The Roar of the Falls: My Journey with Kaya

I look deeply into Kaya’s eyes and tell her I want to trade my bracelet with her. It’s the most special piece of jewelry I have. I untie it from my wrist, the cord slipping loose easily, and Kaya studies it intently, turning it over slowly in her fingers. I have a sense of being set adrift, cut away from the chance to return to my own time. Another girl comes up to us, her dark eyes curious, and Kaya and the girl throw words a little bit. Kaya says the girl asked her where she got the bracelet, and Kaya told her that her trading partner wove it. They agree it’s beautiful.

The girl kneels down and picks up a chubby little puppy, who immediately squirms with delight in her arms. She points at the bracelet and holds out the pup, her face hopeful. The girl wants to trade the puppy for the bracelet!

The bottom drops out of my stomach, and my pulse quickens. I’ve seen how much Kaya loves dogs. Will she trade my bracelet away?