“Why run off with this man?” Alicia was stern, trying to shield Nina from Clara’s wrath. After two days and nights, Nina still wore her flour sack apron.
“Shame on you for deceiving us and running away. Do you recognize what he has done?” Clara was angry and suspicious. She turned on Alicia. “You knew she was here. You always protect her.”
“We—” Nina held up her hands in surrender.
“Speak up!” Alicia clutched the old bucket and towel and wondered why Clara had asked for these things.
“Ladies, if you will allow me.” It was only the second time Alicia heard the trapper speak. He seemed to be done with his hiding, and unafraid. He wore the leather leggings and rabbit-fur cap Alicia had seen him wearing in the village. His voice was serious and precise, as if he were addressing a public meeting.
“I want to know what you are doing on our land. Who informed you about this cave?” It was hard to tell what made Clara so distraught. Was it the fact that Nina ran away? Or was she upset to have a bold stranger on their land? Clara stood in front of the cave and pushed the others back.
When Nina’s voice came to her, her expression changed from timid to daring. She showed no shame or surprise at being found.
“This trapper, he knows all herbs, good like Grandma Masagawa.” Nina looked from the trapper to Clara.
“I am a sergeant and surveyor, Miss. You have this wrong.” When the trapper spoke, Alicia realized he was not the ignorant ruffian she’d assumed.
“Don’t say another word. You are trespassing on our family property.” Clara strode toward him, swishing her arms as if she was shooing chickens. “Get away from here.”
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