his self-esteem and confidence. Maybe he’s afraid to trust or love another woman, afraid she’ll do the same. Let him feel your love and warmth. Let him know you’re hurting for him. Find ways to touch him accidentally, to remind him of forgotten feelings. Smell good and look pretty to snare his nose and eyes. Work on the physical side first, because you’ve got to catch his attention before you can catch his heart.”
“You know so much about men,” the woman declared in awe.
“I had three brothers who talked a great deal about women, feelings, and such. They wanted me to understand those emotions and situations. The average woman doesn’t realize how scary it can be for a man to approach her, to risk being an amusement or diversion, to challenge rejection. Men can be just as shy or intimidated. They told me that it helps encourage and relax a man if you boldly show interest and affection. You have to encourage and relax Jeremy.”
“I’ll try my best, Shannon. Sometimes I wish I were more outgoing, like Molly. But if I were, I would never snare Jeremy.” She laughed after speaking that naughty conclusion aloud.
“I’ll speak with Major James and see if we can’t get Jeremy to come here for some reason. I’ll help you win him. It’ll be fun.”
Sarah’s joy faded instantly. “But Major James left this morning. I heard him telling Molly he wouldn’t be returning for two or three weeks. By then, it’ll be freezing or you two will be leaving.”
“He’s gone? Without telling me?” she asked incredulously. That wasn’t their plan! What about his recent promise to warn her of separations? She promptly mastered her emotions and poise. “That shouldn’t surprise me, but I thought he was going to rest a few days. We aren’t partners, and I did treat him rather hatefully last night. He doesn’t owe me explanations, and he probably enjoys thinking he’s put one over on me. Men—they always have something to prove to themselves or to others. Damn such pride and ego. Since he’s left, that means I’m truly on a much-needed rest break. Wilmington seems so far from the battles and suffering and peril. I suppose I’ll feel guilty every day for wallowing in this lap of luxury.”
“You look as if you need rest, Shannon.”
Shannon nodded as she replied, “I do. My head and back ache, and my stomach is crampy. Probably all of this riding and eating on the run. I would love to soak in a hot tub if you don’t mind. And don’t worry about Jeremy. We’ll think of something. He’ll be courting you before Thanksgiving,” Shannon remarked confidently, then grinned.
“Only a month? I hope you can work that quickly. I’ve made no progress with him in two years. I’ll send Mattilu Walker to help you. She’s a free black woman who works for me. While you’re here, she’ll see to your food, bath, laundry, and cleaning. You’ll like her. Just ask her for whatever you want or need.”
After Sarah Jane Sinclair left the spacious room, Shannon went to lie down until Mattilu came to prepare her bath and to strengthen her fire. The days were growing colder and windier. In this hotel, Shannon felt safe and warm, but she fretted over the fact that her love was somewhere battling the enemy as well as this rapidly changing weather.
She massaged her temples. Her head hurt, but not unbearably. She felt tense and irritable. She was depressed. She stood and stripped off her pants, which seemed tighter today, and she was reminded of how and where she had gotten them. She wrapped a coverlet around her body and walked to the fireplace to stare into the almost serene blaze. She smiled as she recalled her chimney adventure with Blane. She couldn’t imagine where they would have hidden if that fireplace had been in use. She sat in the rocker, again recalling another adventure: the night she had met Blane and he had tied her to a similar chair to interrogate her. So many things reminded her of Blane Stevens.
Shannon leaned her head against the chair and closed her eyes. She began to rock and to hum. So many images filled her mind: home, her brothers, her adventures, her perils, her dreams, her missing lover. How she longed for this war to end so she could start a new life, hopefully at Greenleaf with Corry and Blane, and Hawke…
When Mattilu arrived, she suggested that they prepare a tub near the fireplace instead of in the cool bathing closet. Shannon instantly agreed. The buckets of water were passed up from the kitchen by way of a pulley and shaft enclosed in a special cabinet and available for use on each floor. Shannon didn’t mind using the large tin tub rather than the oblong one, for she had no patience for a lengthy soak today. She wanted to bathe, then return to bed.
As Mattilu assisted her, Shannon conversed with the woman to distract herself from her increasing misery. “I was told you’re a free woman. How long have you worked for the Sinclair sisters?”
The forty-year-old, brown-skinned woman replied softly, “I’s been wif Missy Sarah Jane since she wuz born. I used ta works fur her family. They’s said I cud be free when them two girls growed up. Missy Sarah Jane kept her papa’s word after he died. Missy Molly wanted Mattilu ta stays a slave. She gived Missy Sarah a bad time onnacouna of ’leasing me. I’s been workin’ fur her ever since. I’s gonna enjoy hepping you, Missy Shannon.”
Shannon turned her head and grinned at the attractive woman. “You can drop the ruse and false talk, Mattilu. I’m not a Molly or a tattler. I don’t believe in slavery. So you don’t have to pretend with me.”
Mattilu laughed. “How did you guess?” she inquired.
“Some of your word choices and pronunciations. I know this must be a difficult time for you, but things will change after the war. You don’t have to be afraid or devious around me. The way things are going, you won’t have to conceal your sharp wits much longer. It must be taxing to playact all the time to keep people from getting nervous.”
The woman stared at Shannon, who blushed and looked away. Mattilu warned, “I’m not the only one who should watch her words, Miss Shannon. Be real careful around Molly.”
“What do you mean?” the redhead inquired anxiously.
“Much as I hate fooling Miss Sarah Jane, I hate slavery more, and I want it ended for all my people. Miss Molly has been asking lots of questions about you. She’s upset because you’re so beautiful and you’ve been traveling with the man who’s got her planning and plotting his bewitchment, but she won’t get him. Miss Sarah Jane is different. She’s sweet and kind, but she’s mighty patriotic.” Mattilu’s voice changed as she revealed, “Major Stevens has been kind and generous to me. I’ve been helping him in little ways, if you understand my meaning. You can find rest and safety here. I promised the major to watch after you. Whatever you need, just call Mattilu—nobody else.”
Shannon caught the name she had used and the clues in her statements. “You’re smarter and braver than I realized, Mattilu. Like I said, playacting all the time is very hard and dangerous.”
“I keep my eyes and ears open all the time. I try to help the major, but I don’t take risks. We’ll have to be careful, ’cause we don’t want anyone hearing us talk. This town’s full of Rebel soldiers and Southern loyalists, so you have to be real careful when you go out.”
“I’m glad you’re here, Mattilu. Now I won’t feel so alone with Blane gone. Did he say anything to you before he left?”
“He asked me to look after you until he gets back. He told me how you two had to fool Molly. If I had to make a guess, it’s love what put that gleam in his eyes and that cotton in his voice,” she teased.
Shannon smiled, then laughed. “I hope so, Mattilu. I surely hope so.” She continued with her bath, silent for a time.
“Miss Shannon, I forgot to tell you; nobody knows about me save the major and Mister Jeremy. I want it kept that way.”
“I understand, Mattuli. I should explain a few matters to you.” Shannon related how she had met Blane, some of their joint adventures, her search for her brother, and the Cockade ruse. She also explained the story they had told the Sinclair sisters. “Do you think Jeremy has any special feelings for Sarah Jane? I wouldn’t want to encourage her if you think it’s wrong or unwise. They are fighting for opposite sides.”
“I’ve seen Mister Jeremy watching Miss Sarah Jane when she wasn’t looking, and I’ve seen her do the same. I think something’s budding betwixt them. ’Course Mister Jeremy might think it best to wait until the war’s over to ask her hand in marriage.”
“Perhaps that would be for the best. The war does have a way of coming between lovers even when they’re working for the same side. I hope Blane isn’t away too long. It’s getting cold outside.”
“One of the ladies sent a wool cape for you. Miss Sarah Jane has collected lots of clothes as well—pretty ones. Would you like to try them on after your bath?”
“Not yet, Mattilu. I haven’t been feeling well today.”
Shannon stood up and stepped out of the tub onto the mat placed there by the serving woman. Mattilu wrapped a drying sheet around her. “I think I’ll lie down for a while. I’ll look at the clothes later.” As Shannon patted the water from her body, the edge of the bath sheet turned red, which instantly explained her symptoms.
Mattilu noticed her problem and smiled. “I’ll get you some hot tea and monthly cloths, Miss Shannon. You just take it easy.”
While Shannon awaited the other woman’s return, she realized why she had been feeling so terrible yesterday and today. Suddenly she became aware of another fact—one which might have frightened her if she had thought of it sooner: this was her first monthly flow since August, making her long over a month late. She was delighted it had occurred here in the hotel and with Blane gone. She decided to follow the suggestions of Blane, Mattilu, and Sarah Jane to rest and relax for the next five days. She would sleep, rest, read, eat, and stay warm. Nature’s timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Considering how many times she had made love to Blane, she was fortunate not to be pregnant. She realized she would have to give that part of their relationship deep thought, or she could find herself wearing ill-fitting shoes, similar to those Ellie Stevens was wearing. She loved Blane, and she suspected that he loved her. But what if something happened to him and she was left carrying his child? She smiled. If anything happened to Blane, that’s exactly what she would want!