I opened my mouth to speak, incredulous, but no words came out. My hand, guided by Mama's, lay over the fullness and roundness of her breast. I felt the faint bump of her nipple under my fingers, shrouded by the fabric of her dress and an unseen brassiere.

"Jubal, you must step into the shoes of your father, and do his duty for him. I'm asking you. Please, Jubal. Your mother deserves this. She needs it."

"But Papa... "

"Papa will not be home for another six hours. He told me that he will have dinner with his friends after hunting, and he won't be home until late."

I didn't...