An uninvited Stranger

Vera

Everyone in the secret place assembled with heads bowed and embittered hearts. We were all decked in black outfits, a colour that signifies honour to the dead.

I was standing in the front line with my mate waiting for the final moment. Earlier, my mate had left to see Pete's body. He must have had all the time he wanted with it.

He wrung his hands against each other as those who carried the coffin emerged. He shifted uneasily from one foot to the other and I could tell that he was restless.

Quietly and without warning, I held his hand gently. He was slightly startled. He jerked my hand away suddenly and looked at me.

"Oh I'm sorry," he apologised quickly and held my hand. I squeezed his hand gently and he smiled before looking away. His attention was on the men who were approaching.

Everyone maintained silence until the casket was dropped. After making the usual chants to the moon goddess, everyone in the gathering moved out in an orderly manner. One after the other, we wished t