erika is a woman who maintains internal relationships…Ver more

“Col,” she said, turning to him with tears in her eyes. “My name is Naya. That’s true, but I didn’t tell you the whole truth. I’m Chief Tacoda’s daughter. My tribe is one of the richest in the entire region.” Col stared at her as if he’d never seen her before. “Rich, but your clothes, your shelter, everything was a lie,” Naya finished, her voice breaking.

I came here disguised as a poor woman because I was tired of men who only wanted me for my wealth. I wanted to find someone who would love me for who I am, not for what I own. Naya’s mother approached, holding out a beautiful traditional Apache dress, adorned with shimmering beads and intricate embroidery. “It’s time to go home, daughter.”

You’ve completed your search. But Cole didn’t move. His face had shifted from confusion to something darker. Pain, betrayal. Was it all a test? his voice trembled. I was a test. No, Naya exclaimed, trying to approach him, but Cole backed away. Cole, please let me explain. Explain what?

Cole’s voice now sounded bitter. “That you played me, that while I shared my last penny with you, you had riches waiting for you, that every time I gave you my food, my jacket, my time, did you know I was a fool?” “You’re not a fool!” Naya shouted, tears now streaming freely down her cheeks.

You are the noblest man I have ever known. That’s why I did this, to find you. The village crowd murmured intensely. Rosa and the other women who had mistreated Naya now looked terrified, fearing reprisals. The merchants who had refused her service hid behind others. Tacoda watched the scene with interest.

She approached Cole, studying him with piercing eyes. “You are the man who helped my daughter.” It wasn’t a question, it was a statement. Cole looked at her with dignity despite his pain. He didn’t know who she was; it was simply the right thing to do. “Exactly,” Tacoda said approvingly. The wealthiest warriors from three tribes came to ask for my daughter’s hand in marriage.

They offered her horses, furs, jewels. But none shared their last meal with her. None gave her their only jacket, none defended her when she was humiliated. Cole remained silent, processing the chief’s words. “My daughter chose you, Cole,” Tacoda continued. “And I respect her choice. You have proven to have the heart of a true warrior, even without the riches of one.”

“I don’t want her wealth,” Cole said firmly, finally looking at Naya. “I never wanted it, but I did want her honesty.” Naya took a step forward, her voice desperate but honest. “You’re right. I should have told you the truth sooner. But I was afraid, Cole. Afraid that if you knew who I really was, you’d change. Afraid you’d treat me differently.”