Quickly, she ran up to Gray Falcon who, riding atop his Appaloosa, was leading the procession. Falling into step with his pony, she touched his leg.
As though he were aware of her feeling of joy, he glanced down at her and smiled. He then said, "It went well. Your mother was expecting us and had already saddled the two horses we needed for her and her husband. She even provided food for our escape."
"I can imagine she would have done so. It was she, after all, who helped my sister escape the fort five years ago when my father thought to marry my sister to a man she didn't love."
Gray Falcon laughed. "Áa,I can easily envision it. She reminds me of you."
Amelia chuckled. "I am her daughter, after all. We have the lodge for our mother and father set up with many comforts, and it is ready for them. Some of our own blankets and other possessions, I fear, have gone into their lodge."
"You are generous," observed Gray Falcon. "I am glad you gave them what we have."
"Yes. My sister, your sister and even Sharon helped, also. We also lit a fire within the tiny lodge to aid their comfort. Your sister helped us start the fire without the use of anything but wood and friction."
"I am glad," returned Gray Falcon as he bent at the waist to extend a hand down to her, and, when she took hold of it, he easily lifted her up before him onto his pony. He whispered, "My love for you is great."
"As is mine for you, my husband. I am so happy. I am so very, very happy."
