Chapter Ten

Hakea sorted the tools out, polishing again and again. The sun was high, and she was waiting for her break. Suddenly, she felt a presence beside her. She turned around to see young Tamil. His brown eyes were scared, or love struck, Hakea wasn't sure.
"Hakea, could yolu come with me?"
"Sure, Tamil. Let me just put these away, okay?"
"Sure. I'll be waiting by the coconut trees." He turned to leave, but not without a big sigh.
Hakea put the tools in the research hut, pondering as long as she could to think why Tamil would want to talk to her.
Hakea gulped and walked to the coconut trees, where Tamil was pacing.
"Um, you wanted to talk to me, tamil?"
"Yes, yes I do. I love you Hakea and I want to marry you!"
Hakea froze. How could Tamil love her? She thought of his father, Hiji, the man she used to love. No, she had given up love a long time ago. It was time to be alone. Plus, she devoted her time to work and Bindi.
"I'm sorry Tamil. I'm 54. I'm not interested, but I wish you good luck. Hope you find someone to your liking." Hakea turn to leave, her heart in her throat.
She went back to the research table, where Bindi was working.

By the pond, Atepa and Yap were playing a game.
"I can't believe you can't guess." She laughed. She pretended tpo hold something and rocked it back and forth.
"Are you seasick?"
"I'll give you one more chance."
"Um, you need a masssage?"
"Ugh! Yap, I'm, pregnant!"
"Oh. What?! You are!Yes! That's wonderful!" He kissed her then stood to tell everyone else.