Don Eduardo was known for his cruelty to slaves who dared to even look at a white woman. Maria was right. Don Eduardo Mendoza was famous throughout Havana for the exemplary punishments he inflicted on his slaves.
Three years earlier, he had ordered a slave accused of stealing food to be flogged to death. Stories of cruelty had spread throughout the island’s plantations. “There must be a way,” Isabella pleaded. “You could tell the father is a young Spaniard, someone who has left the island.” And
“When the baby is born?” Maria asked harshly. Métis children are recognizable from day one. African blood cannot be hidden. Isabella hadn’t thought of that. In her desperation, she had imagined that somehow she could keep the secret forever.
But Mary was right. A mixed-race baby would be immediate proof of their sin. Meanwhile, Thomas was experiencing his own agony. During the day he worked in the gardens, but his mind was constantly fixed on Isabella and the baby growing inside her. He had begun saving all
