Mei took a berry herself, examining it. “Maybe,” she said. “Why not? Jam keeps pretty well in the winter.” Rory beamed. “Go and find a can to put all these in.” Rory scampered off towards the pile of supplies and began searching. Violet stayed still and silent where she was. She cleared her throat. She remained ignored.
“Good mornin’,” she said nervously. Linus was the only one who mumbled “morning” in response. Mei, lounging against a rock, was too busy picking her nails with a small switchblade. Violet took a deep breath. “I’m sorry.” Movement in the camp slowed to a halt. All eyes turned to her. Violet stared at the ashes at her feet.
“I…I know I’ve been seemin’ ungrateful. Truth is…y’all have shown me a kindness I did not think I would see again. I don’t mean to shout and stomp. I ju
