AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“I’ve had vaccinations for—”
“I’m aware. Don’t assume because you’ve had vaccinations against yellow fever and others, and you’re taking antimalarial meds that you’re safe. Many other diseases are caused by fungal pathogens and parasites as well as the bacterial and viral ones you’re vaccinated against. There’s a risk of Chagas disease, adiaspiromycosis, and now leishmaniasis, especially with the surrounding mines clogging the waterways.” Taking my chin in his hand, he tilts my head slightly and peers closely into my eyes. “Onchocerciasis, an eye disease,” he whispers while concentrating before releasing me and scooping up my foot. He brushes away dried mud before angling my foot to inspect it.
“I swear you’re trying to scare me.”
He releases my foot and then cages me in, leaning both arms on either side of the treatment table so we’re nose to nose. “Eden.”
I swallow hard, acknowledging the seriousness in his eyes.
“You scare me by merely being here, especially with the wet weather coming. Everything is exacerbated in my mind, and you and our baby are my responsibility.”
23
SAMUEL
“Asoo is bringing your cell,” Samuel informs Eden. “I asked him to pack it every trip to check your messages and send word back to your family. You need to account for your safety.”
“Of course,” Eden says.
Eden has been quiet for the last couple of days. He hopes he has educated her on the dangers other than the visible ones she may face.
“He’s also bringing more medical supplies.”
“For me or you?”
“Both. I’m heading there now to meet him. Do you feel well enough to join me?”
“As long as you can handle my slower pace.” She takes his hand, and they meander through the village.
“Did I mention there’s a ceremony tonight?”
“No. What type of ceremony?”
He holds her hand while she balances to step over an exposed root. “I know how you worry when I take ayahuasca, only tonight is special. I’m drinking the teawiththe shaman. Together we hope to find answers.”
Eden stops walking. “Have you done this before? I mean with the shaman. He usually guides you, right? Will your minds be locked together in, I don’t know, some weird dimension?”
“I haven’t, still it’s not necessary to worry.” Samuel rests his hand on her cheek. “I won’t be far away. Kaikare is overseeing the ceremony.”
“Don’t for one minute assume I’ll be sleeping while you’re puking your guts up and stuck in some universe. I’ll be there with you, at least physically and emotionally.”
“Eden, I—”
“No. Don’t tell me not to come. I. Will. Be. There.”
“It could go well into the early hours of the morning.”
“I expect it will.”
For now, there’s no changing her mind. He takes her hand and continues toward the river. “Is there anything you want to request from Asoo? Cushions? Even pillows to sleep with in the hammock? Do you need support under your stomach or between your legs for comfort?”
“Is it hygienic to have those things here? I didn’t think the Ularans used anything like that from the Western world.”
“No, they don’t.”
“Then neither will I. You know I want to do this like the other ladies in the village and my Gran.”
“Is that what this is about? To prove you’re as strong as your grandmother? I understand you’re trying to connect with her on some level, but you need to remember everyone’s journey is different. Every pregnancy is different. What do you need to support you through the next few weeks?”
