33
Saxon
‘Hey Elgee! Haven’t seen you here for a while,’ says Manny, cutting up some fresh vegetables. ‘How’ve yer been?’
‘Been busy at da market. Mumma Bear’s bossin’ me round, like normal.’
Manny grins. ‘Glad she was always on our side. She’s one tough lady.’
‘Sure is. Tough as wood outside, soft as warbles inside.’
‘What have you got there?’ Manny says, pointing to the bag.
‘What’s with all the questions?’ I interrupt, throwing my arm around Elgee’s neck and making a choke hold. ‘Come out the back and I’ll show you the crops.’
We leave Manny in the kitchen and walk toward the shed. Around the corner we nearly collide with Kerina and Lariel. They are both on alert, and Kerina looks between Elgee and Lariel.
‘It’s okay. Elgee can be trusted,’ I say. ‘This here is Lariel, a friend
