Page 30 of Mika's Heart

Atka

Mika has been quiet most of the trip out to the village.

I know that she’s nervous to meet my people but I refuse to let her know that I too am a little nervous.

My father reacted badly when Eagle refused to be pushed into taking a wife chosen for him.

Several months ago, I didn’t completely understand why he refused but knowing what I do now, I know that I could never attach myself to a woman that I didn’t pick myself.

If that is what my family has also been planning for me, I’m hoping that introducing them to Mika will lay to rest those thoughts.

I plan to marry someone that I choose myself. Someone that I love and that loves me as well.

Cutting my eyes over at Mika, I’m filled with awe at her beauty just as much as the first time I ever laid eyes on her.

“We’re coming up on the airstrip.” The pilot says through the headphones.

Mika leans closer to the window, looking out.

Far below I can already make out several people waiting not too far away from the strip with four wheelers.

“That’s probably my parents.” I say through the mic, pointing out the window to the people below.

Mika smiles back but doesn’t say anything so I grab her hand as the plane descends towards the runway.