Kimberly was finally cold and hungry enough to lower the ramp and knock on the door to the longhouse. It was immediately opened by Declan and was closed behind her as she hurried in.
“Where’s Heather?” Kimberly demanded after the door was closed.
“She’s lying down over by the hearth, but I think she is sleeping so leave her alone,” Declan said.
“You forced her to sleep on the floor like a dog?” Kimberly asked louder than normal. “She’s no dog to be kicked to the floor and refused anything resembling acceptable human treatment!” Declan was holding up his hand to try to get her to quiet down and to interrupt her tirade.
“No one forced her to lie on the floor,” Declan said. “She chose to lay there. The floor in front of the hearth is quite warm and, with a deer hide, can be quite cozy. I
