Another flame of color mounted to Jinnie’s tousled hair. With hanging head, she pushed Milly Ann from her lap and walked to the cobbler’s side.
“What did Maudlin say to you?” he demanded.
“He said he’d—he’d crack my twigs for me if—if I’d kiss him, and he pinched me when I wouldn’t.”
Anger and deep resentment displayed themselves on Lafe’s pale face.
“Jinnie, lass,” he breathed. “I c’n trust you, child. Can’t I trust you? You wouldn’t––”
Jinnie drew away from Lafe’s embrace.
“I guess I’d rather be killed’n have Maudlin kiss me,” she cried passionately.
Just then Peg came to the door.
“Run to the butcher’s for a bit of chopped steak, Jinnie,” she ordered, “an’ make your head save your heels by bringin’ in some bread.”
Jinnie jumped up quickly.