Chapter 10My relationship with Winter Bird changed. No one else likely noticed, although it was apparent to me. He remained my friend, but I understood he was hurt because I encouraged him to have congress with Ethan. Now that it was too late, I realized he had denied himself all these years to patiently wait for me. When Matthew died, he waited again, but now with the expectation that when I conquered my grief, we would be together. With difficulty, I watched his devotion slip away.
I rode out to the range one day and told him in quiet desperation that I was ready. Sadness filled his eyes. His handsome features pulled a frown.
“Nay, John,” he said in English. “Your words do not come from love. They come from need. I will fill your need, if you wish, but it will hurt me to do so. I seek
