I enter, finding Meg seated with her.
When Elena sees me, her expression falls. “Asha…”
I take a seat so that we form a triangle. “He’s back.”
“I’ve heard.”
“I can’t stay there! Not with him!” My tone comes out frantic, much like a toddler’s.
“I know he can be a jerk, but you can’t leave his place,” Elena insists. “The men will see it as a sign of weakness. You know this.”
Fighting back tears, I blurt, “No one thinks I’m strong, Elena.”
“The weaves you are making are important to our tribe, and that is where your strength lies,” she replies, her face sympathetic. “Never let anyone tell you otherwise.”
I look at Meg, hoping she sees how desperate my situation is.
Meg’s shoulders slump. “I’m sorry, but I have to agree with Elena. Your talents are needed and, unfortunately, you were directed to work out of Ramsey’s home.”
“I can’t believe Dogan thought that was a good idea,” Elena mumbles.
“Maybe we can build another place for her to work?” Meg suggests.
Elena nods. “In the future, another season, mayhap, but there are other priorities that must come first.”
There’s no point in fighting. Fairness is in short supply on this island, and the very real truth is that I’m lucky to be alive.
A knock sounds on Elena’s tent flap.
“Come in!”
Amber walks in looking like she’s slept in dirt.
With her first step inside, her back is straight, her face proud, but as soon as the flap closes behind her, a bleak expression washes over her face.
Elena gets up and offers Amber a hug, but it’s rejected, and Amber moves away.
“It had been so long, I wasn’t sure if something had happened to you,” Elena says gently.
“Oh, a lot has happened to me,” she scoffs, her voice tight. “None of it good.”
“I’m glad Ramsey was able to bring you back unharmed.”
“I’m sure you’re just thrilled.” Amber rolls her eyes.
“Believe it or not, I am,” Elena says. “I’ve never wished you harm. Well…that’s a lie, but I regret all the times I have.”
I’ve never seen someone handle their adversary with such grace, and it makes me proud that she is our chieftain.
The corner of Amber’s lips tug into a slight smile.
Elena offers her water. “Did Ramsey treat you well while you were out in the forest?”
Amber takes a drink, wiping her mouth when she’s done. “Ramsey is a ripe bastard.”
Feeling validated, I gesture emphatically to the soiled maiden. “See! I’m not the only one who thinks so.”
“He’s an unavoidable bastard,” Elena warns, “and we should strive not to provoke him.”
