Chapter 29

The girl gripped Miah’s hand in hers. “He’s really gone? Is this man telling the truth? Where will I go? How will I live?” She was panic-stricken. She knew how to retreat from life and pain and was a brutal tyrant. She had no idea how to live in this world. She didn’t even know it was possible.

Miah stroked Shaina’s hair gently. “There’s no need to worry about anything. I have friends who will help us. You will be well taken care of, I promise you. For now, all you have to do is lie here in this room and get well. I’ll bring you some clothes and books, maybe a stuffed animal or two. We’ll get you some things to make your stay a little less boring. I will come back tomorrow evening and visit with you. We can talk more about what you would like to do with your life and where we’ll go from here.”

Shaina tightened her grip on Miah. “Is he really dead?”

“Alexander would not tell an untruth.” Miah said it very softly but with great conviction. “You need sleep now, child. I will be here tomo