by Martin Maenza
Morning came after the tumultuous night. The stories of last night’s events were buzzing about the reservation like a swarm of hornets. Tom Jungbaer sadly looked at the remains of the casino, shaking his head.
“It’ll be all right, old friend,” Roy Harper said as he put his arm about Tom’s shoulders. “I’m sure they’ll rebuild it if they want.”
Tom nodded. “Yes, I suppose you’re right,” he said, picking up his bag and handing it to his friend. “I canceled my flight to Arizona so I can drive back with you.”
“Good,” Roy said with a yawn. “I’m a bit tired myself, so it’ll be good to have someone share the wheel.” He headed over to the rental car, opened the trunk, and placed Tom’s bag next to his own.
“Mr. Jungbaer,” called Wenonah Littlebird as she approached. “Despite our differences, I wanted to say goodbye before my group and I left.”
“Happy to see this?” Tom asked her.
She shook her head. “No, I am not,” Wenonah said. “Whether or not I agree with the building of casinos, seeing things that many worked hard on destroyed is never a joyful thing.”
“At least we agree on something,” Tom replied.
Roy joined them. “Morning, Miss Littlebird,” he said with a knowing smile.
“Mr. Harper,” she said with a slight nod.
“It was a pleasure to meet you,” Roy said, extending his hand. “Perhaps our paths will cross again some time.” His smile got a bit wider, and he gave her a quick wink.
Wenonah smiled knowingly too as she shook his hand. “I have a feeling that they just might, Mr. Harper. They just might.”
The End