100

PHIN -

I walked along the edge of the bayou at daybreak. Koda and Kage trailed behind me, their steps careful as they took in the surroundings. I had to remember that they were essentially city boys. Cypress trees loomed above us, the Spanish moss draping down like nature's curtains. They were in awe.

"Today, I will show you boys some ways you can help out around here." I turned to face them. "There's always plenty to do, and it's a good way to get to know the land better."

Kage grinned. "I've been waiting for this. What are we doing first?"

"We'll start by checking the crawfish traps," I replied. "Then maybe give Viv and Morna a hand with the feast."

Koda glanced back toward the house. "Is Marilee coming too?"

"She'll join us later," I said. "Right now, she's helping her Mama in the kitchen."

We made our way through the marsh, avoiding the softer mud. The air was thick with the scent of wildflowers and wet earth. As we reached the traps, I saw they were packed full of crawfish, thei