“My family’s fine,” he says sharply, grabbing another arrow and falling quiet as he focuses on his aim. The last one was a little off; this time, he wants to hit the red, at least. Doesn’t have to be dead center, as long as it’s there.

Once the arrow is loose, Gale lowers his bow and stares out at the target. No one usually gets the implications of what he says. Lying about it isn’t something he likes doing, but it’s better than being the subject of anyone’s pity. Most of the time people assume it’s a joke just from the casual way he says it. But they get by. So what if it isn’t perfect, or luxurious? They have all that they need, and by coming here, Gale is getting even more than that.

Going back to her question, he replies, “Not really, unless you count the archery club. Most of them already know how to shoot, though.”