Path of Freedom Read Online Free PDF Page A

me for some childhood taunts.” Bruce rubbed the back of his neck, unsure when the uncomfortable ache had begun. “I don't really think she ever will.”
    “It may not be that she hasn't forgiven thee as much as she doesn't feel she can trust thee,” John said.
    “Which is why we shouldn't go on this mission together,” Bruce pointed out. “Trust is critical on a dangerous mission like this. And besides, I'm not convinced she's mature enough. Her behavior is too erratic—at least where I'm concerned.”
    John rubbed his chin as silence lengthened between them. After a few moments, he gave Bruce a sideways glance. “I want the honest truth. Does thee believe Flora could do this if someone else besides thee was to escort them?”
    The thought of another man escorting them, spending each day in Flora's company in such close proximity, soured his gut. He rubbed his irritated stomach and turned his head to cough, his throat suddenly dry. Instead of answering, he asked, “Even though I'm the one who's experienced, thee would replace me instead of the Saferights?”
    “The mission is tough on anyone in excellent health, but especially burdensome on a pregnant woman. I'm told she may not last until the end of the trip before she goes into labor. Flora has to be there. I don't know any other midwife young and healthy enough to make the grueling trip.”
    “I see.” Bruce stood and leaned over the rail.
    “Don't get me wrong, Bruce,” John said. “Thee is my first choice as a guide, but Flora is my first choice as a midwife. I prayed about this, and I believe I've chosen the right people.”
    “She'll fight me every step of the way. If I decide something, she'll go against me just to spite me.” Bruce dropped his head back and gazed up at the stars. “As much as I hate to admit it, Flora would probably do fine with anyone else guiding them.” He glanced down at John's dark head. “Who does thee have in mind?”
    “Thee—and that's the problem. Each time I prayed over the matter, thy face is the only one that kept coming to mind.” John shook his head and linked his fingers around his bent knee. “That's why I'm so baffled by thy reaction—and hers.”
    “Believe me, everything concerning Flora Saferight is baffling.” Bruce allowed sarcasm to creep into his tone. “I've done everything I know to do. I've apologized—although I'm not sure of all the misdeeds I've committed to apologize for. The woman can hold a grudge and has a memory that will forever haunt a man.”
    “Has thee tried talking to her?” John asked. “Just to get everything out in the open and to air the peace.”
    Bruce chuckled, thinking how quickly and smoothly she could twist his words to justify her behavior. He took a couple of steps closer to John and squatted down on his haunches.
    “Flora won't stay in my company long enough for a decent conversation, and if she did, I'd manage to offend her before we'd get that far.” Bruce rubbed his face, his eyes suddenly heavy and tired. “Yet I can't think of another soul I'd trust to do the job.”
    “What about Bob Blankenship? He's trustworthy.” John scratched the side of his head.
    “Yes, but temperamental.” Bruce shook his head. “The first time Flora flared up at him, he might lose patience.”
    “There's George McGee—he's a good fellow,” John suggested.
    “Last year I saw him staggering out of a tavern with a wench hanging on his arm. He doesn't do it often, but I'm afraid the girls wouldn't be safe with him.” Bruce folded his arms and paced across the porch. His boot heels clicked against the wood.
    “Matthew Hunt,” John said. “He's trustworthy, and we'd never find him in a tavern. I feel confident he believes in our cause.”
    “Yes, but he's too passive, and any kind of danger could befall them.” Bruce continued to pace as he stroked his chin. No one suitable came to mind.
    “Everyone else is getting on in years, Bruce.” John rose with a sigh. “I