Page 79 (1/2)

Katie squeezed the doll harder Her lower lip tre came out Savannah understood perfectly What was there to say? "You better set the table She'll be in any minute" Katie flinched at the reminder, then nodded Slowly,

182

the plates and cups Her feet shuffled softly across the floor as she went back and forth from the dresser to the table Silverware and plates clanked in her wake

Savannah felt tears rise in her throat, and she turned quickly back to the stove before Katie could see her weakness Please don't call her stupid, Mama Please

The kitchen door swung open "Hi, kids"

Savannah spun around and saw her , Ma it over the nearest chair "Wow, so?"

Savannah stared at her one to talk to Miss Ames, hadn't they?

Katie eased toward Savannah and disappeared behind her skirts

Savannah forced an uncomfortable smile "It's rabbit, Mama Your favorite"

She frowned "I eat bunnies?"

Savannah hesitated "Not bunnies, rabbits"

"Oh" Mama pressed a hand to her stomach and said weakly, "Great Thanks"

Savannah couldn't wait another second She had to knohat happened at the school "H-How did it go?"

Mah suddenly narrowed eyes, and Savannah felt a wave of sick

fear