Chapter 9Arrow and I arrived back at camp in time for the festivities. The sun set on the plateau. My uncles were breaking up the roasted meat and dropping juicy chunks on lotus leaves that lined a flat rock by the fire. Tubers steamed in buffalo skulls next to baskets filled with greens and fruits.
Word had gotten out. Maybe Kiki told them. Everyone loved an engagement.
By its neck, Arrow carried the gift he’d found, a shoebill stork almost as tall as him. All eyes fell on Arrow and the dead bird, except my mother focused on me. Her shell bracelets made a tinkling sound as she came over, until one of my aunts pulled her aside for help with the flower arrangements.
I wasn’t hungry and went to my mat. Ignoring everyone, I watched the sunset. Arrow came and sat by me. He didn’t say anythi
