“There’s your plane.” Kate turned away from the plate-glass window and faced Abby. “Are you sure you want to go through with this? Going to the States will be a bigger shock than waking up at my hospital and seeing a Caucasian face.”

Abby nodded. “I’m sure. I’m apprehensive, but I’m sure.” She touched Kate lightly on the arm. “Kate, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. You’ve—”

Kate shook her head. “It’s been my privilege. When you return, remember that my place is your place. You’re welcome to stay with me as long as you wish.”

“Thank you.”

Abby turned and looked at the windows on the other side of the concourse that faced the highlands. “I’m going to walk over there one more time.”

“I’ll go with you.”

Abby picked up her bag, and they crossed the concourse. They stood looking toward the island’s interior. Abby reached her hand out and touched the glass with all five fingers. “I wish I could stay for the chief’s burial.”

“I’m sure he’d understand.”

“After you do the autopsy, the government will fly him back and bury him in the village, right?”

“Yes. They’ve committed to that.” Kate hesitated. “Abby, I can fly back to the village with him if you like.”

Abby turned and smiled. “Oh, Kate…thank you. That would mean a lot to me.”

“I’ll do it.”

Kate heard the first call for boarding. “They’re calling for your plane. We’d better go back.”

Abby looked out at the jungle again for several moments. “Good-bye, Miraba,” she whispered.

They turned and walked to the gate.

“You will keep in touch, won’t you, Abby?”

“Of course.” She shrugged. “You’re the only person on the planet I know.”

Kate hugged her. “That will change soon. You remember how to contact me on the Grid?”

“I have it written down.”

“Anytime. Don’t worry about the time difference.”

“Okay.” Abby looked at the boarding line, squared her shoulders, then glanced back at Kate. “Thanks again for all the clothes and personal items you bought for me.”

“Just trying to help you blend in.” She put a hand on her shoulder and smiled. “Wouldn’t want anyone knowing you hadn’t grown up there.” Kate paused before she spoke again. “Remember, if you get to Washington and your ride isn’t there to pick you up—”

“I know. I have the instructions to tap you. I’ll be fine, Kate.”

They hugged each other again, a tight, long hug. Abby bent down, picked up her bag, and stepped to the end of the line. She paused at the entrance to the jet bridge, turned, and waved. Kate smiled and waved back. She watched Abby disappear, then wiped the moisture from her eyes.