Desiree's Baby was written by Kate Chopin. Madame Valamonde drove over to see her newborn grandson one fine afternoon. As she drove along she began to reminisce about the day her precious baby girl was discovered in the shadows of a stone pillar. Rumor was a group of Texans had abandoned her after she had toddled away from the group. The Madame was convinced that Desiree had been sent to her by certain graces to be the child she had longed for. Eighteen years later, a young man had rode past those same pillars and been struck by love at first sight. Armand Aubigny was swept away by passion, entranced by her beauty, sincerity, and her affectionate manner. The girl had become a perfect picture of a Valmonde. Monsieur Valmonde grew conspicuous of the girl's heredity, and questioned her origin. Armande was so deeply in love that her origin did not matter to him, and they were soon married.
Madame Valamonde had arrived at the sad, lonely residence of Desiree and her husband. The house had been let go in every since the passing of Armand's father. The Negroes of the plantation were not dedicated to the strict rule of Armand. They were used to the old master's easy going and indulgent lifetime. It had been four weeks since she had last saw Desiree and the baby. Desiree was laid upon the couch in soft white muslins and laces. The baby was asleep in her arms. Madame Valmonde was astonished at the sight of the baby. Desiree went about normal conversation about the way the baby had grown. She was delightfully happy, and going on how Armand had changed his nature explaining that he hadn't punished the slaves since the birth of their son. She proclaimed she was so happy that it had scared her.
When the baby was three months old, Desiree had awoke knowing something was wrong. Her husband's manner had abruptly changed. He no longer acknowledged her or their son. He spent many hours away from home. One steamy afternoon, Desiree was staring intently at her child and then glanced at the quadroon boy and let out a scream.