The squat man peers at him, his mouth puckering. Every breath creates puffs of hot air, like smoke rising from his mouth and nostrils. “Who is she to you? Is she family? Your lov—”
“She’s family,” Adom answers resolutely.
In spite of the chill, my cheeks are burning.
Odeba bobs his head. “Very well then. You know the rules.” He turns to me and holds up a hand, palm facing me. “Swear the oath.”
“The…oath?” I glance at Adom in confusion.
He nods. “Touch your palm with his and repeat his words.”
I’ve never made an oath before. It sounds serious, like if I say the words I’ll be bound to Odeba. Even though it gives me feelings of unease, I don’t think Adom would bring me all this way to meet the changelings if there were any danger.
I dismount and step knee deep into a snow mound. Crunch
