Trafika Europe 8 - Romanian Holiday

Christopher Kloeble

“You can hug my leg, too, if you want. The leather came from Hunter Josfer.” “Where did you find them?” “They’re mine.” “What will you trade for them?” Anni spread some of her Most Beloved Possessions before them. “You can take whatever you want.” “Whatever I want?” Mina’s eyesglittered, shebentdown, biting her lip and reaching for the dagger—then drew back, folded her arms. “No. These are my favorite boots.” “Please, let’s trade.” “No.” “I’ll tell you something.” “What?” “My secret.” “Like Farmer Egler’s?” said

Mina. “Then I don’t want to know it.” “No. A real secret.” “Maybe I already know it. You have to tell me first.” A moment ago Mina’s hair had been gray, but now it shimmered blond, as if the sun shone on it. “But you can’t tell anyone else,” whispered Anni, glancing back at the door to make sure they were alone. “Nobody!” Mina nodded eagerly. Anni held one hand in front of her lips and leaned forward: “Sometimes I wake up. Late at night. And then I have this feeling, as if . . .” “What?” “As if Julius is thinking about me.” “Julius Habom!” gaspedMina.

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