Page 94 of Touched By a Traitor
23 February 1838—Oberlin, Ohio
As Charlotte surveyedthe faces of her young classmates gathered in the parlor, a mix of determination and apprehension hung in the air. These women, aspiring lawyers, judges, and politicians were about to embark on their first protest against the barring of female students from law schools.
Safety concerns had initially dampened their enthusiasm, but interest surged when Andrew generously offered to hire guards to protect them from harassment. They had poured their hearts into the preparations, working tirelessly through evenings and weekends. Andrew had even joked that they might face deportation before they could finish unpacking their trunks.
Charlotte took a deep breath, her voice steady as she addressed the group. “Very well, ladies. We shall meet in front of the State Capitol building tomorrow morning at eight o’clock. Don’t forget the pamphlets, signs, food and drink, and a list of your emergency contacts. Bring pen and paper in case we need to write an urgent correspondence. Be prepared for a long day and an even longer fight. Are there any questions?”
The room fell silent, a palpable sense of anticipation and solidarity settling over the gathering. After they exchanged a few more words, the women rose to their feet, ready to depart. But all the heads turned when Andrew entered the parlor, his presence commanding attention. He dipped his head ingreeting, a charming smile on his lips that seemed to make the lovesick females swoon. Charlotte couldn’t fault them for their admiration. Andrew was, indeed, an impressive man.
He made his way through the room, his eyes seeking out Charlotte. Upon reaching her, he placed a gentle kiss on her cheek, a gesture that sent a flutter through her stomach. “How was the meeting?” he asked, his voice low and intimate.
“Fine, I think,” Charlotte replied, a hint of uncertainty in her tone. “We are as ready as we will ever be. Is everything prepared on your end?”
“I believe so. I will have two dozen men with me.”
Charlotte’s eyes widened in surprise. “You’ll be there as well?”
“Of course. Why do you sound so surprised?”
“I didn’t think you could join us. You are usually so busy with your new venture.”
Andrew’s gaze softened, a tenderness in his expression that made Charlotte’s breath catch.
“I’m never too busy for you, sweetheart.” His brow furrowed slightly as a thought occurred to him. “Did you serve the refreshments I made?”
Charlotte’s hands flew to her mouth. “Oh no… I completely forgot.”
“Charlotte… you’ll starve to death before you even begin the protest.”
“I’m sorry. You went through all that trouble of making them. I should have eaten while they were hot.”
Andrew waved off her apology, his smile reassuring. “No matter. They can be heated. I’ll pack them in case some of your guests wish to take them home.”
Andrew busied himself with packing the mini meat pies he had prepared into small paper bags. These meetings served a vital political purpose, but Andrew’s thoughtful gesture ofproviding food for the students who couldn’t afford proper meals touched her deeply. As she watched him, her heart swelled with love and appreciation for the man he was.
Charlotte resided alone, which proved to be a blessing, as every room in her house had been transformed into either a study or a war office, where she meticulously planned events and stockpiled signs. Andrew, on the other hand, had shared his home with three women, but now only Lily remained under his roof.
Together, Charlotte and Andrew had been teaching the young woman secretarial skills, hoping to help her find work in the field. As it turned out, Lily possessed a natural talent for the job, and Andrew wasted no time in hiring her to work at his newly purchased textile factory.
After the last of the guests had departed, Charlotte busied herself with tidying up, fluffing cushions and gathering her notes. Lost in thought, she barely registered Andrew’s presence as he gently took her hands in his.
“Charlotte,” he said softly, his voice laden with solemnity.
The grave tone of his voice snapped her to attention. “What is it?” she asked, her brows furrowing with concern.
“We apprehended Lily’s husband.”
“You did?” Charlotte’s eyes widened, and she threw her arms around Andrew, hugging him with unbridled glee. She bounced on her feet, her heart swelling with relief. Andrew’s arms encircled her waist, pulling her close, nuzzling his nose in her hair. “I’m so glad. The poor thing must be so relieved. When did this happen?”
Releasing her hold on his neck, Charlotte stepped back, her hands already reaching for the tea trays as she waited for his answer.
“This morning.”
She looked up at him. “That is wonderful, Andrew. You’ve accomplished what the sheriff couldn’t. I’m so proud of you.”
“I was desperate. I spared no expense to capture that blackguard.”
“Yes. Lily’s safety has been weighing heavily upon you.”
