He led her out of the auction square, through the streets of Vassouras, and toward the countryside where he lived. He didn’t speak much, but when he did, his voice was kind.
« You don’t have to be afraid of me, » he said. « I promise you that. »
Benedita was confused. She’d been beaten, mistreated, and ignored her entire life. She didn’t know how to respond to kindness.
When they arrived at Francisco’s small farm, he showed her a small room attached to his house.
« This is where you’ll sleep, » he said. « It’s not much, but it’s yours. I won’t come in without your permission. I won’t treat you like property. »
She stared at him.
« You bought me, » she said. « You paid seven cents for me. I’m yours. »
« You’re free, » he said.
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