Chapter 11As we lingered at the table the next morning, Winter Bird sent Ethan to finish gathering cattle. I saw pain hiding in Bird’s features when we were alone.
“Dancing Fox and I have reached an agreement. I will return with him to Pine Ridge. To Rivers Bend, in fact, where we will establish our own fire. I will be his win-tay wife, his second wife. Sweet Water is a good woman who will welcome me into her tipi.”
I studied the wood grain on the table. “I wish I had not hurt you so deeply. I am ready now.” I gave a bitter laugh. “When it is too late, I am finally ready.” I glanced at his left ear lobe. “It is too late, isn’t it?”
He nodded. “Aye. I have given my commitment. My word. I will go with Dancing Fox. But I hope to hold onto your friendship.”
“You will always have my friends
