The next morning, Lotte woke with a start, glaring at the unfamiliar room. She scratched her itching scalp.
Ursula peeked through the doorway. “Hey, sleepyhead. You’re awake.”
“Where are we?” Lotte pushed herself to a sitting position.
“At a friend’s house. Are you hungry?”
Lotte nodded and then burst into tears. “I am. I want…can I wash up someplace? It’s been so long.”
“Of course, you can. Come on, I’ll help you.” Ursula helped her off the cot and led her to the bathroom, equipped with a tall tub and a sink with running water. Ursula filled the tub, laid a bar of soap on the edge, and then helped Lotte take her nightgown off.
Lotte glanced at the soft, white material. She didn’t remember having put it on. All she remembered was the woolen cape Ursula had handed her before she mount
