Chapter Seventeen

                                    

                                          
The following morning was not quite so eventful. She served him breakfast in his rooms and took pleasure for the first time in doing so. He was agreeable and made light conversation. They made the way to the office building with very little dialogue, stealing brief glances at each other. Each person was afraid to bring up the subject of the previous day's debacle.
                          
Thomas who was present at the office that morning noticed something was had changed between them. He likened it to the quiet before a storm. Ayo was actually trying to be pleasant and was captivated by Elijah's every word. Elijah was in no better condition; he strived at every move to impress her. It was enough to make one wonder the extent of the relationship between these two. It was reaching dangerous new heights. They were growing closer, that was evident with each new day that passed. Something had to be done.
                          
That evening Thomas paid a visit to the home of Jacqueline Morgan. A butler that showed him in must have equaled the age of dirt. She and her opulent mother were in a crochet session. He bowed gallantly to each lady.
                          
"Good evening ladies, please forgive the intrusion on your evening. I have but a few words for Miss Morgan." Thomas watched as the two women's' eyes met. Jacqueline nodded and her mother left the room.
                          
She then invited Thomas to the empty seat next to her. She watched and all the while thinking to herself that he is just as worthy and wealthy as Elijah. He would make a fine match for any woman. Yet, sadly, he remains unattached. He was tall, of dark hair, olive skin and brilliant blue eyes. He was indeed very handsome, but not nearly strong enough for a woman of her resolve. That is why she wanted Elijah.
                          

                            

                                
                            
                              
                                  
                              
                              
                                
                                  
                                  
                                
                              
                             
                            
                            
                          
                          
                          
"I have come to speak with you on the matter of your fiancée; you may have some prior and post-marital issues afoot," Thomas said sternly.
                          
Jacqueline laughed and brought her petite hand to rest on her cheek. "What would we need to worry about dear Thomas?"
                          
"It seems, My Lady, that your fiancée is quite taken with another. It will not affect the status of your marriage but it may affect the level of commitment between you."
                          
A more serious look came to her pretty face. Her blue eyes pierced through Thomas. "What are you speaking of? Out with it then!" She said abruptly, Thomas was startled at her terseness.
                          
"The servant girl, the black one with the blue-green eyes has quite captured Elijah's fascination. He spends every waking hour with her. His emotions, his intentions towards her are becoming very clear. Take care Jacqueline; I fear you may not be the lady of your own home. She has a lot of influence over him now, it is crucial that you gain control of his heart."
                          
Jacqueline thought to herself that if Thomas was correct evasive action must be taken immediately to squash whatever delusions Elijah has of this nigger girl.
                          
"I will not let some monkey overthrow me. I will do what needs to be done. I thank you kindly, Thomas, you are his true friend." Jacqueline shook his hand. "I must go. Plans must be made."
                          
Long after he left the Morgan house, Thomas question himself and wondered had he done the right thing by going to Jacqueline and not to Elijah first? No, he convinced himself that he had done what was right for everyone involved including himself.