Page 53 of Ghosts and Ginger Tea

Keanu formally announced that our people would no longer prepare for war. But despite the good news, the kingdom still seemed uneasy about the approaching warlord, as reported by Malakai. He said the people of ‘Anolani Kingdom believed the rumors about the warlord, and how he turned those he conquered into slaves.

“Is it really worth the price?” Malakai asked. “Our people will suffer because you choose not to join Kalani and fight this warlord.” I overheard the two talking in the hallway as they walked away one night. Keanu hardly slept in the room. We drank ginger tea together, but then he’d leave, spending his time and nights counseling with his advisors and captains, and sometimes traveling away to spy, hoping to glimpse the approaching warlord.

But he dedicated his days to me.

After a few days of mourning and funerals, and hardly a chance to be alone with Keanu, he asked if I could show him how to spearfish. I was delighted, and here we were.

Ever since our chat on the cliff edge, and that romantic kiss, we knew we were playing the deadliest game. So death was inevitable.

We must make the most of our time then…

“What are you thinking about?” I asked, and Keanu blinked, as if returning from his peaceful thoughts.

“Oh. It’s just beautiful out here.” He turned to me and smiled. “You’re beautiful.”

I sighed. “You don’t have to lie, Keanu. I know that I’m homely.”

“Did someone tell you that, or do you believe that about yourself?” he asked.

I shrugged. “Both. But it’s also the truth that I’m just not very pretty. Not like Kiki.”

Keanu remained quiet, then he folded his arms. His patience was charming.

I added, “My father always used to say Kiki was the blossom of Ka‘u. She is a lot more talented and motherlike than I am.” At that, I frowned. “Keanu, can I ask you something?”

“Of course.” He stepped closer, and I realized it was the first time I had sought him for any kind of counsel or advice.

“Kiki and Peter have been seeing each other.”

“They have?” The king grinned, then paused. “Are you worried for her?”

“Sort of. I trust her judgment but… at the same time, I don’t trust Peter.”

“Why not?”

“He’s so… serious. Never smiles. Watches your every move…” I licked my lips before asking, “Do you believe Peter would treat my sister well?”

“Peter is a good man. He’s like a brother to me.” Keanu unfolded his arms and watched the water reflections on his hand. “When we were younger, I saved his life. He got caught in a current. I took a canoe out and rescued him.”

I blinked. So was Peter keeping an eye on Keanu because he feared the king would be murdered again?

“He’s always had my back,” Keanu said. “He’s pono, just like his father. Always keeps his word.” He shrugged. “He was courting a young woman from the kingdom a while ago. She broke his heart, and, truthfully, he hasn’t been the same since.”

I thought about it.

“Do you trust my judgment?” Keanu asked.

Silence. Then, I slowly nodded. “I’m beginning to.”

“Well, then trust me when I say that you’re stunning.” His fingers grazed my cheek, and it made me feel like being pulled into an endless current. “Moon of my tide.” He smiled.

I cleared my throat, changing the subject. The mood had turned too sweet. Too tender, because Keanu listened to me. Showed he really cared.

“It’s beautiful out here because Kāne has made it so. He gives love, life, and light to all of this. The ‘aina would not be what it is without his power.”

Keanu looked down. “I know. I’ve known it my whole life, I just…” His voice trailed off.

“What exactly did you do to anger Kāne?” I asked.