You smile easily, unembarrassed, trying to ease the moment for her.
"One day I'd like to meet them, if I haven't already." You give her hand an affectionate squeeze, then stand up. "Is there anything left to eat? I know it must seem like all I do is sleep, but I've worked up quite an appetite."
“Of course.” Roisin quickly stands. “I'm sure there's something left. I'll get you some.”
Her hand slides away from your grip, as she quickly walks toward a vardo where smoke still rises from the chimney. At first you move to follow, but Micaja's heavy hand lands on your shoulder.
“She wasn't telling the whole truth.” Micaja sits, the weight of his hand making it easier for you to do the same. “You are friends. She is promised. But, that doesn't mean there isn't something more.”
Your look betrays some element of curiosity. He gives you a broad grin, before his face takes on a more somber look.
“The fact is, Nan wasn't just upset because a vardo was taken. She was upset because of who took the vardo. Roisin's her granddaughter, promised to another clan. To have her run off with a Half Breed and a Tamei.... Roisin has feelings for you, and you have them for her. But Roisin is a Formori through and through. She believes the ancient stories and practices the modern rituals. She'll marry the Ghilan, even if it isn't what she wants.” He breaths in deeply, letting out an exhausted sigh. “Things were different when your mother was around.”
- If you ask what it was like when your mother was alive, go to 47
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"What was it like then?" I ask, studying Micaja's face. "And how long has it been since she passed?"
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