Site uses cookies to provide basic functionality.

OK
"My good man," he said to Charlie in a serious tone of voice, "this young woman is a fugitive." Charlie looked horrified. "You mean she done broke the law?" Rupert favored Lily with a brief, triumphant glance, and she tensed. Whatever Rupert said, Charlie would believe him. That was how it was with men. "Not exactly." Lily let out her breath at Rupert's answer. "What do you mean, 'not exactly'?" Charlie demanded. Rupert squared his shoulders like a man bearing up under crushing tragedy. "The truth is, this woman is my wife. She abandoned me and our two sick children just a month ago." "That's a lie!" Lily raged, knowing exactly what Charlie's reaction would be. "Rupert is my brother!" "Shame on you," Charlie scolded, shaking his finger at Lily again. "Sittin' in church like a decent woman, ridin' out into the country with the major--for shame!" Rupert gave Lily a discerning look. "What major?" he asked. Lily picked up the remaining pie and flung it into his face. Then she turned on her heel and left because she didn't need Charlie to tell her that she was fired. She"