The girl you’re waitin’ on, she’s your girlfriend?
Juniper. Yeah.
How’d you meet her?
We grew up together.
Do you love her?
I do. The first time I saw her was on this river. Just up from here. She saved my life.
From the snake bite.
That’s right. I was younger than you are now, but when I came to in the hospital and she was there, it was like the world split open, came back together new. Everything changed. I knew from then on I’d do anything for her.
Why aren’t ya’ll married?
I’ve asked. Several times. Marriage just doesn’t work for some people.
My dad says my parents may be gettin’ a divorce.
I’m sorry to hear that.
If it happens, and my mom moves us off the river, they say the government can come take our boat away.
Who says that?
Everybody. They passed a law so you can’t sell your boat. Can’t rent it. If the owner leaves, they got you. Game and Fish want ‘em off the river.
I’ve never been one to trust the government on matters of personal property, but if your parents love each other, there’s always a chance.
