Chapter 65
Early the next morning, before dawn, all six of the village men entered the community house, their faces grim.
They awoke Charlotte, Melisse, Rachel and Brandi and ordered them to dress and come down to the gathering room.
After a long silence, Kohler spoke, his voice deep and troubled. “We have tarried long enough.” He cast cold eyes on Melisse. “You have done wrong.”
“She didn't mean any harm,” Rachel said in a high and quivery tone.
Kohler glared at her. “She stole our food and supplies; she is a thief. Are you saying you are as well?”
Rachel shook her head, then meekly stepped back into the shadows, too afraid to stand up bravely, and too embarrassed and ashamed by her fear to look at anyone.
Charlotte glanced at Melisse, who shook her head waving Charlotte off.
“Bri
