Translator: Volume 06 of 08

It’s a struggle for Reebehkuh to come to grips with how much her life has changed in the past year, especially as more changes come her way with more drawing opportunities and preparing for college. Not sure that she can believe someone is donating money to construct a new building for the storage of her culture’s ancient documents, Annjuhleesuh has to step up to the challenge of being the boss.

A peek inside:

“That’s better. If you ladies are tired from the flight, I can show you to the guest bedroom.”

Lynn Sue suggests, “Dad, I can share my room with Reebehkuh and save the guest bedroom for Mariam.”

“I’m not actually sure that she’s interested in coming. I just invited her and she said she would think about it.”

“Well, Reebehkuh and I can still share my room.”

Robert hesitates then says, “I get the feeling that there’s something you haven’t told me.”

Lynn Sue nods her head as she says, “You could say that. Dad, what I’m about to reveal is going to be surprising, probably more like shocking to you, and you’re the first person I’ve been willing to tell and I’m hoping that you can listen with a very open mind because I went into the situation with my eyes open and of my own free choice and have experienced nothing but joy, beauty, and happiness.”

“If you think it’s so good, why are you so concerned about my reaction?”

“Because it’s not considered appropriate by the majority of societal mores.” Before he can ask her what she means, Lynn Sue clearly reaches over to hold Reebehkuh’s hand, smiles at her, receives a tentative smile in return, and looks at her dad who’s eyes grow very wide as the implication sinks in.

“You two?” He seems unable to say more.

“Yes, Dad.”

“Does Henry know?”

“Of course he knows. I wouldn’t hide something so important from my lover and husband.”

“Wha . . . what’s he think about it?”

“He has no objections at all.”

“How? Why?” He doesn’t miss Reebehkuh squeezing Lynn Sue’s hand.

Reebehkuh answers, “Robert, first of all, none of us planned for our relationship to develop to what it’s become, but as it slowly grew over many months, it was too wonderful to throw away. We’re all adults and what we do with our lives and bodies is our choice and since we’re not hurting anyone or interfering with anyone else’s life, it’s nobody’s business. As Lynn Sue said, you’re the first to be told and I know it’s not to hurt or disturb you. We haven’t specifically talked about it, but I have to assume that she greatly cares about you and about your opinion of her, and wants you to understand more about who she is.”

“That’s very true, Dad.”

“How . . . how involved and why aren’t you telling it?” He looks at Lynn Sue.

“Because it’s much more about my situation and although I’m half trembling inside with fear that you may think less of Lynn Sue as a result, I think you’ll understand it better if it comes from my perspective. Lynn Sue was very happy with Henry and had no interest in anyone else, regardless of their gender. Margaret has teasingly complained on more than one occasion that Lynn Sue only has eyes for Henry and that she saw less of Lynn Sue after Henry entered her life, although they were only a couple of miles away almost every weekend, then when Lynn Sue was by herself and would drive up from the city.

“Lynn Sue is also a very generous and caring person and when she became aware of someone’s painful situation she wanted to help and was even willing to take time away from Henry to help, with his full knowledge and blessing. Just to be very clear, that help was to verbally support and encourage, to give suggestions of other help available, and sincerely and openly listen to the other person, and have sympathy for their situation. There was absolutely nothing physical about the support that Lynn Sue was offering and giving.”

“What happened?”