“I’ll tell you when you may come out,” Cousin Louise said. “And no peeking, Karlina.” While Karlina and I went into our bedroom, Anton went off by himself. “I do feel sorry for him. It doesn’t seem right that he can’t be with his family for Christmas.” I knew my opinion didn’t matter to anyone. I was an outsider and didn’t understand many of the decisions made by the elders. But I did know that even being surrounded by another family wasn’t the same as being with one’s own, and Anton and I had that in common this Christmas. I swallowed hard as memories of past Christmases pushed to the forefront of my mind. Karlina sat down on the edge of her bed. “I feel sad for Anton, as well. I asked my Vater why he couldn’t go home for at least a couple days, but he told me I should not question the decision of the elders. They believe he will do better if he remains away from his own village for a longer time.” Taking a position on the edge of my own bed, I met Karlina’s gaze.
