by Hines, Jerri
“Rosa, don’t be overly dramatic. We were quite safe.” Jo dismissed her maid’s fear and relinquished hold of her precious daughter.
As she watched Rosa disappear into the house, Jo realized Rosa’s apprehension came from eavesdropping on the prevalent conversation as of late—debating whether to return or stay in Charleston. Had it not been the same before they went into Charleston? Was there anywhere truly safe?
In truth, there was nowhere else Jo wanted to be and was content with the decision to return. But the last few weeks, the dinner table had been the center of debate about the situation.
Andrew held the concern that the family would be overwhelmed with demands upon their goodwill if they stayed in Charleston.
“It is the neighborly thing to do…to share what we have, but there are too many hands out in Charleston. We can’t refuse. It will only cause ill will,” Andrew said. “Moreover, I believe we need to be at the plantation. Already we have lost the kitchen building at White Oaks because we have no one living there.”
“We would be foolish not to consider the dangers faced at being at Magnolia Bluff. There have been cases of homes being burnt to the ground,” Derek argued. “I’ve heard of Yankee incursions.”
“If we stay in Charleston, how are we going to stay self-sufficient?” Andrew countered. “I strongly feel the slaves who have remained want to continue to live at Magnolia Bluff. We have a responsibility to them as well. Furthermore, who’s to say that the Yankees won’t try to invade Charleston?”
Finally, the decision had been made and they were home! Jo couldn’t have been happier.
She watched her son skipping alongside his Uncle Andrew, laughing and giggling. Since the day that Yankee departed, she found a newfound confidence in her brother-in-law. He had protected her and Percival.
Furthermore, Andrew had allowed Percival to become his shadow when he was around. For that, Jo was grateful. Percival needed a man’s influence.
This had been the right decision. Jo felt it in her heart. Wade’s spirit lived on within the boundaries of Magnolia Bluff. This was where he would have wanted his family. It was where they belonged.
Here the war did not exist.
Jo reflected on the past and drew strength from what Wade had given her—his love. She would hold on to it and live one day at a time, having faith Wade watched over them.
* * * *
Less than a month after their return, Jo made a request for the family to dress formally for dinner. It had been quite a long time since the family entertained. The days and nights had been consumed by the need to maintain the plantation and keep the family healthy and safe.
Surprisingly, her request had been met with unbridled enthusiasm…at least from the women. Anna and Jenna spent the better half of the afternoon readying for the night, much like they would have before the war. Mother Montgomery even promised to play a few pieces on the piano.
For the night, she took off her mourning and donned a flowing lavender taffeta gown with a dropped V-waist, lined with ruffles up the full skirt. Rosa twisted her hair back in what once had been fashionable. She studied herself in the mirror, remembering the last time she had worn it…at the last dinner party she had attended with Wade.
She wiped back welling tears; this was not a time for sadness. She wanted the family to enjoy the evening. Outside, a reddish glow reflected off the scattered clouds as the ball of orange lowered in the sky.
“Momma, you look pretty.”
Jo turned to find her young man in the doorway. “I thought I had already put you to bed, my love.”
“But I wanna go down with ya.”
“Not tonight.” Jo took his hand and led him back to his room. Tucking him into bed once more, she promised, “I will tell you all about it in the morning.”
When she walked back into her room, she took the letter she received yesterday out of her top drawer. Charlotte had married and wanted Jo to share the news with the family. Charlotte had found comfort with a wounded soldier, George Williams. He owned a general store in Savannah and was the nephew of Aunt Mae on her husband’s side. Moreover, to Jo’s delight, Charlotte was expecting a baby.
Dearest Jo, I wanted you to share in my happiness, but with the war raging around us, I succumbed to George’s desire to marry quickly and quietly. After my first marriage, I was so hesitant to marry again, but George is so different, loving and caring. He is as excited as I am about the baby. I know I should not be talking openly about such a private matter, but it is you, my oldest, most beloved friend.
Jo was certain that Charlotte was apprehensive about how society would take her marriage with the scandal attached to her first union. Perhaps in the past, Charlotte’s worries would have been founded, but not today, not when death could lie beyond the bend. No, life needed to be celebrated each day.
Tonight was an opportunity to live just for the moment. There was no yesterday…no tomorrow, only this moment.
As she descended the staircase and into the dining room, Jo was delighted that everyone had followed suit. Mother Montgomery still wore black, but had changed to a white lace collar pinned with a cameo that her three boys had given her for Christmas many a year ago.
Anna sat next to her mother in a shimmering cream gown trimmed in a deep forest green. Jo was certain it must have been Mother Montgomery’s at one time. Pearls adorned her neck as pearl droplets hung from her ears. The poor dear hadn’t had the opportunity to enjoy dances and parties as had Jenna, not with her poor health and the war. Tonight, though, she shined.
Beaming in her much-worn rose gown, Jenna sat by Derek, who also dressed for the occasion in a borrowed suit that once had been Wade’s. Rosa had altered it, shortening the pants and sleeve of the waistcoat. He looked quite dashing.
Jenna had confided that she longed to dance with her husband. He had been self-conscious of his missing arm, but in the confines of the family’s eyes, Jenna hoped she would finally get her dance.
The table was set with the china that had been handed down from one generation to the other for a hundred years. Mother Montgomery had taken it out of hiding for the occasion. Crystal goblets were filled with wine. A hog had been slaughtered and fresh ham, potatoes, and dinner rolls filled the table. Not the most elaborate of meals, but never had one been more appreciated.
“You look lovely.” Andrew rose and pulled back a chair for her. “Thank you for suggesting this night. It is a much-needed relief. Tell me, though, how long are you going to tease us? What news have you promised to share?”
“I see no reason to delay.” Jo glanced over the faces of her family. Unfolding the letter, she began, “I want to say that the last few years have been trying…We all have lost loved ones…those will never be forgotten.
“Saying that, I know that my dearest husband would not want us to mourn forever. I feel Wade is with us now and always. So let us smile tonight.” She sniffled, trying desperately not to cry. The emotions weighed heavier on her than she imagined. “Family meant everything to Wade…he loved you all. Family shares in the sorrow, but over the last year, we have had the good also.
“Jenna married and we added a new family member.” Jo smiled over at Derek, who raised his glass to her. “We have had children to add to the nursery. Each a blessing…and yesterday I received news from Charlotte she wanted me to share. She has married George—”
“Momma.”
Chuckles emerged, for behind Jo, Percival stood dressed in his Sunday clothes. Half buttoned, his shirt hung loosely over his pants. He wore only one shoe, but his hair was gelled backed and combed the best he could to the side.
“Percival, I told you…”
Andrew stepped to Percival’s rescue. “I think for tonight we could add a chair for the young man…”
Suddenly, the sound of horse hooves, thudding as swiftly as a frightened rabbit, resonated throughout the room. Everyone’s eyes met. Immediately, chairs were pushed back and everyone rushed toward the parlor’s front windows
.
No news was ever good that was carried that swiftly. Neither was this.
Two riders rode hard onto the lawn. Galloping madly, one drew in the reins just in time to swerve from barreling into the front steps. Laughing, he slid off his mount and stumbled toward the entrance.
“Josephine Buchanan Wright! I’ve come to settle the score.”
God help me! It’s Buck! Frightened, Jo stood frozen with Percival clinging to her skirt.
Upon getting no response, Buck leaned down and picked up the biggest rock he could find. He threw it through the window. Glass shattered and screams emerged.
Instinctively, Jo covered Percival with her body. Ignoring Buck’s taunts, she inspected her son closely. She could find no marks on him. Picking him up swiftly, she handed him to Mother Montgomery. The men had already stepped outside.
“Take him upstairs,” she ordered hurriedly. Not waiting for an answer, Jo rushed out the door and ignored the cries of the women to stop.
She couldn’t.
Buck had come for her…she had to get rid of the menace.
“What brings you here?” Jo demanded. Ignoring Andrew’s attempt to push her back into the house, she moved forward. “You aren’t welcome here. Leave and take your friend with you.”
“Paying a call long overdue, dear cousin. I came to see you,” Buck slurred and staggered up the steps. Tripping, he grasped hold of his buddy for support.
Jo recognized Buck’s companion. One of the boys who hung out with Harry Lee—old man Harrison’s boy, Gus. No-good varmint from all accounts, which explained his presence with Buck.
Buck reeked of liquor. His cheeks were reddened. He pointed a filthy finger at Jo. “We have business to discuss. Ain’t going until you hear me out.”
“I owe you nothing and I can assure you I don’t want to hear a thing you have to say.”
His head tilted back, his eyebrows rose. He pressed his lips together firmly and shook his head. “Now…now why did I think you would say that?” Holding up his finger for a moment, he reached behind his back and pulled out a pistol. He aimed it straight at Jo. “Now, like I said. Let’s talk.”
“Put that gun away, for God’s sakes, man,” Andrew demanded. “There are women and children here.”
“Shut up.” Buck turned and pointed at him. “Or I will make you shut up.”
Derek raised the rifle he had grabbed before he rushed out of the door.
“Put that down, mister,” Gus countered, holding his gun straight at the group. “Don’t make me use this.”
“What is wrong with you, Buck? Have you done gone and lost all your good sense?” Jo rushed forward.
“Ain’t me, it’s you. Want to know why I’m here…because I got no home. No home because of you! Grandpa Henry passed away last week and you know what I got. Nothing! Nothing…. ’cause it all went to you and all these Montgomerys.”
“I didn’t even know Grandpa Henry died.”
“Don’t care neither, by the looks of things. What do you have going on here? A party? And didn’t even invite me!” Buck waved the pistol around. “Wonder what your family would say if they knew the truth about ya. Didn’t think I would figure it out. Thought you were too smart for me…for all of us.”
“Too smart for you? What on earth do you mean?”
“That you are a Yankee sympathizer. Yeah, it all fell into place. You sitting here pretty as you please. I know this is the place that Yankee spy came. Can’t fool me. You, Josephine Buchanan Wright Montgomery, are no better than Yankee scum. You have betrayed everyone and I’m gonna make sure everyone knows!”
“You lie! You drunken fool! I would never betray the South…my home…my family.”
“I’m done listening to you. It’s time for all you to listen to me. Right now it’s just me and Gus, but I’m going into Charleston and fetch McCoy. He’ll see to things…right after I take what’s mine. I need a home and this one will suit me just fine.”
“Don’t, Buck,” Jo pleaded. “Don’t do this. Go away. Sober up.”
“Nah.” Buck shook his head. “Want to show Harry Lee I am man enough. I’ll show him when he gets home that I handled things just fine. You should be happy, Jo, ’cause I’m not gonna make you suffer like Harry Lee would. It will be short and quick…”
From the corner of her eye, Jo saw Amos come out of nowhere. He lunged at Gus, sending him sprawling on the ground in one direction, his pistol in the other. A gun blasted and Amos fell.
Clambering down the steps, Jo fell down beside the big man. “You shot him!”
“Ain’t nothin’ but a God damn nigger. Now get up, Jo! Ya gonna rue the day you took us on. Ain’t got Wade to protect ya no more.”
“Okay…okay, Buck. There’s no need to get upset. You want a room for the night…food. Come on in. We’ll take care of you,” Andrew said in a soft, calming voice. He edged closer to Buck. “We were about to have dinner.”
“I told ya to shut up,” Buck snorted, raising the barrel up.
Then, suddenly, Buck paused. To Jo’s horror, she saw the reason.
Percival ran out the door. Frantically looking around, he saw her. With outstretched arms, he bolted for her.
Too late, she cried, “Don’t. Stay there!”
Buck grabbed hold of Percival by his shirt collar and lifted him off the ground. “Looky what I have here. Who’s your daddy, boy?”
“Major Wade…Montgomery,” Percival stuttered, confusion and fright riddled in his voice. He called out, “Momma!”
“Don’t look at ya momma, boy! She ain’t gonna help you now…not now…not ever!”
Buck’s eyes grew dark as his hand encircled Percival’s neck. Andrew lunged and slammed Buck back. Immediately, Derek snatched up Percival and headed toward the door. Tumbling down the steps, Buck and Andrew landed on the driveway.
Staggering up, Buck gripped tight his pistol. Enraged, he slurred, “Yeah, come on. Let’s see what you can do, n—”
A shot rang out. Buck stepped once, then twice and fell face first on the ground. The entire back of his shirt oozed blood left by the shot that killed him.
Smoke curled slowly in the air. Jo lowered the gun. She couldn’t breathe, but felt everyone’s eyes upon her. Behind her, she heard a horse race down the lane. For a timeless moment, she stood there, unable to move.
Andrew crawled over to the motionless body and confirmed, “He’s dead.”
Befuddled, her mind painstakingly comprehended her actions. She had done the only thing she could to protect her son. She had killed a man…snatched up the fallen gun off the ground and fired at Buck…shot him in the back.
“Jo, let go. Percival is safe.” Andrew untangled her fingers from the handle. “Rosa, come over and take Miss Josephine up to her room.”
Somewhere in the distance, she heard Percival scream for her. The girls’ voices…shrill, frightened voices…resonated around her.
Walking into the foyer, she saw her son crying against his grandmother. Hurried steps ran to her. Her eyes once more shone with a flash of clarity. She bent down and took her son in her arms.
She squeezed Percival tightly. When she glanced back through the open door, revulsion filled her as rage and fright melted away. Dazed, she felt Rosa’s hand on her shoulder and followed Rosa up the stairs.
* * * *
It was a ghastly night. Percival cried and clung to her like a small frightened animal. He clutched her tightly and buried his head into her bosom. She spent the night rocking him and soothing his fears as her own grew.
Her small, brave little man. She tried to lay him down, but the moment his head touched the pillow, his eyes opened and his arms reached out for her. So, she held him throughout the night.
At every movement, every sound, her body was on alert. There was no rest for any. Mother Montgomery cared for Madeline and came in several times to check in on Josephine.
Rosa sat with her, unmoving on the chair in the back corner. She said nothing, but her presence calme
d Jo.
At one point, Andrew came into the room. “Are either you or Percival harmed?”
She shook her head. “Amos?”
“He’s resting. The bullet went through his shoulder. I believe he will recover. Derek and I are going out. We will be back in the morning.”
Jo understood. They were disposing of Buck’s body. Oh, whatever am I going to do! This was an awful mess! The lies Buck told last night disturbed her mightily, but the greater concern lay with Buck’s drunken friend.
Gus had scrambled back to his horse and galloped away the moment Buck fell dead on the ground. He could be anywhere by now. What if he told the authorities she had shot Buck in the back? Would she be arrested for murder?
Six o’clock. The grandfather clock chimed and announced morning had arrived. Finally, she had been able to lay her sleeping son in her bed and change into her mourning black clothes. Straightening out her skirt, she watched Rosa ease back within the room.
“Miss Jo,” Rosa whispered. “Dr. Andrew wants to see you in the garden. Don’t ca worry. I won’t leave Master Percival.”
With the greatest reluctance, Jo stepped toward the door. Glancing back, she saw Rosa drag the hardback chair to the bedside. She took a deep breath in and looked around the room.
As it rose over the horizon, the morning sun gave light to the darkness. Through the window, Magnolia Bluff was awakening. The dew on the grass reflected off the sunbeams, illuminating peace and calm.
How beautiful and untouched it all seemed. Her hand held to the handle for a moment more before she exited the room she had shared with Wade…had loved…had given birth. So many memories.
She walked out.
Andrew waited at the foot of the stairs. Covered in mud and dirt, he looked exhausted. He handed her a cloak. “Come,” he said. “Let’s walk.”
She made no protest and followed him out into the garden.
The path Andrew took led down to the dock and through a line of large live Virginia oaks. Jo noticed his limp seemed more prominent. What seemed forever, they walked. Finally, he paused.