Read Online Love’s Betrayal by DiAnn Mills - Free Book Online Page A

given Papa her word to treat him as a friend and a guest in order for his Tory heart to soften, but nothing else. And what did Papa mean by referring to Henry:
“I see the way the man looks at you and is thoroughly confused”?
No mind, she didn’t intend to explore it another minute. The thought repulsed her.
    That night, Papa and Delight slept under the wagon. They were anxious to return home and had traversed long into the evening until exhaustion prevailed against them. Even then, Delight’s mind reeled with the happenings of this cherished time with Papa. She’d witnessed a side of him that brought tears to her eyes—a true patriot. One day, she would draw her children to her side and tell them about their grandfather. Sooner than those days, she’d reveal her own small part in the war, although she still desired to do more than make musket shells.
    James Daniels existed as another matter: quite handsome, that man. His smile could charm the bark off a tree. In short, she wouldn’t mind his visit at all.
    Two days later they finally made it back to Chesterfield. The small village had become home, but Delight sorely missed the excitement of Boston. Mercy and Hope met them with enthusiastic affection as though they had been gone for months. Mama and the rest of Delight’s sisters filed out one by one to offer their hearty welcome and share in Papa’s and Delight’s embraces.
    â€œDid you have a pleasant journey?” Mama eyed him suspiciously. She knew Papa’s designs.
    He lifted baby Elijah from her arms and held him close. “Tremendous success, my sweet Elizabeth. I will share it all with you after dinner tonight.” He sniffed the air. “Do I smell venison stew? All the while we were gone, I pondered your fine cooking. Nothing compares to it.”
    Mama shook her finger at him. Her large, brown eyes twinkled, giving away her feigned irritation. “Elijah Abraham Butler, you most assuredly have done something of which I shall disapprove. Is that where your compliments lie?”
    Papa graced her cheek with a kiss. “And how is Henry faring?”
    She released a sigh, then laughed before throwing her arms around his neck. “He is doing quite well.” She pointed to the maple tree where Henry waved. “He has set up a loom and is weaving all sorts of marvelous things.”
    So now he captivates the heart of my mother?
Delight could scarce believe her ears.
    Charity nearly bubbled with excitement. “Come see, Papa. He has begun weaving diapers for Elijah.”
    â€œAnd he is able to weave black-gauze aprons, damask cloths, and a host of other wonderful things,” Patience said.
    â€œWonderful!” Papa strode toward the maple tree, carrying Elijah, while Mercy and Hope nestled close to their father’s sides. “Greetings, Henry.”
    â€œAye, Elijah. We missed ye.” Henry grinned. “And ye, too, Delight.”
    I fail to believe you missed me.
She released a heavy sigh. His comment irritated her, since they rarely enjoyed each other’s company.
    â€œI have taken to repay ye for your kindness,” Henry continued. “Mistress Butler states some of my goods are not available here.”
    â€œTrue,” Papa said. “We have need of your fine services.” He examined Henry’s work and complimented his craftsmanship. “I’d like to keep you employed. The entire town could use your services.”
    â€œThe British army would not agree with you, sir.” Henry’s blue eyes fairly danced, and a smile twisted at the corners of his mouth. Never had he talked so freely and acted so lively.
    â€œWe might be able to arrange something.”
    Papa, this daring invites trouble. You cannot trust the enemy.
    Henry chuckled. “I do long for this war to be abated, for I miss my trade.” He peered around Papa to where Delight stood. “See, your generous care has given me