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"That sucks" Joshua said plainly

David laughed "He’s kidding It wasn’t that bad and it wasn’t like that with the nobility at all The nobility cared deeply for the lower people They were the backbone of the society after all They would want to keep the workers happy so they would produce"

Madison saw Ephraim’s jaw clench "You really believe that, don’t you?"

"Yes, I’ve studied it for years"

Ephraim released her hand and sat back "You’re the expert" He picked up his fork and continued to eat After a minute everyone else returned their attention to their plates She could tell from their expressions that they trusted and believed Ephraim

She looked down at her hand It felt very warm She could still feel the hot path where his thuled from his touch What was it about this man?

David could hold her hand and all she felt was discomfort She didn’t like his touch, but he was polite and attentive If she was honest she’d adant She knew from some of her own research that Ephraim was correct The justice system back then was inhu back at Ephraiain Joshua leaned in "Are you okay?"

Ephraim forced a smile "I’m okay"

"I believe you, you know," Joshua said in a loud whisper

"Thanks Eat your vegetables I heard your Grand in The boy loved cake Ephraim ate slowly and kept his eyes down Madison noticed Grand hi on taking your sister to Boston next weekend Thean exhibition on nineteenth century art if you want to come It depicts what life was really like back then if you want to know"

"No, no thank you I was hoping to go fishing again with Ephrai up fro his eyes on his plate as he pushed his food around "You’re alelco as your Grandmother and Madison say it’s okay"

"Why wouldn’t he ask hisconfused

Madison opened her mouth to answer, she really needed to tell hi room opened

"I’m so sorry I’m late One of the other bartenders called in sick and…David? What are you doing here? Crystal is looking everywhere for you!"

"Who’s Crystal?" Joshua asked

David opened his mouth and then shut it All eyes moved between David and Candy

"Crystal is David’s girlfriend of course She works with me at the, erclub"

All eyes fixed on David Candy walked around the table, oblivious to the change in the rooet, she told ht to ask you to pick up more diapers for the baby"

Chapter 6

Ephraim dropped his fork onto his plate He leaned back in his seat, keeping his eyes on David David fidgeted in his seat He eating profusely and looking around nervously

"Everyone, leave now," Ephraim said in a cold level voice

David stood up

"Not you Sit down"

"What’s going on?" Candy asked, sounding confused

"Why don’t you stay, Candy?" Ephraientle, but everyone kneasn’t a request It was an order