Chapter Twenty-two
Tail GuardThe children enjoyed the bush foraging. Leslie took time to point out the many plants available for rongoā medicine. Edin proved a fast study, peering at the heart-shaped kawakawa leaves and pointing out many more bushes for picking. She absorbed the rules for harvesting with respect, her delicate fingers pinching off grandparent leaves and sparing the mamas and babies for the next season. Mac carried the basket, his angelic gaze flicking from Leslie to Edin and back again. A floppy hat covered his red curls and protected his fair skin from the ruthless sun, which sparked shafts of yellow through the canopy. He epitomised peace and contentment within his elfin frame, and Hana yearned for even just a taste of his relaxed state.
“I need some manuka,” Leslie sai
