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He reached down. Winona’s arms were wrapped tightly around his knees, and she pleaded with him, “I want mother, White Eagle, I want mother.” He scooped her up, and she snuggled in his arms, pressing her little face against his shoulder. Her big brother was now her father. He carried her to the other children crouching near the cooking pits. The older children had washed the utensils and were putting them away. It was early evening, and stars were beginning to twinkle. The cool rain misted like sparkling crystal droplets in everyone’s hair. It dripped from Winona’s cheeks, mixing with her teardrops. White Eagle wiped her sad face with loving hands. |