go with the baby?” Kriste

cooler, but it still felt good to be in the outdoors. They had bathed in the lake and washed their clothes, and Kristen c

im in the night,” Maya said worriedly. “He always has a fe

ying wanly on his back on Maya

lay in t

ee you at all times and you must not go any

cing behind her to see if she could still see Maya. She waved cheerfully at them. They waved

They had all but avoided Kristen and Maya the entire time they were bathing and washing their clothes, and Kristen wa

Marshall, who was keeping a close eye on the women

him

h diaper. She stared sadly at the tiny baby on her lap. She could count every one of his ribs,

ring a plain white shift that stopped just above her knees. She quickly unlaced the top of

hoarse cry before falling silent and collapsing weakly against her. Kristen rested her l

inued to hold him, rocking back and forth a little, and didn’t release him until he bega

Kristen? Are you all right? You’re ve

and then looked at the baby fondly. “He’s a tough little one. I have n

that isn’t how it works, Maya. I

hand to her head, as Maya stared at her w

me since I’ve had to heal such a deep sickness. I’m just not used to it. I’ll be fi

ead. “I’m fine. Do

with Maya. They sat silently for a few minutes as Maya crooned so

women had gathered their clothes, and Maya squeezed her hand before stan

We’ll get you

other swim. It’s been many moons since I’ve gotten to swim, and t