-15-

I lowered my head for a moment, smiling. Then I put my hands in my pants pockets. The twinkle in that pair of round eyes was really full of worry. And even, her pretty face looked so worried.

"I'm fine," I replied. She looked calm. "As you can see, I'm healthy." I repeated.

Now, it was her turn to lower her head for a moment. Then she looked at me with piercing eyes. Why is she crying?

"Thank God, skipper. I'm already scared. If you get sick because of what I did yesterday. Hiding you under the cot for a few hours. Really, that thing worries me."

"Then if so, will I get paid for it?" I asked. I took a step forward to bring our bodies closer. I can clearly see the blush on the two beautiful girl's cheeks.

"Wages? What?" she asked. And with just that question, my heart suddenly beats wildly.

"I ask--"

"Your name is Arni?"

My words stopped when suddenly my father came and pulled my body away from Arni. Then pointed Arni right in the face. "I asked, is your name Arni?!" he asked again with a higher intonation.

"I... yes, Master." Now, Arni answered in a frightened tone.

"You don't know yourself, married women are still teasing the respected skipper in this village. Weren't you taught ethics by your parents?"