258 You're No Boy!

Appreciative of that respectful tone, Pilor handed off the red longbow. He watched how LaRee accepted her with both hands and made sure to never let the bow touch the ground in any way. 

"I need one more arrow." 

LaRee's remark surprised a few forgetful spectators. But Pilor remembered the terms and reached over the counter. "Here you are, boy. I hope you don't lose too badly. Or I might feel bad taking your friend's money." 

Finally, for a brief moment, LaRee's stern expression cracked apart. He glanced at Ayse, spotting the expected thumbs-up. "We are not friends. We are brothers. That is why he trusts me. And I trust him." 

That's when LaRee took the spare arrow. All eyes landed on his tanned shoulders as LaRee lightly tossed the arrow in the air. He took his time finding the balance point and flicking the plastic arrowhead.