I came to my senses and found myself on Mother’s bed with two pair of eyes watching me with concern. Mother continued rubbing my wrists and the stranger, my father, offered me a cup of liquid.

“Drink this.” he ordered gently. The timbre of his voice was powerful and somehow soothing. I accepted the drink and looked over the rim of the cup at the two people who were my parents as I sipped the hot brew. The peppery taste of galangal lingered on my tongue and slipped down my throat spreading it’s warmth throughout my body.

Mother spoke first. “Oh, Valenta, I am sorry I shocked you. Never did I dream you would have such a reaction. I just thought you would be as excited as I to at last see Julian -- your Father.

I patted her hand and hoped I sounded reassuring. “The fault is not yours Mother. Besides, I am fine now.”

“Rather you find the fault in me, eh daughter?” said my father.

I looked into the dark eyes so like my own and challenged, “How in blazes am I supposed to feel? Not a word all these years and now you expect my understanding?”

“Expect?” he asked then continued. “My dear girl, I do not expect you to understand without explanation. I only hope you will give me time to relate to you why I have been absent all this time. Then make your decision whether you want to know me or not.”

My mind and emotions were in turmoil. I had daydreamed about seeing my father as long as I could remember. Now I felt confused. Part of me wanted to scream at him. Another part wanted to have him hold me close and assure me everything was as it should be. Mother looked at me anxiously.

“Please excuse me.” I mumbled as I rose to my feet. “I think I need some fresh air.” I moved to the back door that opened into the garden.

“Valenta wait!” called Mother.

“Let her be, Rose.” I heard my father say. “Give her some time to think.”