"Dance with me," he said, reserved, but with warmth in his voice and his eyes.
One time around the circle validated Megan's suspicions about her two left feet. Being carried with the wind would forever remain a dream. "Why can't I completely let go and let the music carry me?" she asked, stepping from the circle.
Colby grabbed her arm. "It is customary to give gifts with an Honor Song," he said. "You helped bring me to this place and reclaim my family and heritage. I give you this gift as a thank you."
The box shook in her hands. Colby lifted the lid, exposing a blue silk scarf. "Thank you," she said, her eyes moist with tears.
"You're welcome." His eyes saw into the depth of her soul, making her feel alive, important and special. Did this mean they were meant to be together?
Gray Cloud joined them. "My dear sweet Megan," he said taking her hands into his. "You fought for hope when I thought hope was gone. You are good-hearted and compassionate and understand the true meaning of family. Running Doe and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts for bringing our grandson home."
Tears fell at their own accord. "Thank you," she said, taking the box from her friend. Beneath the red tissue paper laid a deer-hide beaded bag with hand-stitched floral design. A red flower filled with white laid atop a blue flower. Green leaves and stems surrounded the flower. "It's beautiful," Megan said, running her hand over the stitching.
"That's a typical Blackfoot floral design taught to me by my grandmother," Running Doe said, now beside Megan.
"My dorm mates will be asking for these," Megan said, eyeing the fine detail.
The old woman smiled with pride. "There's something else in the box, child," Running Doe said.
A red, white, and blue beaded necklace lay underneath the next layer of tissue paper. When Megan put it on, the wind rushed over her. What is happening to me? she wondered, her hand holding onto the necklace.
"That's the four winds design," Running Doe said, smiling at Colby then at Megan.
"It's beautiful. Thank you." Megan's heart opened wide as it filled with love, respect, and admiration for her friends. "Your wisdom and generosity will forever be in my heart," Megan said, her voice shaky. "I am glad you have reunited." Running Doe squeezed Megan's hand. The gesture spoke more than words.