CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY SIX – WORKING TOGETHER

In the days that followed, an almost festive atmosphere seemed to take hold of their motley band of survivors. With the prospect of starvation eliminated, Juliana and Sophie's natural exuberance resurfaced in full force, and even Beatrice seemed less inclined to harsh judgment. "I have to admit," she said one evening, pausing to take a sip of the thin broth Kayla had heated over their meager fire. "You've...handled this situation admirably. For a commoner, that is." The backhanded compliment drew a startled laugh from Kayla's lips before she could stifle it. "Why, Beatrice, I do believe those were very nearly words of praise!" A faint tinge of color bloomed high on the other woman's sharp cheekbones. "Don't get ahead of yourself," she sniffed, even as the ghost of a smile played about the corners of her mouth. "It was merely an observation." But Kayla didn't miss the approving glance Beatrice shot towards Cassie, happily cooing in her makeshift crib nearby. As the tenuous peace re