Previously

Michael sat down next to Bette and grabbed one of her hands.

“There are some evil people in this world.  Most of them do it because they were taught to do so and know no other way to act.  But I promise you, I would never do anything that might harm you.  Do you believe that?”

In Bette’s heart, she knew he wasn’t lying, but her head was telling her something different.  Her upbringing was warning her.  As she slowly tried to withdraw her hand, Michael’s grip tightened and he raised her lowered face with his other hand.

“Bette, please tell me you trust me,” he said as his face lowered to meet hers.

“Bette, I’m ready for my horse ride now,” said Tina as she walked into the kitchen.

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Tina didn’t know what she had walked in on.  When she approached them, they both jumped to their feet.  They both had a look of guilt.  What had happened?  Was her own brother making a pass at a slave?

“Yes, Miss Christina?”

Bette had never in her life felt this uncomfortable.  Here she stood in front of two of her owners, both for which she felt something.  What it was, she didn’t know.  They both made her feel safe.  Made her feel desirable.  But yet it was wrong; wrong on many levels.

Was my brother about to kiss my girl?  How could he? Tina asked herself.

“Michael, can I talk to you alone, please?”

Michael didn’t know how much Tina saw or heard.  Michael had always questioned the connection that his sister and this slave had.  Yes, they had grown up together from their youth, but there was more to their relationship.

“Sure.”

“Bette, I have some clothes on the bed that need to be aired out.  If you would so kindly take them to hang outside.”

“Yes, Miss.”

Bette quickly left the room.  She could feel the strange feelings floating around the room.

“Well, Tee, what did you want to speak to me about,” Michael asked as he sat down.

Tina walked over to her brother and sat right next to him.

“I was thinking–maybe we should invite Helena and Eric over for dinner tonight.  Have Darlene and Kit make their special dish?  I think it’s important to get to know your future wife and Eric.  Don’t you agree?”

Michael was very puzzled by Tina’s request.  She had never liked Eric and despised Helena ever since she had beaten Tina so many times for the title of Southern Belle.  Now all of sudden, she wanted them over?

“Well, Tee, that’s a good idea but I just got home and I wanted to spend more time with you.”

Yeah, right–me and Bette, Tina said to herself.

“Well, I think it’s more important to get to know them since they’re going to be family soon.  You and Helena are going to get married first.  That’s what mother said.”

Michael thought Helena was smart and beautiful, but she wasn’t what he wanted.  He wanted Bette.  He wanted to make her his bride but knew that was out of the question.  Marrying Helena would send him over to The Peabody’s plantation, away from Bette.  And when Eric married Tina, he would have full control here.  After running into him the other night, he didn’t trust him around his slaves.  Maybe he could talk with his dad about him and Helena staying here. 

“Good idea, sis.  Let’s invite them and get to know them better.”

Tina was shocked at how easily Michael had gone along with her.  She thought that maybe she would have to do more persuading. 

“Good–I will let Ma and Pa know, then send one of the boys over with the invitation.”

Tina got up and headed straight outside and called out to Bette, who was deep in thought about what was happening.  When Bette didn’t respond, she ran after her and, when she got close enough, grabbed her by the shoulder and turned her around quickly, furious at being snubbed. 

“Don’t ignore me, gal!”

Bette, puzzled at this actions, said, “Miss Christina, what are you talking about?”

“Bette, were you kissing my brother?”

TBC