Three Converts

Part 50

Griffin, Rocco, Misty, and I settled into a rhythm. We worked during the days (nights for Rocco), and had "family" dinners when we could. Money was still tight, but Misty and Rocco were both able to bring home leftovers from their places of employment, so all our money could go toward preparations for incoming Robes. Gordo showed up nearly daily. We didn't ask what he did during the day, but he often came back with prime wood for Griff, and even a couple tools. Neither of them visited their dad, though we did get word he was released from medical care and was being held at the jailhouse.

Frida seemed to be thriving. I wanted to give her some space, but I visited the canoe livery frequently. She looked healthier and happier in her new life, and even had some clothes that fit now. Occasionally I visited Annie and Gibby's house. They had told their neighbors they were off to satisfy their wanderlust and had some "youngsters" that would check on the house. I watered her flowers, dusted her shelves, pulled some weeds. It was the least I could do.

Of course, I worried constantly about my family. Augustus' threat didn't feel empty, but I hoped it was. Annie vowed to keep an eye on them, so I had to believe everything was okay so far.

I loved going into town, but had to be careful. If a Robe saw me they would recognize me for sure and I was certain the council asked to be informed if I was spotted. One day I saw a Robe I recognized talking with a young girl. She was nodding and asking questions. It was a rare sight. I could tell she was actually listening and considering what the Robe was saying. Eventually the Robe left her. I watched the girl sit on a bench and stare off into the mountains toward the commune. Her curls reminded me of Soph. I made sure the coast was clear and walked over.

"Hi there." The bench squeaked when I sat down.

"Um, hi?" She looked skeptical to be approached by two strangers in a manner of minutes.

"Isn't it lovely today?" It really was. There was a light breeze, the sun was casting shadows, illuminating all the prettiest things. Birds chirped, flowers bloomed, kids yelled and laughed in the park behind us.

"I guess?"

I knew exactly why the Robe had targeted this girl. She ended every sentence with a question mark. She was completely unsure of herself. I didn't want to exploit that. Even more, I didn't want her to join the commune.

"Did that Robe want you to move to the commune? Sorry to be nosy! I just saw you talking with her."

"Oh. Yeah. It seems so peaceful up there?"

I knew full well the Robe would be back to follow up with her. I couldn't incriminate myself and our whole operation by confessing I used to live up there.

"Maybe. I'd miss the lake, though. And donuts." I smiled, but only got a shrug in return.

"I think I could live without the lake and donuts?"

I stared at the girl. Her curls were pulled into a high ponytail, the stray hairs tamed by a black headband. She wore a black skirt and bright pink top. Her black boots were stylish, if completely impractical for the season. I channeled my inner Misty. "And the robes. I would not want to wear that robe every single day for the rest of my life."

That got her attention. "Do you think they wear them all the time? Or just when they're in town?"

"Oh, I'm positive they wear them all the time. I'm sure of it." I prayed she wouldn't ask how I was so sure, and she didn't.

"Yeah..." she said slowly. "That's a good point..."

I didn't want to push my luck any further."Well, I'm going to do something about my boring, plain nails." I wiggled myfingers. "Nailpolish! That's another thing I'd miss up there!" Okay, I waspushing my luck a little further. But when I turned to walk away, I saw herstretching her fingers out, admiring her own bright nails.