Walking Tall

Meeting the People

Tall picked her up and set her on her feet. He calmly grasped her hand, gently pulling her out of the teepee and slowly walked around the homes. He introduced her to a lot of people, although she may never see them again. Every person she saw was beautiful, graceful especially the women. Most were couples, some a few single men or women.

She wondered, was Tall a taken man? Was the kissing in the tent to make her feel desired and safe or was it desire from not getting any action. She had to find out.

"So," She began. "Are you a taken man?"

He smiled at her. "No. I am a free man. I've not met the right partner until recently,"

She blushed. She was sure he was referring to her. "How about you? Are you a free woman?"

A sad smile brushed acrossed her face. "I'm single, yes."

He tilted her chin so her eyes were locked with his. "I did not mean to bring up recent sour memories, Claire. My only regret is that I did not get there sooner then I did and for that I am sorry."

She pulled him close, imbracing his warmth, his smell. She was greatful for this man. She pulled out of the hug, smiling like a little school girl. "You have no idea how greatful I am that you came when you did though. If it weren't for you I probably would've been there for hours before he was done. You saved me and for that I am so ever greatful. Don't think that you should've gotten there sooner. You came when you did and for that I am thankful."

" You think so noble."

"And what is that supposed to mean, Tall?" She mused at him. His face was full of worry. Had he insulted her?

"I just mean that usually with all of the other pale skins thinking so one minded and selfish that I am not used to you being so kind and giving. All of your people we have dealt with haven't been as noble as you. They have always been mean, arrogant, and selfish. You clearly are not the case. I knew there was something special about you."

She blushed. She did not actually know how white people acted towards Native americans, but she had always read them in books. She understood what he was saying and did not take it as an insult.

The sun was setting, how long had she been absorbed in Tall's world. She could live in it all day. She left comfortable here, calm and safe. She loved that she could feel as if she had completely left the state of Texas, left her rich,snot nosed family behind. Her she could enjoy nature, truely being outdoors. Here her soul felt stilled. It was the first time she felt like she could say she was home.

"I cannot wait until the dancing begins.Are you willing to stay up and watch the dancing?"

"It sounds exicting. I wouldn't miss it for the world."

He gave her a warm, amused look. "Are you enjoying yourself?"

"I feel like I'm home, Tall."

He grabbed her waist and pulled her close, looking out at the setting sun. "Good. I was worried you would be bored. Your family must be rich. Those clothes are high end are the not?"

"They are. My family is so stuck up. Self centered and can never see passed her own needs. They talk as if they're on royal thrones. I dislike the way my family sees things. They view the world as a profit. I see it as a gift. They don't understand the way I view things. I've always been the outsider. I love nature and the things it bring to us. I see all people as equal, but my family doesnt. They believe Native Americans shouldn't exsist and African Americans not far behind them. I see people for who they are and not their skin."

Claire sighed. Tall turned to face her. "You are a true Native American."

"I'm not Native American, Tall." She giggled.