Chapter 6
Scarlett stirred in her sleep as she heard the soft breeze of the wind. Then unexpectedly she heard a rustle of leaves. She sat up immediately and found herself sitting on top of a pile of leaves with Rhett's white coat draped over her. She looked around in a daze. The last thing she remembered was Rhett had taken them out of Atlanta and they were almost killed by the massive fire.
She stood up and wanted to sit back down. Her legs felt so weak and she had never felt so exhausted. She, Scarlett O'Hara, who hardly didn't have to lift a finger and slept only on the finest softest of beds, now slept on the ground and raced around town like a crazy woman.
"Oh, what will Rhett think?" She thought frantically. He could be the most charming man and the most jeering one. She would just die if he laughed at her.
Scarlett finally saw Rhett. He was sitting over by a small stream staring at something, deep in thought. Scarlett decided not to bother him but that moment she couldn't stand her interest. She stood up quietly as she made her way towards Rhett. She tried to look at the object he was holding but before she could catch a glimpse he quickly shoved it in his pants pocket, noticing her presence.
"What was that?" Scarlett asked sweetly, smiling prettily as she always did when she wanted something.
"Nothing," Rhett replied mischievously.
"Oh, Rhett it was something. Oh, can I please see it?"
Rhett seemed to give this matter a lot of thought before he finally smiled and reached into his pocket. He handed Scarlett a small velvet box and she grabbed it eagerly, opening it.
There lay a huge diamond ring with an emerald in the middle with thousands of small diamonds surrounding it. Scarlett gasped in shock as she grabbed the ring with trembling fingers. This wasn't an ordinary ring it was a huge, darling beautiful ring. The most beautiful one she had ever seen. Suddenly an odd jealous pang swept through her chest. Why would Rhett have an engagement ring? He had told her many times he wasn't a marrying man.
"Are you betrothed, Rhett?" Scarlett asked coyly.
To her dismay Rhett only roared with laughter. "How many times must I tell you I'm not a marrying man? Marriage doesn't hold any charm for me."
"Well then why do you have this ring?" Scarlett indignantly replied.
"Well a dear friend left it with me before the war. I didn't know what to do with it and well… being the refined man that I am decided to keep it. It's not too bad looking," He replied airily.
She chocked. "It's not too bad looking? You must be crazy Rhett! Why, any woman would want this ring. It is the most darling handsome thing. Rhett…" Scarlett concluded reluctantly, "would you mind- if… well if I tried it on?"
Rhett smiled at Scarlett's girl like behavior. "Well go ahead if it will please you. But if it gets stuck, don't blame me."
Scarlett frowned at Rhett as she tried the ring on. And it fitted perfectly.
"Oh, Rhett!" She cried showing Rhett her hand. "It fits! Oh… if only. Why, I'll never have a ring like this. Why do all Yankee woman have the best shoes and darling clothing and well… they have everything," She concluded with a pout.
Rhett laughed. "Don't let it get to your head, Scarlett. In a few years you'll have the best of everything. The war will be over soon and I'm sure you'll marry a rich man and then you can tell the whole lot of them to go to hell." Scarlett only smiled as she stared at the ring.
"You know Scarlett," Rhett said with a mischief glint in his eyes. "If I didn't know any better I would say that ring is made for you."
"I'm just conceited enough to believe that," She said as she stared at the ring again and then slid it grudgingly off her finger, handing it to Rhett. "Well I guess I shall never wear a ring again that striking."
"No?" Rhett asked as he toyed with the ring.
"No. You need to marry to have an engagement ring and I hall never marry again," Scarlett declared. Rhett only laughed at Scarlett's impudence.
"Well, why are you laughing? You never married and you say marriage doesn't hold any charm for you then why should it for me? Anyways I don't like being married, it's no fun."
"Well my dear I'm a bachelor not because I want to lead a free life but because all marriages end up being a disaster sooner or later. But your kind needs to wed, Scarlett. You have been married to a boy who didn't wear the pants in the family and didn't have a way with woman. You need a man that can keep you on your toes. Have you ever heard 'The Taming Of The Shrew?' Well, Scarlett, as far as you and I are concerned you're a shrew that needs to be tamed."
"Oh and I suppose you're the proper person," She retorted.
"I might be," Rhett answered as he stood up, helping Scarlett to her feet. "Are you ready to leave Scarlett or do you want to rest awhile?"
"Gods nightgown! No Rhett lets hurry we'll be home soon."
"All right," Rhett agreed as he walked towards the back of the wagon to check on Melanie.
"How is she Rhett?" Scarlett asked feeling upset, that any woman, even Melanie could become so ill during childbirth.
"She's not well, Scarlett. But the sooner we get her to Tara, the sooner she can rest and her baby."
"Rhett- you don't think she'll…" Scarlett whispered being mindful of the others.
"No, Mrs. Wilkes is stronger than you think, Scarlett. But, let's leave now before they wake up. How far away are we from Tara?"
"About fifteen miles."
"Well then we better hurry if we want to make it before nightfall."
The ride was rough and fierce. The wagon at times would almost collapse from all the force. Scarlett was annoyed and hot when she complained:
"Rhett couldn't you have at least gotten a better wagon?"
Rhett only chuckled causing Scarlett to glare at him. "No, Scarlett not even if I wanted to. All the wagons were gone but of course you knew that since you came to me for help…"
Scarlett countered irritably, "Well, I know this wagon will break any minute and if it does…"
"Don't fret, Scarlett. We'll be at Tara soon and then you can walk down the road naked for all I care."
Scarlett blushed at Rhett's comment but didn't speak anymore. She knew it was futile speaking to Rhett. He always had a way of being one step ahead of her and it annoyed her to distraction. So she kept silent.
By nightfall Scarlett was exhausted and if she had any strength she would have seen Rhett was also. But Scarlett didn't look at Rhett she only kept her eyes on the long dark road ahead. After hours of riding in the scorching heat, they were finally turning onto the dark road, leading to Twelve Oaks.
Scarlett couldn't see a thing at first but as the clouds drifted away from the moon she could see the house. But now it wasn't a house it was only a shell of what it once was. The once bright smooth walls were blackened ashes. Scarlett gasped as the wagon drew closer and closer. After the wagon stopped, she jumped out followed by Rhett.
She observed the house looking for something, anything that wasn't destroyed but everything was gone. Scarlett made her way to the stairs that only half remained. She had walked the same set of steps and had flirted with beaux and had watched Ashley ride away that fateful day, when they were torn apart forever.
Numbly tears fell to Scarlett's pale cheeks as she lowered her face into her hands. She felt strong arms go around her and knew it was Rhett.
Quietly Scarlett wrapped her arms around Rhett's waist as she cried on his shoulder. After a moment she pulled back.
"Oh, Rhett I never knew it was… was this bad. Pa told me but I thought he was overreacting. He likes to tell- tell me things that aren't true to hold my- my interest. What if Tara is like this? I would just die."
"Shh … darling. Tara isn't like this. If I know anything I do know your father's Irish temper and I know he wouldn't let the Yankees step foot on Tara. Let alone burn it. Don't cry my love," Rhett murmured sweetly as he handed Scarlett his handkerchief.
Scarlett only nodded her head as she wiped her eyes with Rhett's handkerchief. Just then Scarlett heard something in the bushes and jumped in fright.
Rhett grabbed his pistol as he made his way outside. A few minutes later Scarlett heard Rhett's laughter and ventured out cautiously to meet him. Scarlett saw Rhett grinning holding a small cow by its horns.
"Oh!" Scarlett cried. "I was all worried for nothing just over an old cow."
"It's not that old," Rhett, corrected Scarlett. "Any ways it will be food for you and your family. We don't know what we'll find once we get there."
Scarlett only replied indignantly, "I assure you Rhett we won't have to drink the cow's milk. There is plenty of food at Tara."
"Just the same I'd rather take it. There's no use putting this animal to waist. Tell that mindless Prissy to come tie up this brute."
"Fiddle- dee- dee Rhett! Prissy couldn't tie up a mouse. Here I'll tie it up." Scarlett offered as she reluctantly pulled up her dress and ripped her best silk petticoat. "Here," She said. "This should hold him. At least he seems friendly enough."
Rhett was shocked. Scarlett didn't argue about taking the cow and even more shocked when she tore her petticoat but nevertheless he took the petticoat and tied up the cow.
Rhett entered the wagon and Scarlett gave one last sorrowful look at Twelve Oaks. It was no longer the grand house she had wanted so desperately to be the Mistress of. With one last glance she joined Rhett. Silently the wagon moved. Soon she would see Tara again. The red earth she loved. Fear gripped Scarlett tightly, would Tara be gone also?
Chapter 7
Finally they were almost there. Only a few more miles then she would be home. The wagon finally pulled up to the end of the road and she saw Tara. It was still there. Scarlett let out a sob as she jumped out of the wagon, forgetting the others. There was only one thought on her mind "home." She ran quickly across the red earth, tripping over her dress. But she finally reached the door and knocked urgently, needing to see anyone to know that she wasn't dreaming.
A few minutes later Gerald opened the door; Scarlett threw her arms around him as she sobbed. Gerald immediately patted his daughter on the back and said soothingly:
" Katie Scarlett! There, there, Puss. Don't cry. Don't cry."
"Oh, Pa!" Scarlett cried. "Where's mother? I want to see her and… and Mammy, is Mammy still here?"
"Now, what a question!" Gerald bawled, "Now, Katie Scarlett I mustn't have taught you right. What a question! Mrs. O'Hara wouldn't be pleased. She is resting and you have no mind to be upsetting her now."
"Yes, Pa," Scarlett replied. She was too eager and happy to listen to her father. Just then she saw Mammy's familiar happy blackface. "Oh, Mammy!" Scarlett cried falling into Mammy's comforting arms.
"Honey Chile!" Mammy repeated, holding her "lamb" close.
A moment later, Scarlett heard Rhett's voice from behind her: "Mr. O'Hara, it is a pleasure to meet you again."
Mammy and Gerald looked up to her questioningly. Scarlett intervened hastily seeing the angry face of Mammy.
"Pa, you remember Captain Butler, don't you? He was kind enough to takes us out of Atlanta."
Rhett noticed the confused look on Gerald's face and replied, "Perhaps you don't recall me Mr. O'Hara. We met in Atlanta, oh… years ago. But I'm sure you don't remember. You're the devil himself with cards."
Gerald looked around guiltily as if he were to see Ellen's disapproving stare. Scarlett looked at Mammy again who was turning red with anger. She intervened efficiently.
"Captain Butler, I'll show you the guest room where Mrs. Wilkes will be staying."
"Cousin Melanie!" Gerald yelled cheerfully, losing his former guilt. "This is luck to be having such a fine lady staying with us. We are honored."
"Thank You Mr. O' Hara," Melanie weakly replied, as she laid her tired head against Rhett for support.
Scarlett started ascending up the stairs as Rhett followed behind her. They entered the dim lit room and Rhett gently laid Melanie on the bed. Prissy followed, laying the baby next to its mother.
"Do you need something, Melly?"
"No, Thank you darling," Melanie said quietly closing her eyes. Scarlett and Rhett left quietly, closing the door behind them.
"Rhett, will you be staying here for the night?" Scarlett asked as she leaned her back against the door for support.
"Yes, if you don't mind."
"Of course not. I'll tell Mammy to fix you a room."
"Thank you kindly Mrs. Hamilton," Rhett formerly replied.
Scarlett laughed. "I'm sorry Rhett. I didn't want to upset Mammy or Pa. You upset them enough with your indecent scandal. Poor Pa he didn't even hardly remember and Mammy…"
"My dear it wasn't gossip. If you recall I brought your father home quite drunk. And as for Mammy she doesn't like me too much. Even if I was a perfect angel she would still have the same opinion."
"Oh, she'll come around. Mammy is suspicious of everyman. Why, when my first beaux came around, she chased him around Tara with a broom. Poor man, I haven't heard from him since."
Rhett roared with laugher. "Really? Hopefully she won't chase me with a broom. But in case she does you'll know why I departed."
"Oh, Rhett!" Scarlett managed to say in between laughter. But her voice became serious again as she turned to him. "Rhett you won't go back to the army, will you?"
"I might," He replied. "But if I do I assure you Scarlett, I won't leave until I know your families safe."
"Thank you Rhett. You are good to me," Scarlett said as she tiptoed and kissed him on the cheek. She immediately blushed and clumsily stuttered, "I'll- I'll go get… tell Mammy to fix you a bed… I- I mean a room." With a swish of skirts Scarlett disappeared down the stairs.
Scarlett visited Ellen for the rest of the night and prayed repeatedly with her white Rosaries, that she wouldn't lose her. Finally it was dawn. She kissed Ellen's forehead and quietly left. Scarlett numbly made her way to her room where she fell into a restless sleep…
Chapter 8
Scarlett awoke quietly to the soft sound of the mockingbirds. Yes, finally she was home. She slipped on her tattered shoes and walked down the stairs wanting to speak to Mammy privately about what had happened since she was gone.
But instead she saw Gerald and Rhett sitting at the table playing cards with Wade peering over the top and the baby securely on Rhett's lap, protected in his strong arms. Scarlett, not wanting to bother the peaceful picture sat down quietly on the stairs listening.
"Now, young man I must teach you to play cards! You are not dealing correctly," Gerald bellowed taking the cards and dealing them. Gerald continued to speak, while keeping his eyes on the cards, concentrating. "Now lad, you must keep your eyes on the cards and concentrate. You don't want the cards running away from you, now do you?"
"No, sir." Rhett replied, "I would have never thought of keeping my eyes on the cards! I told everyone you're the finest card player in the whole South but well they would have to play you themselves… No wonder your daughter is so clever! She isn't like most ladies I know but she does have spirit. It must be the Irish and she is just like you clever and witty. I've known tons of Irish men and they are cleverer than the devil himself. But you are the far most intelligent one."
Gerald poured Rhett another drink and smiled proudly. "Yes, Katie Scarlett is the most witty and good child of them all. She could climb trees better than any of the bucks and she could ride well too. But she needs a good husband that will make her happy. You would make my, daughter happy Mr. Butler. You both are the same… But I am afraid she doesn't want to settle down and make a home to call her own and have her own family… Do you love my daughter Mr. Butler?"
Rhett was about to speak, when the baby started to cry. Rhett sighed with relief; at least he wouldn't have to answer. Yes, he loved Scarlett but what would happen if he admitted it? She would only use it against him. Rhett rocked the baby gently. Yes he was glad he didn't have to speak yet. He sure as to hell wasn't going to lie to Gerald O'Hara let alone Scarlett. He only hoped Gerald wouldn't ask him again.
Gerald stared with interest at the stranger who seemed to be taken with his daughter. He could tell that Rhett Butler would make a fine husband and father, the way he was holding Beau. Yes, he knew Rhett Butler would be good for his Scarlett but he knew something was amiss and decided not to press the subject. Just then he caught site of Scarlett sitting on the corner of the step.
"Katie Scarlett!" Gerald yelled waving his hands. "Don't tell me you have been spying on me now!"
Scarlett blushed like a child being caught. And she had. She would have to speak to her father about this. Imagine him trying to marry her off to Rhett! It was unthinkable. She couldn't imagine being married to another man, let alone Rhett.
"No, Pa. You both looked so content I didn't want to bother you when you're concentrating," Scarlett replied smiling prettily while shooting daggers at her father.
"Well then sit down daughter and watch me beat your beau," Gerald boasted as he took some more cards from the deck.
Scarlett was about to protest but didn't dare tell her father Rhett wasn't her beau. She sat by watching Rhett as he flattered Gerald and let him beat him at cards. She felt a fondness towards Rhett, that he would be so kind to her father. Most men didn't like to lose at card games but here he was, letting her father win.
However, soon Scarlett felt as if the walls were closing in on her. The house felt hot and stuffy. As the game was drawing to a close, Scarlett stood up deciding to go on a small walk. "Pa I'm going for a little walk."
Gerald sternly shook his head. "Katie Scarlett this is no time for walking! Puss, it is dangerous with the war. Mrs. O' Hara won't approve of her daughter walking alone, when she might be attacked any minute."
Rhett saw Scarlett's face fall and intervened smoothly. "Well I was going for a walk also Mrs. Hamilton. The sunset is amazing this time of year. Care to join me?"
Gerald answered for her, "You can go puss. But don't be gone too long. Mr. Butler and I have another game." Gerald proudly smiled as he shuffled the deck.
Scarlett nodded her head with a bright smile as Rhett led her outside, his arm barley touching her waist. They walked quietly for a while until Scarlett broke the silence:
"Rhett… how long will you stay?"
"That depends on you, my dear," He replied, his eyes boring into hers. She looked away.
"Why me?" Scarlett asked quietly, tightening her grip on Rhett's arm, unconsciously.
"Well, you and your family of course," Rhett said. After a moment he stopped and stared at the hundreds of acres. "What do you see, Scarlett?"
"Well… um… land," Scarlett stuttered, not liking Rhett's serious, intense gaze.
"Yes. Your father plants cotton on this land and in a few months it will be ready to be picked and sold for the upcoming winter. And I know Scarlett that your family will depend on it. This winter will be cold. I intend to see the cotton is picked before I leave."
Scarlett stared at Rhett's determined face in astonishment. "Rhett it… is- is, well it is very kind of you to want to help my family but… you needn't act like a field hand and pick cotton on my account. After all the darkies will do that."
Rhett's face broke into mocking laughter. His face became jeering again as he spoke, "Yes. I suppose I don't owe you anything. But I am going to help just the same. You're a naïve child, Scarlett. If you can't see there are only four darkies left. One being a mother and the other being Mammy who is too old to slave away on the fields. And I sure as to hell don't want to mention the fact that stupid Prissy couldn't pick a flower. The only one that can probably be useful is Pork."
"Why! Rhett Butler that is awfully sweet of you!" Scarlett cried. She hadn't seen this side to Rhett before. He had always taunted her and disappeared from her life but now he was going to help them, she was grateful.
"I'm not doing it for you, Scarlett. I'm going to slave away for the well being of your family. I plan to leave in a few weeks so don't be getting any ideas you can make me stay here and slave away like a love sick puppy for you. It isn't a very charming job and as it is I have better things to do. I suppose I am staying because your family holds love, charm and grace and that is something you don't have my dear. It reminds me of when I was a boy, the innocence life could possess."
Scarlett could only nod in sorrow. That even Rhett would think of her that low. They were friends and he had always helped her and now he didn't seem to care. Suddenly Scarlett turned her head away as she felt remorseful tears well up in her eyes and turned to leave. But before she could reach the house she felt Rhett's strong arms go around her as he held her close.
"I'm sorry darling. I had no right to judge you. I may be a cad but… I didn't mean to say those things. I was only taking out my anger on you because you have everything I ever wanted as a boy. You have a father that… But my darling that's no excuse I'm sorry," Rhett declared in that of a pained child's voice as he rubbed her back gently.
She could only nod and then finally managed to speak. "I'm- it's not your fault, Rhett. I- I know I can be mean spirited at times and people hate me for it. You've been so kind to all of us and I have been so mean. I'm sorry. I can tell you anything Rhett but why don't you ever tell me if something is wrong or… well if you are just upset? Do you not trust me? You know I would listen and not judge you. You do know that don't you?" She asked searching Rhett's passive face.
"Yes I know," Rhett finally said. He kissed Scarlett lightly on her brow and then handed her his handkerchief. "Are you ready to head back now Scarlett? As much as I enjoy my time alone with you I'm afraid Mammy will skin me alive."
Scarlett laughed at the thought of Mammy chasing after Rhett with a broom. "Yes, Rhett let's go in now." She hesitantly reached her hand out for Rhett's arm not knowing if he would refuse her. But to her delight Rhett only smiled as they walked silently together. Somehow no words had to be said and for the first time since the war Scarlett was content.
Chapter 9
Rhett worked diligently on the fields. Mammy complained now of his conducts. She felt now they owed a filthy Scalawag and Mammy didn't want to be in debt to any one especially Rhett.
But on the other hand everyone else was fond of Rhett. Soon Dilcey, Pork and even Melanie were working in the fields with him. Scarlett told Melanie it would kill her if she were to pick cotton all day but Melanie only laughed and said:
"Scarlett darling, don't worry about me. Captain Butler is very kind he's always so thoughtful. I only carry the basket. It surely won't kill me. I owe it to him and you for being so kind…"
Scarlett didn't press the subject again. If Melanie wanted to kill herself that was fine by her as long as she didn't leave her baby behind in her hands. Babies were annoying, just why anyone would have one; it escaped her notice. But Rhett didn't seem to mind babies. He took Beau and Wade everywhere with him. Wade who hardly uttered a word talked a mile a minute with Rhett and he listened intently answering all his questions.
But Scarlett was too stressed and weary to see her life was good. All she did anymore was yell at the others and give orders. Everyone fled when Scarlett's tantrums arose except for Rhett. He only stayed by watching her temper in amusement.
One cold early November evening Scarlett and the whole family were sitting at the table having small dried apples and some small vegetables she was able to find and the fish Rhett had caught.
As Scarlett watched the family picking at the only food they had. She became angry at the thought that they were starving while her sisters and the whole household complained and were too lazy to do anything about it!
Abruptly Scarlett rose, throwing her napkin down roughly. "I'm so sick and tired of everyone complaining about the food and not doing one damn thing about it! While I work like a field hand and slave away night and day just to keep enough food in our mouths! Everyone leave now before I- I do something you all will regret!"
When no one moved, too shocked to do anything but stare, Scarlett screamed and grabbed all the plates, throwing them on the floor causing everything to shatter. Melanie turned pale and Wade and Beau began to cry.
"Get out of here, now! Are you all deaf! I said get out!" Scarlett screamed as she grabbed another plate, intending to throw it. But before she could throw it, Rhett grabbed Scarlett's wrist, holding it tightly. Scarlett struggled against Rhett and then started to scream and kick. But Rhett only held her tighter.
"Shut up!" Rhett whispered roughly. "Damn it! Quit fighting Scarlett!" He twisted her arm again roughly, causing Scarlett to cry out. Abruptly she stopped struggling.
Rhett gave everyone a sharp look, telling everyone to leave. Everyone obediently left except for Mammy. She stayed rooted to the ground, with a disapproving glare.
Rhett said irritably, "Mammy will you please leave us alone for a moment?"
"I'm not a leaven you with my lamb. You kin give my lamb to me."
Scarlett glared at Mammy, but said as sweetly as she could: "Mammy will you please leave me alone… a moment. You're such a darling to worry about me so but I can take care of myself."
Mammy's only reply was an ignorant grunt and shake of her head.
"Mammy if you don't leave now I'm not going to be able to curb my er- desires," Rhett said as he brushed his lips against Scarlett's neck, as if he were going to kiss her. Scarlett stared at Rhett in shock, forgetting her earlier grief.
Mammy's eyes widened in shock as she hastily waddled her weight to the door and banged it noisily, with a thump, as if scolding Scarlett.
Rhett only chuckled as he kept his eyes on the door until he felt Scarlett's fingers holding his shirt firmly and heard her gasping sobs.
"What is it, honey?" Rhett said surprisingly soft. Scarlett stared at Rhett's comforting eyes and felt as if she could tell him anything.
"Oh, Rhett I am so afraid and tired. I'm sick of working and plowing and… Oh that's not the worst part! I'm scared to death of wondering if something will happen. Of who will come next? I thought Pa could take care of everything but he can't- has never taken care of everything important only mother. And now mother is sick and… Oh if she were to die I wouldn't be able to go on. You once said I wasn't afraid but I am now! I can't lose mother, Tara or… you!"
"Haven't I told you before my pet, you can't send me away?" Rhett asked jestingly, hoping to lighten Scarlett's mood but to his efforts she only cried more. Rhett continued speaking:
"My pet what makes you so sure that you'll lose everything? I promise you Scarlett; you won't lose Tara or me for that matter… Suddenly it seems your tastes have changed, Scarlett. Why this sudden change of heart for my well- being? Perhaps you can enlighten me?"
Even though Rhett spoke in jest, Scarlett could still hear a warm note in his tone. Scarlett stayed in Rhett's arms as she spoke:
"Rhett, I have lost everyone but you and Tara. I feel like I am losing mother, Pa and myself. I don't know what to do. I have lost everyone in the war. And I feel if you go, I won't see you again and a part of me would miss you… well, because I am quite use to you now."
Rhett laughed warmly as he pulled out his handkerchief and handed it to Scarlett.
"Dry your eyes Scarlett. There it's no use crying. I don't think I'll die. I still have a few years ahead of me and you needn't worry about Tara. No one can lick her; I dare say even Sherman. You are like Tara, Scarlett. No matter what happens you'll stay the same. Tara will be the grandest Plantation in the South, after the war is over of course."
Scarlett only cried more at the thought of Tara being grand again without all her beaux and her darling, Ashley. Ashley was gone, possibly dead and he wouldn't see Tara or Twelve Oaks ever again.
"It seems I am doing a hell of a job comforting you," Rhett said as he cradled Scarlett to him.
Just then there was a huge crash as the door flew open. Scarlett jumped away from Rhett's arms quickly, as she blushed profoundly.
Sally stood before her panting, with her dress covered in soil and her eyes bright. "Scarlett!" She cried, "the… the Yankees are coming!"
Scarlett grabbed Sally's arm urgently. "Where… where are they? Why are they here? Those filthy things have been here before!"
"I don't know but they are… there- Oh, Scarlett they are down the road! You must hurry! Hide all your food everything! Quickly, they will take it all! It will be alright Scarlett, hurry." Sally smiled bravely despite her fear as she ran outside, to escape.
Scarlett stood there frozen. All she could think of was they were going to take Tara away and everything… She had acted like a field hand and had plowed all these stifling hot days. No she hadn't worked for all this… not to only have Tara taken from her. And it wouldn't, not while she had breath in her body.
She madly dashed out of the kitchen watching the whole family, as they stood frozen.
"Hurry Pork, Prissy go get under the house and get the pigs! Suellen and Careen, go put any food you can into the baskets and go to the woods! And…"
"What shall I do, Scarlett?" Melanie asked eagerly, willing to do anything.
"Go, chase the cow and calf into the swamp with the horse, oh hurry, Melly!"
Melanie cried, starting to reach for Beau, when Scarlett yelled, "I'll watch him! Go! Hurry now!"
Scarlett grabbed Beau and then saw Gerald with a pistol in his hand, waiting for the Yankees. Pa! Oh, I have to get him out quickly.
"Pa, please go outside and make sure…"
"I am not leaving me on house!" Gerald bawled as he raised the pistol towards the door.
"Pa! You must go! It will be easier to deal with them if you are out. Pa, I promise if anything happens I'll call for you. Please go!" Scarlett cried, looking to Rhett for help.
Rhett walked over to Gerald and said, " Mr. O'Hara Lets go for a walk." Against Gerald's protest Rhett took his arm as he dragged him out to the back door.
Scarlett raced upstairs frantically as the crying Wade clung to her skirts. She grabbed any jewelry she could find. She grabbed her mother's earrings and broaches and her white beaded Rosary as she put them in Beau's diaper. Scarlett stared at her mother again as she put some important papers under the bed, knowing the Yankees wouldn't move her, her fever was gone but Ellen was still too weak.
She cautiously made her way downstairs as she heard the pounding of horse's hooves. There were at least five men. The men dismounted from their horses as they stalked inside the house. The Sergeant grinned as he made his way to Scarlett.
"You alone, little lady?" He asked as he started reaching for her.
Scarlett sneered angrily as she backed away. Holding the baby closely to her and said icily, "You know I'm not."
"That's a fact. But it might not be if you don't treat my men kindly." He sneered. "Go search the house," He called over his shoulder to the other men as they walked away in a row.
"You have anything in this house besides babies?" The Sergeant asked as he took a step forward, and put his fitly hands in her hair.
"You Yankees have been here before!" Scarlett said as she yanked her head away from his fingers and backed away. She found herself against the wall.
The Sergeant didn't move but spoke, "That's a fact. We were here sometime in September. Time sure does fly by." He said as he reached for Scarlett's hair but she roughly hit his hand away.
The Sergeant only laughed and then he looked past Scarlett's head as he saw a man enter the back door. Scarlett spun around seeing Rhett.
"Why Sergeant Crandall, what an unpleasant surprise." Rhett said as he carelessly strolled into the room.
The Sergeant stared at Rhett in shock and then broke out into howls of laughter. "Come here boys," He called out. "See what the cat dragged in."
Rhett only laughed as all the men surrounded him with guns, causing Rhett to laugh harder.
"Now you don't want to shoot me, men. We are not even on the battle field yet."
"I thought you were dead Butler? Well we should have shot you when we had the chance."
"Now, you wouldn't want to do that Sergeant. I am a wounded defenseless man and I don't like getting shot. As I recall it's not too much fun."
"You wounded, I don't believe it," The Sergeant said as he stared at Scarlett and then Rhett with an evil glare.
"Well I would show you my chest, where I was wounded but you wouldn't believe me and probably would shoot me in the chest…" Rhett said as he winked at Scarlett. Oh! The nerve, Scarlett angrily thought, she would kill him!
"Look what I found Sergeant." A tall attractive man interrupted as he carried Charles sword to him.
He inspected the sword carefully and then said: "We'll take it with us."
Scarlett cried out quickly as she tried to grab the sword. "Oh, Captain! Please you can't take the sword it's my boy's and it was his fathers. Please give it to me!"
The trooper who was carrying the sword grunted as he glared at Scarlett. "Sarge you can't give her that sword, it is solid- gold hilt."
"To hell I can't!" The Sergeant said brusquely. "I am the Sergeant and you are the private, Bub! I give the orders and you follow them. Let her have it! I have no use to it. Let her keep it to remember us by."
"It's a rebel sword," The man countered.
"No it's not!" Scarlett said coolly. "It is a Mexican War sword."
The man turned red with anger as he raised his hand as if to strike Scarlett, but in one swift move Rhett grabbed him around the throat.
"Now there'll be none of that. You won't touch a hair on her head or you'll be dead before sundown. You know, I think it would be interesting to strangle a man, to say in the least. But unfortunately, when I do I would rather enjoy it." Rhett's eyes flashed with anger as he released the man.
The man took one step forward to hit Rhett but he managed to catch the man's arm before. The other men raised their guns to Rhett.
"I don't think you'll want to shoot me Crandall. I happen to have oh… about a million dollars in gold, lying around. Now if you shoot me or well… do whatever you men are planning to do I promise you Sergeant, won't even see a cent. But well of course you knew that… being the refined man you are," Rhett, jeered him.
The Sergeant motioned for the men to lower their guns. He stared at Rhett a moment before talking to the trooper that had the sword:
"Bub, leave us alone! I am going to make a little deal with our friend Butler."
"By God, I'll give these damn Rebels something to remember me by!" shouted the private as he stormed out of the room.
"I'll make a deal with you Butler. You send me over the money and I'll let these people go and I won't burn their house. Now aren't I charitable."
"You play hard Crandall," Rhett said as he gave the matter a lot of thought. "Well, all right you'll have it soon but one can never tell about the mail nowadays. It will probably take some time. But as they say "Who can one trust but not a Confederate?"
"I'll see you at the front, Butler," The Sergeant said as he motioned for the others to follow him out the door.
Later that day, Scarlett found Rhett sitting on the porch with Wade, smoking a cigar leisurely. She placed her hands on her hips and frowned at Rhett as she spoke:
"Rhett you aren't really going to give those filthy things your money are you? A million dollars in gold! Why… I could restore…"
Rhett laughed. "Good, God Scarlett, you're such a child! I would never give those damned Yankees my money!"
"But… well won't they come back and…"
"I'm going to send them money but by the time they get it the war will be over and it takes years for mail to be delivered. So, you see my pet I am going to send them Confederate bonds, which is no use to anyone nowadays. In a year they'll get there hands on "tainted money." Rhett confidently said as his white teeth gleamed under his neatly trimmed mustache.
"Fiddle-dee-dee! Tainted money indeed!" Scarlett indignantly cried. "Are you trying to tell me Rhett Butler you were acting like a gallant hero this whole time while all this time you were going to send them paper!"
"Yes," Rhett simply replied as he put out his cigar with a grin. With a bow Rhett picked up the sleeping Wade and went into the house.
Rhett was the most ill bred man she had ever known nevertheless he was the wittiest, clever, daring and most handsome man she had ever known. She couldn't help but smile at Rhett's impudence, as she went into the house.
Chapter 10
With the days that went by, came Christmas and with Christmas came a new hope for Tara. Even though Tara had seen better years it was still striving with the help of Rhett. Ellen was even well enough to eat with the family for their first Christmas dinner together since the war.
With Christmas came another surprise, Frank Kennedy. Frank came with a small troop to Tara and was eager to see family again, more eager than Scarlett was.
Scarlett became more irritated as the days went by. Just when things were good and well Frank had to come. She knew Rhett and Frank wouldn't get along. And Ellen hardly out of bed! She was sure there would be a brawl. But surprisingly, Rhett often talked to Frank and they could be heard laughing late into night.
Finally it was Christmas. The family sat together telling tales as if the war had never graced the land:
"Cheer up Ladies we'll beat those damn Yankees! Uh… I'm sorry, misses but well… I was saying, we'll win!" Frank said cheerfully as he shyly smiled at Suellen.
"Of course we will," Melanie said as tears came to her eyes. "How is Aunt Pitty? Poor Auntie she was nearly frightened to death."
"Why, didn't I tell you ladies; your Aunt Pitty's house is still standing," Frank said as he smiled again at Suellen, causing Scarlett to smile against her will.
"That's wonderful! However did it escape?" Melanie cried as she laid a hand over her heart.
"Well, Miss Melanie, Miss Pitty has the only house in Atlanta with a slate roof. So the fire went right over it. She was so relieved I say she nearly kissed Henry Hamilton!"
With that thought everyone burst into peals of laughter. Scarlett glanced through her lashes at Rhett. Something seemed to have been bothering him all day. She quickly glanced away from Rhett as she saw Ellen's stern look.
"Scarlett dear," Melanie said. "Now that Aunties home don't you think we should go to Atlanta? Auntie isn't very strong like you and…"
"That's fine by me Melanie if you want to go but I can't! The war isn't over yet and I am not leaving here just to sit with that old …" Scarlett quickly stopped speaking as she saw another disapproving stare from Ellen.
"Melanie, I can't go. As you can see I want to stay with my family," Scarlett said more sweetly as she smiled prettily.
"Oh, of course darling! I'm sorry I didn't mean it that way. I won't leave you, while you stayed with me. It's the least I can do honey. And don't worry about Auntie, I'm sure she will be just fine with Uncle Peter."
Ellen smiled at Scarlett and then said softly, "Scarlett dear, if Aunt Pitty needs you I understand. I know you wanted to make sure your sisters and I are well but you needn't worry."
"Ma, I can't leave! I don't want to! Auntie will be fine. Won't she Melly? Of course she will. I know she will. But I simply can't leave! Why, it's Christmas and… if Auntie is still afraid and doesn't have protection, well… I'll go to Atlanta after the war."
"Of course dear. You can stay I'm not forcing you."
The house became quite as everyone smiled awkwardly. The room was freezing and the early minutes, which were carefree, were turned into a thick, careful atmosphere.
Finally Rhett broke the silence with a hearty laugh. "Mrs. Wilkes, Mrs. O'Hara you needn't fret. I am certain Miss Hamilton is more than safe. I promise I'll call on her the minute I arrive in town, to make sure she is well."
"Oh! Captain Butler that is so kind of you! I was sick with worry! I wouldn't forgive myself if anything were to happen to Auntie!"
Everyone smiled gratefully at Rhett. Everyone was quite fond of Aunt Pittypat Hamilton. Just why anyone would be, Scarlett didn't know. But she had better things to ponder about. She could barley keep from staring at Rhett with her mouth agape. Town! Rhett hadn't even spoken to her or explained of his sudden departure.
"Town?" Scarlett asked innocently. "I hadn't known you were going to town, Rhe… Captain Butler."
Rhett smiled knowingly. It wasn't lost on him that Scarlett couldn't keep her nose out of peoples affairs. Rhett smiled as he silkily replied:
"Yes ma'am."
Scarlett scowled at Rhett. He was impossible! If she wanted to know anything out of that impudent cad she would have to beg. Well Scarlett O'Hara didn't beg to anyone, especially to the likes of Rhett Butler.
"You can always catch more flies with honey," Scarlett thought as she smiled with all the innocence she possessed.
"Well Captain Butler why ever would you go to town at this time of year? It is so dreary and well… I know how towns can be very bothersome." Scarlett stared at Ellen and saw the disapproving stare that Ellen had always used when she was out of her place.
But she didn't care. Suddenly Ellen's words came back to her: "It's the women's job to raise their children and take care of their homes and most importantly her husband. A true lady must never bother in her husband's affairs. But only when asked upon."
Those words didn't mean anything to Scarlett any longer. Just like her most valued principles before the war were replaced with only the thoughts of freedom and her own curiosity. "Great balls of fire! It's not as if he were my husband," Scarlett thought. At least that gave her some rights.
"Well, Mrs. Hamilton I dare say it is not a very interesting subject for ladies. It is only men's business in town. I'm sure you would be bored to tears with all this men talk," Rhett said in a scolding tone, as if she were a child.
Scarlett bit down on her lip to keep from screaming out loud. She couldn't believe him! That cad acted as if she were a child in front of Ellen and the whole family! Why, even Frank looked embarrassed. Well he should be with all this high talk of war and Atlanta. It was almost enough to bore someone to death. Scarlett glared at Rhett but managed to smile.
Ellen sensed Scarlett's mood and quickly rose.
"Scarlett dear we needn't sit here all day. Let us retire to the parlor and play Christmas songs."
Everyone rose as they made their way to the parlor. Suellen glared at Scarlett. Scarlett couldn't help but stick her tongue out with an icy glare, an unladylike manner. Ellen frowned but Scarlett only stayed seated staring at Rhett.
"Mother I'll only be but a minute. I would wish to speak to Captain Butler about Auntie," Scarlett innocently said as she smiled.
"Alright dear. But don't be to long," Ellen reluctantly agreed as she left.
As soon as Ellen was gone, Scarlett's eyes met Rhett's and she saw his knowing impudent grin and wished whole-heartedly she could wipe it off his conceited face with her hand. But she only smiled innocently.
"Rhett, why didn't you tell me you were going to town? I wasn't sure why? Are you going to see a sweetheart, Rhett?"
Rhett roared with laughter as he spoke, "Scarlett you're a terrible liar! You, my dear innocent girl can't keep your precious nose out of others business can you? No you can't. And I assure you Scarlett I am not going to see a sweetheart. Well I might go see Belle but I could hardly consider her my sweetheart. Well… maybe more as a lover."
Scarlett stood up in rage as she clenched her fists. "You are a unspeakable cad! You low down nasty thing, you! How dare you speak about that creature on Christmas…"
Rhett only laughed as he slowly approached Scarlett. "Come, Scarlett you needn't throw mean ugly words at me on Christmas. Belle isn't my lover nor has she ever been. I'm not going to town to see Belle but only to check on Pitty."
"You aren't lying to me are you Rhett?"
"Now what would I get out of lying? No, Scarlett I am telling you the truth." Scarlett was satisfied with that answer as she sat down next to Rhett.
"Well Rhett why are you going to town if you aren't going to see … well you know whom. Surely you aren't going to just call on Aunt Pitty."
"Partly, yes. I am going with Frank to join our Glorious Cause," Rhett frankly stated as he lazily leaned back on the settee.
"The army! Oh, Rhett you are joking with me! Oh, I could kill you for scaring me so."
"You hurt me Scarlett. Surely you don't think that low of me to actually believe I would lie to you," Rhett quipped as he put a hand over his heart in mock pain. "I'm serious Scarlett. I have been out of the army for almost five months now. I want to be there when we or well… Sherman surrenders. You're more than safe Scarlett, I assure you. The Yankees wouldn't dare pester you as long as I have their money and am alive… But you needn't worry about that, I intend to stay alive."
"When will you leave Rhett?" Scarlett asked forlornly as she closed her eyes and covered her forehead with her hand.
"Tomorrow. If you don't mind?"
"No… no, of course not. I dread saying this but Rhett I'll miss you. We all will. Thank you for everything."
Rhett smiled warmly as he grabbed Scarlett's hand gently and kissed it. "I'll miss you too Scarlett. You're one hell of a appealing woman but not more than the law will permit. I dare say life won't be the same without you."
Scarlett grinned demurely as she shivered with pleasure. "I hope you aren't going to ask me to be your mistress, Rhett. It would be very rude. Since we are getting along now and I don't want to have another quarrel before you leave."
"Now why would I do that on Christmas, Scarlett? That was years ago. I'm not the same person any more."
"No?"
"No. Will you ever let me forget it? I hope you aren't going to hold it against me until I die. Now that my dear would be very rude."
Scarlett only smiled as she feigned thinking. "No, I wouldn't want to be rude. I'll just wait until you're on your deathbed."
"You little hypocrite!" Rhett quipped as he laughed and kissed Scarlett's hand again before laying it on her lap.
"Really Scarlett would it be so ghastly to be my Mistress?" Rhett asked as he arched his brow in question.
"Well… umm… truthfully Rhett, I don't think it would be too dreadful. You're a rich handsome man who can be the most charming person at times. But other times you are a…"
"Now Scarlett, don't throw ugly words at me again. That would be very unladylike. I know you want to be one. And a true lady never gives a compliment and then pollutes it with false accusations."
"Humph! They aren't false. They are very true in fact. But let us not talk about this! It's Christmas!"
"All right," Rhett said as he rose from the settee. "I shan't talk about in now but don't think your off the hook, Scarlett. Lets go to the parlor before I ask you to join me to my room."
Surprisingly Scarlett laughed as she put her hand in Rhett's. She wasn't going to let any of his remarks spoil their mood. After all it was Christmas…
Rhett and Frank were making last minute preparations before they left as Scarlett brought them the food she had prepared for their journey.
Everyone stood out side as they gave them kind and grateful words of farewell. Melanie cried as she held Beau tightly to her and Frank blushed profoundly as Suellen catered to him.
Rhett held Wade close to him as he whispered something to the boy causing him to smile with delight. After Rhett tousled Wade's brown hair he set him to the ground and strode over to Ellen and Melanie.
He lifted Ellen's had to his lips at a proper level. "Mrs. O'Hara I appreciate your hospitality. I haven't stayed at a nice plantation like this since I was a boy. It brought back wonderful memories."
Ellen smiled. "You have been very thoughtful Mr. Butler to us all. Thank you. Your mother raised a kind and thoughtful gentleman whom I'm not ashamed to welcome here anytime you wish to come. There is always a place for you at our home."
"Thank you ma'am," Rhett replied as he dropped his eyes slightly, not use to so much praise. He then turned to Melanie. "Mrs. Wilkes, I promise you that when I see Mr. Wilkes I'll give him your message and tell him about his son."
"Thank you Captain Butler," Melanie said as her face lit up with the thought of Ashley and Beau. With a small timid smile she made her way to Frank.
After everyone said their goodbyes, the troopers and Frank mounted their horses as they rode off. Rhett stayed behind as he grabbed the horse's rein and walked over to Scarlett.
"I wanted to say goodbye to you last," Rhett said. "Walk me to the gate, Scarlett. I'll catch up with Frank later." Scarlett nodded as she walked along side Rhett.
They walked in silence until they reached the gate. Both enjoying their last walk together.
"Rhett will you come to Tara or Atlanta after the war," Scarlett asked as she toyed with her sleeve.
"I might someday. But I want to travel some after the war. There's nothing to keep me tied down to Atlanta now."
"Oh," Scarlett said disappointedly as she finally gazed at Rhett's handsome face. "I hope to see you again, Rhett. Life is boring without you and you're the only one who understands me and accepts me for who I am."
"Haven't you ever noticed you are the only one who accepts me, Scarlett? Yes, there are a few who would accept me. Melanie accepts me; she is about the only one. But if she knew who I really was I think… no I know she would turn away. Melanie is a rare sweet and pure person who can't and won't accept the truth. She only sees the good in people. She'll always defend and love you no matter what you do. I suppose that is your cross and mine, Scarlett."
"Yes, Melanie only sees good in me. I always wondered why she didn't see who I really am. But I suppose I should be grateful. There are only a few people who would help me Mammy, ma, pa, Melanie and you. I'm very grateful to you Rhett. If there was any way I could repay you I would gladly."
"I can think of a few ways," Rhett said huskily as he stared at Scarlett's lips.
Scarlett blushed as she stared at her slippers. Finally she quickly gave Rhett a quick kiss on his cheek.
"I was hoping for something better," He stated disappointingly as he waited.
Scarlett stepped forward as she timidly placed her mouth on Rhett's. She kissed Rhett for a second and was about to pull away but Rhett placed his arms around Scarlett's tiny waist not allowing her to move.
Finally they broke away from each other breathless. Scarlett stared at Rhett and then stared at her slippers again in embarrassment. She had never kissed any man like that before. And any other man's kisses had never affected her half as much as Rhett's had.
Rhett grinned mischievously as he spoke, "If I had known you were such a great kisser, Scarlett, I would have done that years ago." When Scarlett didn't speak he handed her a small box. "I haven't any use for it now. But I'm sure it will be a perfect match for you, Scarlett. It's a Christmas present, but don't open it until I'm gone. I would rather you wait until you're inside. I wouldn't want you to faint out here all alone. And you are too heavy to carry," He teased. But he knew he could easily carry Scarlett for miles without ever becoming tired.
"Oh, Fiddle- dee- dee! I never faint Rhett! Thank you for the present. I'm sure I'll love it even if it is a lump of coal," She teased back. "But… I- I'm afraid I haven't one for you."
"That can be easily remedied," Rhett said as he took her in his arms and kissed her again. Rhett released Scarlett and then kissed her forehead lightly. "Good bye, Scarlett. Keep well." With one last glance Rhett mounted his horse and rode off.
Scarlett watched Rhett until he disappeared into the horizon. She touched her lips with a grin. She could still feel the warmth of Rhett's mouth over hers.
With a last look Scarlett placed the small box securely into her dress pocket. She would open it later when she was alone in her room and had time to think… Rhett was still arrogant if he thought she would faint yet, she was unaware of everything around her all she saw was Rhett's handsome swarthy face as she made her way to the house…
Chapter 11
Once Scarlett entered her room she laid down on her bed as she pulled out the box, her Christmas present. For a moment she held the small box as she rubbed the smooth surfaces with her worn fingers.
Finally with shaky fingers she opened the box. She nearly dropped the box in shock as she saw the diamond ring she had only tried on a few months ago. She slipped it on her finger and admired its exquisiteness.
Out of the corner of her eye she saw a small white paper lying on the velvet padding of the box. With shaky fingers Scarlett lifted the paper and opened it. She recognized Rhett's bold, sweeping writing:
My dear Mrs. Hamilton,
Merry Christmas. Now you can flaunt your ring to every woman in Georgia. I dare say you will be the most envied woman. Since I am a most unsuitable bachelor and will not find another woman whom would accept it. I give it to you. Now you can say you have something others don't have and can wear this gaudy ring until you remarry. That is if you do. But as I said before 'God help the man that ever really loves you'. Give my best regards to the family. Merry Christmas, Scarlett, Keep well. Consider it a most suitable Christmas present and a going away present from your most admired…
Yours,
R.K.B.
Scarlett giggled as she read the letter again. She never expected anything less from Rhett Butler. She would never remove the ring; it was too exquisite. But what would Mother and Mammy say! Well it didn't matter. No matter what anyone said she would wear this ring. Wearing an engagement ring only four years after Charles death would cause a scandal but she didn't care.
"Gods nightgown it's not as if I were engaged to him." Scarlett thought. But still she couldn't help but feel a bit forlorn that Rhett wouldn't even consider too wed her. "What would it be like to be married to Rhett Butler?" Scarlett wondered as she examined her ring.
All of Rhett's hard work paid off that cold winter. They had enough food to last the whole family. Scarlett was grateful to Rhett. She knew she could never repay him for all that he had done.
As the months went by, Scarlett thought more and more of Rhett. "It's strange it's almost as if I love him," Scarlett mused. "But I don't! I love Ashley." But she thought of Rhett often… And finally at the end of January, Scarlett decided after Tara was plentiful and the war was over she would go to Atlanta and find him.
Early March came and Scarlett breathed more easily. By the end of the month it would almost be summer. Hopefully the war would be over soon and then she wouldn't have to worry about the Yankees. But as the days and weeks went by Scarlett became less apprehensive. Rhett had said they wouldn't come back as long as he was alive. They hadn't come yet and that was a sign that Rhett was alive and well…
One early March morning everyone was working out on the fields. Except Scarlett, she was cleaning the house that day. She stood before the well as she carried buckets of water in and from the house.
As Scarlett was pulling another bucket of water from the well, she heard a familiar voice, "You alone hellcat?" She spun around quickly and recognized the Yankee. He was the one solider who had almost taken Charles sword. She saw two other soldiers who she didn't recall but they only seemed to not be a year over fourteen or fifteen.
Suddenly Scarlett remembered all they had done to Tara. "Get off this land!" She hissed as she took one forceful step forward.
The man only laughed. "Still the hellcat I see. Well I'm gonna teach you not to mess with us! You got me discharged and now I'm going to do what you did to me; take everything from you. Give me that ring lady!"
Scarlett glared at the man as she stood her ground. There wasn't anyway that she would hand over her ring to a damned Yankee. "No," Scarlett said as she continued to scowl.
The man took a step forward as he sneered but Scarlett was quicker as she threw the bucket of water at the man's head, knocking him out. She fled quickly as she made her way to the house but before she could even catch site of it, she felt hard, cold fingers on her arm as she was spun around roughly.
She had never seen a man so enraged. His eyes were as cold as steel as he grabbed her arm. On an impulse Scarlett smacked her left hand across his face, leaving a bloody wound with her ring across his left cheek. Before she could get over the shock the man threw her roughly to the ground. She heard her skirt being ripped as his rough hands crushed her. He was too strong to fight away.
Scarlett cried out as she felt a stab of intense pain. After he moved away from her trembling body, Scarlett tried to rise but couldn't. The next thing she heard was a gunshot.
She had never felt so frail and ill. She could barley make out the person approaching her. All she noticed was his light brown hair and blue eyes, as he laid his coat over her. Scarlett flinched as she felt his arms on her but he soothed her hair and whispered something incoherent. Scarlett took comfort in his soft voice and warms hands as she finally allowed him to pick her up.
Whispering words floated through the dimly lit room. Scarlett tried to open her eyes but to no avail she listened intently for any familiar voice. Everything became quite, and there were no soft murmuring voices any longer.
"Rhett," Scarlett called out as she lifted her arms to her abdomen. "Rhett!"
Melanie heard Scarlett's pleads as she gently wiped her hot forehead. "I'm here darling. Shh… Rest darling you're fine."
"Where's Rhett?" Asked Scarlett weakly as she opened her eyes.
"He's gone darling. He'll be here soon."
"When?"
"Very soon."
"When… When you do see him Melly, tell him I still have his… my ring. He gave it to me as a present," Scarlett murmured weakly as she fell asleep.
For the rest of the week Scarlett ran a high fever and called for Rhett. But he didn't come. Melanie was there and Ellen but not Rhett. Scarlett occasionally saw a brown-headed boy with soft blue eyes, sitting with her but hadn't recognized him. But she always felt at peace when she felt his warm hands holding hers…
A week after her fever broke, Scarlett was strong enough to sit up in bed. And she remembered everything. If only the fever had taken her memory, she wouldn't have to remember. But she did. She remembered the Yankee who had forced himself upon her and the brown-headed boy that was with him. She hadn't spoke to the boy but she knew he had shot the man, who had attacked her, Melanie had told her.
Scarlett was broken out of her thoughts as she heard a knock at the door. A moment later the boy slipped into the room, leaving the door slightly ajar.
"Ma'am, how are you feeling today?" He asked timidly as he kept his head bent.
She felt awful but she lied smoothly, "A lot better, thank you. Please sit down." The boy nodded as he timidly sat in the small chair next to the bed.
"What is your name?" Scarlett asked after a moment.
"Robert Willett, ma'am," The boy timidly said.
"Were you in the army, Robert?" She asked.
"Yes ma'am, I was," He declared proudly.
"Aren't you too young? You don't look any older than fifteen."
"No ma'am of course I'm not too young! There are boys that are younger than me. I'm only fourteen, Ma'am."
"Oh!" She gasped in shock, not realizing how young the boys in the army were. But Phil Meade was very young when he was in the army.
"Did you desert the army, Robert?" Scarlett curiously asked.
"No ma'am!" He yelled in shock as if it were a deadly sin, that no one had ever committed. "Well, I'm not there now 'cause I didn't have a choice ma'am. You see my brother… When he was discharged he wanted me to come with him and I couldn't refuse. Rafe, my brother was the only family I had left. My mother was a Confederate and my father a Yankee… We both had to stay with my father and fight with him."
"Do you mean… that- that man who … was your brother?" Scarlett stuttered in shock as she raised her hand to her mouth, her green eyes wide in shock.
"Yes ma'am," He said desolately. "Rafe, he lived a hard life. He was closer to my father… and I to my mother. Rafe was braver than me. And he was everything I wasn't… And after our father died in war, Rafe nearly lost his mind. He swore that he would kill every Confederate. My brother was very bitter, ma'am 'cause he had to grow up before he was ready. He was only thirteen when he joined. I would have gone… but I was only a ten year old boy and my ma wouldn't let me."
Scarlett stared at Robert in awe. He had lived through all this hell and acted as if it were nothing. That meant his brother was only sixteen years old when he died; the same age she was when the war started. She couldn't have bared it. And he had killed his brother for her.
"Robert, why did you kill… why would you have shot your brother? Anyone else would have only left me at his hands but… but you didn't," Scarlett quietly asked.
Robert thought a moment before he spoke, "You had a family ma'am that needed you… My mother died at the hands of a Confederate soldier and I couldn't have let the same thing happen to you. Rafe became bitter 'cause he lived through the war and poverty. Once war is in your blood and you become bitter there isn't anything you can do, ma'am. You'll live with it over your head for the rest of your life. My brother was a good man and soldier. He had feelings 'jus like you and me but he would have still died in the end. I'm only glad he didn't die a worst death."
Scarlett pondered over Robert's words for a moment before speaking, "Thank you, Robert… Your mother and father are gone but haven't you any other kin."
"No ma'am."
"Well you're more than welcome to stay here. We haven't customs as yours but I am quite sure my family would be happy to have you. Until it is safe for you to leave I think you would be more than comfortable here… And I insist you call me, Scarlett."
Robert grinned handsomely. "Thank you ma'am… I mean Scarlett. I can help work for my keep… I'm sure I'll be very useful." Abruptly, his grin faded. He stared at Scarlett's pale face, with an intent-searching stare. "Scarlett, ma'am I was wondering. Well… if you had thought of the possibility you might be with a- a child?"
All the color drained from Scarlett's face as she gaped at him. She hadn't even considered the possibility. What if she were! Oh, how would she ever face Ashley or Rhett? But she might be with a child now!
"I hadn't thought of the possibility," She dully confessed. "But I can have a child and… There's always a possibility that I am with one now."
Scarlett stared at her flat stomach as if she could see a sign that she was indeed pregnant. With a sickening thought she remembered her discomfort during Wade's pregnancy. All the hours of losing sleep and her morning sickness and her swollen ankles that she couldn't even dance on. "Damn it!" Scarlett cried as she fell into her pillow and burst into tears.
Robert wasn't sure what to do. He hadn't been around many women in his life; only his mother and he had never seen her cry, even when his father had died. Robert cautiously approached Scarlett as he placed a gentle hand on her shaking shoulder.
"It's alright Scarlett… I am sure you're not pregnant. I was only asking. I haven't been around to many ladies and I wasn't sure… and if you are, when and if the baby is born, I'll take it. You needn't even see it."
"No!" Scarlett cried. "I won't be a burden to anyone! Especially you! I'll carry it on my own. I don't need your charity or sympathy! It's… It's all my fault if only I would have listened!"
Robert tried to calm her. But to no avail Scarlett only kept crying as she buried her face deeper into the pillow. She shrank away from Roberts's hands. And Robert looked uneasily around, debating on how to handle it.
Before Robert could do anything else Ellen rushed through the door. "What is it Robert?" She questioned hastily as she sat next to Scarlett's shaking frame.
"I'm sorry Mrs. O'Hara I said something I shouldn't have said. Will you please excuse me ma'am?" Robert asked quietly as he stared to her with soft pleading eyes. Ellen nodded her consent as he left quickly.
"Darling! What is it? Did he offend you? He is only a boy…"
"No…!" Scarlett yelled spitefully. "He didn't say anything of a kind. Except I might be carrying a bastard child that I don't want! For God's sake! Oh… Please let me alone! Just leave please… I need to be left alone. Everyone's been hovering over me… as if I were an invalid! Well I'm not!"
Ellen stared sadly at her eldest daughter. "Alright dear. You rest and call me if you need anything." Ellen quietly left the room.
Scarlett angrily sighed. She hadn't known why she had lashed out at Ellen. Ellen had only been kind to her and she had lashed out at her! She felt great contempt at herself but it didn't matter… She might as well be dead. To be pregnant and not be married was worse than death! She sighed with disgust again as she stared at her stomach.
Robert seemed kind enough. He was only a boy and he had killed his brother for her. "I suppose I'm indebted to him for life." She glumly thought. She may be indebted to him but she wouldn't be a burden to anyone. Especially a Yankee…
Chapter 12
Despite Scarlett's illness she slowly had become well again. But not completely, she still trembled and was deathly pale. She refused to eat and stayed in her room. Ellen became exceedingly worried. She had seen Scarlett's heartbreak when Charles had died and feared for her life now…
But Robert proved to be helpful in many ways; he did all the hard work at Tara and seemed to bring happiness to the family they hadn't seen since Rhett had left.
"He is still a Yankee though," Scarlett would often vehemently think. And any Yankee was a traitor to her but three weeks after Robert's arrival she found herself softening towards Robert's kind ways.
Careen even seemed to be taken with Robert. She hadn't been quite the same since Brent had died but now Careen's cheeks were their normal rosy color and she laughed a lot more these days. Careen may have been three years his senior but Robert had an air which made him seem seventeen.
A week later Scarlett's happy mood became bitter. She had the most dreaded news; she was pregnant. She tried to ignore the fact but couldn't.
During dinner Scarlett was in a bitter mood and didn't so much as touch her food. She snapped at anyone who tried to include her in the normal conversation of war and finally the family gave up…
After Scarlett retired and lay in bed she heard Ellen's light footsteps in the corridor. A moment later Ellen came quietly in and sat on the edge of the bed.
"Darling what is it? You were very upset during dinner. Are you not feeling well?" Ellen asked as she placed her small hand to Scarlett's forehead.
"No ma. I'm… I'm pregnant," Scarlett bitterly answered.
Ellen froze a moment as her brow became furrowed in worry. "Are you sure darling? It has only been a month and it's still too early to tell…"
"No, I'm sure," Scarlett answered with all finality, no doubt was visible in her voice. "I went through it one time before."
"Yes I am," She dully thought. "And I'll have to bare it… but not now. I'll deal with it tomorrow." She wouldn't cry anymore about it but tonight… She needed to… and needed to be in the comforting arms of Ellen. She burst into tears as she wrapped her shaking arms around Ellen.
Ellen held her daughters shaking body until she fell asleep. Ellen caressed her daughters pale cheek before quietly making her way to Melanie's room…
"Melanie? May I come in?"
A moment later Melanie came to the door with Beau in her arms. "Mrs. O'Hara? Oh Yes, please come in."
Melanie laid Beau down to sleep and quietly sat next to Ellen. "Is everything alright Mrs. O'Hara? Is there anything I can do? Is it Scarlett…?"
"No, there isn't, Melanie. I'm afraid there is nothing we can do. It's Scarlett… she's with… with a child."
Melanie's small face turned pale as she grabbed Ellen's hand tightly. "Are you… you sure. It's been too soon. Why, I didn't know of Beau until at least three months."
"Yes I'm sure. Scarlett told… told me awhile ago."
"Oh!" Melanie cried, "Poor, poor dear! How is she? May I go see her, now?"
Ellen sadly shook her head. "Not now. She is resting."
"Yes… she needs her rest and time alone. Does Mr. O'Hara or Robert know yet?"
"No, not yet. I think it best I tell Mr. O'Hara… I do not know if Scarlett think it best I tell him or her but I'll let her. I think it's best she is the one to- to tell him. My poor daughter…" Ellen quietly said as tears ran down her high pale cheeks.
Melanie instinctively went to Ellen and put her arms around her. Ellen couldn't contain her broken sobs any longer as she let out all of her sorrow on Melanie's sturdy shoulders. The pain of losing Philippe and the heartbreak her daughter was going through.
"It's alright Mrs. O'Hara… Scarlett will be fine. I'll see to it myself. It is the least I can do… She has been so kind to me. No sister could have been sweeter… Oh, if only Captain Butler were here… He always knew how to make Scarlett have higher spirits. Its inventible Captain Butler loves her so. Why…" Melanie stopped in shock as she remembered whom she was speaking to. "I'm sorry, Mrs. O'Hara… I-I was… was too outspoken and… Oh please forgive me," Melanie said in alarm as she blushed and lowered her eyes.
"No, it's quite alright, Melanie. You're right. I tried to ignore it but… well I know Captain Butler's reputation. But he was very kind and not once did he offend anyone. He is a very good man and I would be proud to have him as my son. Especially he was good to Scarlett… I hope he is well… I must go speak to Mr. O'Hara now. Please excuse me…"
Later that evening Scarlett was quietly sitting on her bed as she stared out towards the horizon. She was thinking about all her old beaux and her carefree day's as a child. She ached for those days and for Rhett… She thought of Rhett often. She missed him much more than she would care to admit. But Ashley…
"Does Ashley even matter anymore?" Scarlett thought quietly. "Well of course he does, that's just silly…"
She quietly snuck out of the house that night and walked around the fields. Trying to find comfort as she had when she was a child and had. When she had had the finest silk dresses and soft slippers and white smooth hands. When she had only worried about the dress she would wear for the next party.
But all she had was Tara… The Yankees hadn't taken it away yet, but if they did… where would they all go? They would blame her for boarding a Yankee deserter. Scarlett sighed as she played with her ring. All hope was gone for going to Atlanta… She would have to stay.
She heard footsteps coming towards her. She looked up and saw Robert quietly approaching her.
"Ma'am… I-I well I came to ask if you were with... The family wouldn't tell me."
Scarlett stared at Robert a moment. Why did he have to remind her when she forgot and when she thought of her precious Ashley? Life was cruel to not even give her a moment in peace. Ashley was all she had left besides Tara.
"Yes," She dully replied.
"Are you sure you won't reconsider ma'am? I can take the child."
Scarlett glared at Robert and then looked away. "No, I won't. This is my burden and I'll carry it alone."
"Yes ma'am," Robert answered sadly.
"Gods nightgown! Don't call me ma'am!" She yelled. "I am not some old matron! I'm only twenty years old, for God's sake! Don't treat me as an invalid old fool!"
Robert hadn't known too much of woman's temperament but he did know when someone needed comfort. He quietly approached Scarlett and put his arms around her. She didn't refuse him but she only wrapped her arms around his slender waist.
"I'm sorry, Scarlett. I know you're not an old matron. I'm sure you'll never be. You're too damn beautiful to ever be one… I'll help you even if you say it's your burden. Well it's mine too. I'll be his uncle and the baby's part of me as well."
Scarlett gratefully looked up to Robert. She knew she could depend upon him. "Thank you, Robert," She quietly said.
Robert smiled as he handed her his handkerchief. Scarlett laughed, remembering Rhett had always lend her his.
"Rhett… he had always gave me his handkerchief," She said noticing his confusion. "He was, I mean is my… my friend. He's off at war also."
"Do you miss your friend?" He asked curiously. She seemed to care a great deal of her friend to have the memory of him brighten her spirits.
"Yes- yes I do… It's very strange though I always feel different when I am with him. Rhett… he has always been there for me," Scarlett admitted aloud and to herself for the first time. "It's almost as if I were in love with him… But I am not. I love someone else. I always shall."
"People change. Nothing ever stays the same forever," Robert said wisely. "Rhett seems like a good fellow though… I would like to meet him someday."
"That's not very unlikely. He's still at war and he won't come back… He said he might someday."
"I'm sure he will," Robert said. "Scarlett do you mind if I stay at least until the baby is born and then I promise I'll leave when you tell me to."
"If it helps your conscious," She dully answered forgetting their earlier topic.
Robert nodded as he made his way to the house.
Scarlett watched the horizon a moment longer before walking after Robert. "Every thing will be over tomorrow," She kept telling herself as she took Robert's offered arm.
Chapter 13
The end of May came and with that was the end of the war. No more having to worry about Yankees and starvation. Cotton would go sky high next year and everything was perfect for the first time in years.And Ashley would be coming home! Scarlett hadn't thought of the possibility. She had believed he were dead. But Uncle Peter had brought a letter from Ashley telling of his safety.
Uncle Peter had begged Scarlett to come to Atlanta. But she flatly refused. She was now two months pregnant and already would be showing soon. And Ashley would be home! She may be ugly and fat by the time he was home but she didn't care. Ashley was the most important person and she would see to it that no one would keep them apart. Especially being sent to Atlanta and to Pittypat.
But it still would be months until Ashley stepped foot at Tara. Months! It seemed like an eternity to Scarlett. But she would bear it to only know Ashley was safe and coming home, home to her.
After the commotion of the joyous news faded away, everyone went to sit out on the porch and enjoy the sunset. Melanie eagerly knitted gloves for Ashley while Gerald and Ellen set next to each other as Gerald sung: "The Wearin' 'O The Green'
Robert quietly made his appearance as he rode slowly in from town, up the long road to the small stables. He walked up to the porch and plopped down next to Scarlett with a sigh. Gerald didn't give Scarlett time to question Robert's mood before he began to boast as he had all day.
"Lad did you see anyone we knew in town? The war is over lad don't look so put down we still beat those dammed Yankees!" Gerald declared forgetting Robert was a Yankee and they had won. Gerald's bass became louder as he began to sing again.
"Oh pa!" Scarlett cried with a shake of her head as she joined in with Gerald, Melanie and Careen.
"Miss Scarlett? The war is over and…" Robert sadly began as his eyes showed a deep sadness. No triumph was visible in his soft blue eyes that his people had won.
"How many times must I tell you Robert to call me Scarlett? Of course it is silly. I wouldn't be singing and making a fool of myself if it weren't. You should be happy! No more war. Now we won't have to worry over anything."
"Scarlett, I went to town today and just got a casualty list. I'm afraid…"
"Oh bother," Scarlett cut in. "Who needs one of those? Besides Ashley isn't on there and…"
Robert only handed her the list. "I'm sorry Scarlett but… I think it best that you read it."
"Fine. I'll read it and then I don't want to see it again," Scarlett crossly said as she snatched the list from Robert's hands.
She went through the names and finally in shock she recognized Rhett's name in bold heading: "Butler- Rhett." MISSING BELIEVED DEAD. Scarlett dropped the newspaper in shock as she let out a strangled cry.
Melanie and Ellen immediately ran to Scarlett. She didn't utter a word but only cried in Ellen's arms.
"What is it, Robert what happened?" Ellen quietly asked as she patted Scarlett's shaking back.
"I'm afraid Captain Butler is missing, Mrs. O'Hara. I went to town and got a causality list… he was on there."
"Oh my poor dear!" Melanie cried as she set kenneled next to Scarlett and gathered her in her arms. "Darling he is only missing. You mustn't think he's gone… He'll come back. I know he will."
Mammy stayed in the corner as she watched her favorite girl burst into tears. She hadn't made her presence known until Ellen called for her.
"Mammy go take Miss Scarlett to bed. She needs to rest."
"No!" Scarlett protested. "Rhett… he might need me. I have to find him. I have to! He wouldn't let anything happen to me! I'm leaving!"
"Oh please sit down darling!" Melanie cried. "You can't go! You're three months pregnant. You need to think of the baby."
"Oh bother the baby! I don't want it! I want Rhett!" Scarlett hysterically cried as she clung to Melanie and sobbed.
"Don't worry darling, he'll come. Now please go with Mammy. You need to rest."
"No!"
"Darling, please!" Melanie pleaded again as Mammy came waddling towards Scarlett.
"It's ah right mah lam' now let me take you upstairs' now an' you kin' rest," Mammy sweetly said as she put her arms around her favorite girl.
"Let me a… alone. I'm not going you can't make me!" Scarlett hysterically cried as she roughly pushed Mammy's arms away from her.
Without further warning Scarlett roughly pushed past Mammy and Ellen and ran into the house. Her eyes were clouded with tears as she stumbled over the stairs in attempt to reach the safety of her room.
But without realization of the world around her she stepped on the hem of her calico dress and began to lose her footing. With one last attempt Scarlett reached out for the banister but missed it and fell backwards. With one last cry she hit the bottom stair and felt unbearable pain hit her side as she went unconscious.
Chapter 14
Dr. Fontaine tiredly stepped out of the dimly lit room with a sigh. Scarlett was worse now then she had been a few hours ago. And now he wasn't sure if she would recover. She had lost the baby but he wasn't concerned about that. He was glad she didn't have to be tied down to that baby now. What a tragic thing to happen to a young vibrant woman, who had a whole life ahead of her. He had always liked Scarlett O'Hara despite her flaws. She had a lot of good in her.
The old doctor soundlessly made his way to the parlor.
He studied the whole family for a moment as they sat there quietly with tears in their eyes as the clung to each other. Only Robert and Ellen stood stiffly as he entered.
With a swish of skirts Ellen approached the doctor.
"Mrs. O'Hara may I speak to you alone?" The doctor asked as he strode toward the door and out to the hall, not bothering for an answer.
Ellen quietly shut the parlor door and approached the doctor. She stared at him quietly before he spoke.
"Mrs. O'Hara." He began. "Scarlett isn't holding up too well. It was too much for her to bear when she carried the child but now it is worst… You have lost three sons Mrs. O'Hara and I remember how it was for you. She lost the child and isn't strong enough. She barley realizes who I am. Her chances are very slim. If she doesn't make it… But it's in God's hands now."
"How much time does she have left?"
"If she doesn't change for the better I would say about… only a week."
"A week." Ellen whispered as she walked into her office in a daze and set down on to the settee. The doctor followed quietly behind her. "Is there anything that can be done, doctor?" She finally asked.
"A lot of rest and time, Mrs. O'Hara. Scarlett is very strong. I have no doubts whatsoever she'll make it."
"Scarlett is strong." She agreed. "But too strong. Ever since she was little she had pushed away those who, loved her… No child should have to go through this. She is only a child… Only twenty, doctor. She has almost lost everyone and I don't know if she'll ever be the same again after this…"
"Yes, Mrs. O'Hara no child should have to go through this." He answered knowingly. "But she is now and she needs you… She nearly went crazy with grief when you were sick. There wasn't a time when she didn't worry over you. Especially when the Yankees came."
"Yes doctor I know. I won't leave her side. And I'll… I'll call you if she gets… If something happens."
"Good. Now don't over exert yourself. You still haven't fully recovered yet and you too need rest. I am sure Melanie and Mammy would be more than willing to help." With one last nod the doctor left.
Melanie, Mammy and Ellen filled in the routine of nursing Scarlett. Mammy was older now and still had a household to watch over and Ellen had to watch over the family as she had always. With a heavy heart she gave her ill daughter over to the able and gentle hands of Melanie.
Even though Scarlett was still delirious it was still a comfort for her to know Melanie was close to her. When she felt too weak and felt as if she were burning in fire, Melanie was there to comfort her and to wipe her hot forehead with a cool damp rag.
By the end of June Scarlett was well enough to sit up. She was well enough now but all she had was a heavy heart. She had pondered many things. Were, was Rhett? Was he still alive? She wished she were dead as she finally accepted the truth. She knew Rhett was gone now and never was coming back… She didn't know now how she would live without him. Rhett had become her life. Her companion and countenance, he had always helped her when she was lost.
With a sigh Scarlett toyed with her ring. Rhett had given her the finest ring ever… Not even a Yankee woman had had a more exquisite ring. Not that she had seen anyway. She had never seen a ring so elegantly made.
Melanie had been good to her also… If it weren't for Melanie she would be dead. Melanie had been her true friend and she had over looked her. And treated her awful, envying her and wishing she were dead.
But Melanie had always been loyal to Ashley and her… When she had been pregnant, Melanie had stayed by her side. But all she knew now was she would never hurt Melanie, even if it meant staying away from Ashley. She loved her far too much to hurt her or disloyal her again.
Chapter 15
Scarlett was in deep depression. No matter how many times she walked the red earth she had come to love so much or how many times she did agonizing chores until she passed out from exhaustion, she couldn't find solace.
But her depression didn't show. Only her thin pale cheeks and lifeless eyes showed her deep pain. But there was nothing that could be done… not even Tara could mend her heavy heart and spirit. It was as if heavy chains had bound her that no one could break through.
Dr. Fontaine had said it was a miracle that she had survived but she didn't feel it was. How could it be a miracle when she had lost everything? Rhett and even the baby she hadn't wanted. She hadn't wanted the baby but still guilt weighed her. It took a toll on her. Her once rosy cheeks were pale, her eyes lifeless and her once soft hands worn, from agonizing work.
Now she didn't have the enthusiasm she once had for life. Once she had longed for the end of the war… when she could go to Atlanta and find Rhett. But now she wouldn't meet Rhett again. His sardonic grins, handsome careless gestures and his gallant acts were gone… with him.
But she worked too hard to think of Rhett. The only times she thought of him and missed him the most were the early hours of dawn when she knew Rhett would have been awake if he were still at Tara.
He had awakened the earliest in the household even before Mammy and Ellen. Sometimes he would sneak in and yank the blankets off of her and tickle her until she awoke with an evil glare. Rhett would only laugh at her disheveled hair and her snapping eyes. He had said she could scare the fleas from a rug with even one look at it with her heated, defiant stare.
She remembered the fifth time Rhett had come to awaken her and she had caught on to his early morning calls…
That morning she had awoken early, which was unusual for her. The clock had read 3 a.m. and Scarlett knew Rhett usually came sneaking into her room at 4.
She hid in her closet with the door slightly ajar so she could peak out. Awhile-later Scarlett heard Rhett's familiar footsteps and she froze with anticipation.
She was just about to jump out of her hiding place to catch Rhett in his act but she heard a soft knock on the closet door. She lightly cracked open the door and saw Rhett's swarthy face with his wide mischievous grin.
"Didn't think I would catch you, did you my dear?" He asked as he stepped aside to let her pass him.
But Scarlett only glared at him trying to look her angriest but as she looked up and saw Rhett's laughing dark eyes she couldn't contain her laughter.
With a shriek Scarlett lunged towards Rhett and threw her arms around his neck as she playfully attacked him, lifting her feet of the ground completely. Rhett lost his footing and stumbled back on to the bed. He hit it hard as Scarlett came down on top of him with an alarmed cry.
She didn't bother to move off of him. She only laughed as Rhett did until they couldn't any longer.
"Rhett," Scarlett finally whispered mischievously knowing they had already made enough noise to wake the dead. "Do you want someone to catch you sneaking into my room? How do you think that would look?"
Rhett only grinned. "Like we were having an affair. But don't worry Scarlett no one will come, everyone's asleep. Your secrets safe with me."
"You really are a conceited cad! The better for you to take advantage of me," Scarlett said playfully with a tired smile and a yawn.
"Maybe," He answered smiling as he watched Scarlett rub her eyes. Rhett's arms instinctively tightened around her but Scarlett didn't move. He didn't know if it was from her wariness or her desire but she snuggled closer to him. "But I wouldn't ever take advantage of you, Scarlett."
"And why not?" She challenged.
Rhett wavered a moment before answering. "Because I…"
Before Rhett could finish he stopped abruptly as he heard the floorboards creak. In shock they both looked up at the same time and saw Mammy standing stiffly in the doorway with her black face red in anger.
"Mammy…" Scarlett gasped in shock as Rhett and her jumped away from each other.
"You get away from mah' lam' you no good filthy Scalawag!" Mammy shouted as she advanced towards Rhett in order to forcefully push him out of the room.
"Mammy!" Scarlett shouted as she ran to Mammy in order to hold her away from Rhett. "Mammy please!" she pleaded.
"That's alright Mrs. Hamilton. I'll take my leave," Rhett declared helpfully. " I am sorry if I did anything to offend you. It wasn't my intention." With one light kiss to her hand he left.
Mammy!" Scarlett cried in rage as she finally turned roughly towards her. "How could you? Captain Butler has been nothing but kind to us!"
"Well he is jus' a poor white trashed' Yankee. He is the kin' that would take advantage of mah lil' lam' he ain't no good, Miss Scarlett. He ain't no good at all' he jus as low as a…"
"Advantage!" Scarlett haughtily interrupted. "He wasn't taking advantage of me! He has been nothing but kind to all of us. He doesn't make you do anything! Not pick cotton or… or watch over the household! How can you say that about him? I would strike you right now if… He deserves an apology Mammy. You'll go to him right now or else I am never speaking to you again!"
"Not win' he don't deserve it," Mammy indignantly replied standing her ground.
"Oh, yes you will! You were very rude to him and if I was a man and you were like that to me, I would strike you! But Captain Butler is kind and decent. He would never strike you. Nothing happened. I was only in the closet picking out a warm dress to go watch the sunset in and I thought I saw a… mouse. So… so I hate mice and I cried out and… Well and Rhe… Captain Butler happened to be walking by and thought I was in trouble so he rushed in." Scarlett stopped to peer up at Mammy and she if she were convinced. Mammy didn't seem to be, her eyes still held suspicion but Scarlett continued.
"Some how my hem became stuck… Well, Captain Butler helped me but I tripped over my shoe and stumbled backwards and fell on him… He stumbled onto the bed and I- I was just as shocked as he was and I… was about to get up but then you charge in here and nearly attack him!"
Mammy only grunted. "Thin' why were you facing him ef' you fell back 'ward?"
"Well I have to see haven't I? I didn't want to hurt Captain Butler by just jumping away from him!" Scarlett innocently answered as fake tears welled up in her eyes. "How could you? Mammy, he was my friend and you were so… so mean. Now he won't speak to me ever again! He… I would never do such a disgraceful thing…" Scarlett trailed off as she broke into more fake tears.
"Now mah' lam… Don't cry. There wipe ya tear," Mammy soothingly said as she comforted her. "I'll go apologize to Mistah' Rhett rite now."
Scarlett only sniffled. "I'm going to sleep Mammy. I am so weary. You won't tell mother, will you Mammy?"
"Now of course I won't," Mammy assured her as Scarlett slid into bed and snuggled under the blankets as Mammy tucked her in. "I wouldn't be a worrien' your ma. 'Specially when she need the rest, in her condition… Good nite honey," Mammy quietly said as the floorboards creaked noisily as she departed…
Scarlett smiled as she remembered that day. The sun had just come up now and she could here the mocking birds in the distance.
After that day Mammy had never uttered a word about the scene and was extremely kind to Rhett. She replaced "Captain Butler" to Mistah' Rhett and never spoke unkindly to him again. Mammy and Rhett had become good companions. Rhett was always there to give Mammy a good time and to challenge her. She was always lurking around to give him good times and sometimes hard times to pay him back for the times when he would annoy her. She still disapproved of his behavior but was still gracious to him and often praised him of his intelligence. She never called him Captain Butler or a no good filthy Scalawag again.
Scarlett wiped a stray tear from her face as she walked over to the window and rested her cheek against its cold surface. She was so tired but sleep was hard to find nowadays. She stared out the window again and noticed Robert's figure in the distance. Why was Robert awake now? He usually didn't awake until 7.
She quickly grabbed her wrapper and ran downstairs silently, still mindful of the others.
Once she was outside, Robert stared at her a moment but didn't acknowledge her as he petted his horse.
Finally Scarlett spoke, "Are you going to town Robert?"
"No, Scarlett. You see since the war is over and the baby is gone… well I needn't stay any longer. I've decided to go home," Robert finished as he placed his carpetbag on the side of his stallion.
"Home?" Scarlett exclaimed. "What do you mean, Robert? You can't leave! You are just as much a part of Tara as I am. This is your home! I don't want you to leave! What about Careen? I know you love her as she does you. You can't leave me like… like Rhett and everyone else! I'll die if you do! What is over there for you in Virginia, now?"
"Nothing…" He sadly answered. "But what about here? There isn't anything. I love your family as if they were my own. I love you Scarlett as my best friend and sister. I never had a sister and you are the best. Perhaps you are right about my feelings for Careen. But she doesn't love me not as Brent. Did you know they were engaged, Scarlett?"
Scarlett couldn't answer. Her baby sister and Brent, why hadn't pa told her? Suddenly Scarlett's mouth became dry and she couldn't speak.
Robert continued, "But that's not the reason, Scarlett. Careen is so much older than me and I don't care if she doesn't love me as long as she is safe. It's about you, Scarlett. I can't stand by and watch you kill yourself as my mother almost did before the soldiers got her. She could have survived if she were strong enough. I love you Scarlett and worry about you. You were a lot like my mother…" He trailed off as he thought of his lovely beautiful mother.
Scarlett felt tears fall down her cheeks as she walked over to Robert. "I'm sorry Robert. Here I am worrying about myself when you are upset. I was too blind with grief to notice. I miss Rhett… a- a lot. I… he was so good to me. But now he is gone. I'll do better for myself, I promise. But please don't leave!" She pleaded as she fell into Roberts's arms.
Robert quietly held Scarlett. He was glad that someone needed him. He felt all of his grief disappear as he held Scarlett. She would live and do better for herself not like his mother had. He would see to it…
September was almost there and with that came Beau's first Birthday. And Melanie wanted it to be perfect. Scarlett and Melanie cooked in the kitchen the day before September. Robert was to go into town in a few hours to pick up supplies for the party with the little money they had.
Scarlett hummed and danced around in the kitchen as she made bread. As Scarlett had promised Robert, she was doing better. Her cheeks had never regained their natural color or her waist; it's natural 18 inches. Her waist was far too small and her cheeks too thin and pale but she still worked everyday as everyone else did.
Melanie was a gift for her. She found that she could have fun being with her sister-in-law. Melanie always praised her work and made her feel worthwhile, which Scarlett hadn't felt for sometime.
Melanie came in with a lovely smile as she watched Scarlett dancing. "Scarlett, darling! What are you doing?"
"Great balls of fire! Oh, Melanie you nearly scared me to death!" Scarlett cried as she quite dancing. "I was only dancing. I miss balls and dancing all night until your feet hurt and large parties…" She trailed off thinking about it. Suddenly her earlier happiness diminished. Rhett was always the one that danced with her the best, but now he wouldn't.
Scarlett smiled, clamping her teeth together to keep from crying. "The bread is almost ready, Melly. I think I'll get some fresh air if you don't mind."
"Of course not dear. Will you call Robert for me though darling? I must speak to him for a moment."
"All right!" Scarlett called over her shoulder as she walked out.
A few moments later Robert came in. "Mrs. Wilkes you wanted to talk to me?"
"Yes Robert," Melanie said with a smile. "Will you please go to town for me today and pick up some more supplies at the store. I'm sorry to be such a bother and make you again but… I only need a few ribbons to put color in this house. Little blue bows, it would be just lovely."
"All right Mrs. Wilkes I'll go get the horse ready," Robert answered as he left the house.
