Chapter 8
Taj watched Jake come for his sister. There was a look in the boy’s eyes that had not been there before, one that Taj recognised all too well. He wasn’t surprised to see it there, but it did sadden him.
‘Come on, Abbey,’ said Jake. ‘We’re going home.’
‘But there are still more chickens.’
‘Mum says you have to come, right now.’
Abbey set her jaw into a stubborn line, and for a moment looked ready to argue. Then she handed the hen on her lap over to Taj. ‘Goodbye.’
‘Goodbye, Abbey.’
The child blew him a kiss and Jake scowled. ‘Take care of the chickens for me.’
‘I will, little one.’ The hen in his arms clucked softly. Taj stroked her ruffled red feathers and gently put her down as the children ran off. Their mother, Kim, was staring in his direction, distracting him, making
