Annie pats Kate s hand. Afternoon, Sweet Sap. Li l Toot tells me you girls are out of school for the summer now. Kate s never been able to lie to grown-ups, so she doesn t try this time, just turns her attention to the charm bracelet. You re changin the subject on me, Sweet Sap.
Fanny always smells when somethin s downwind.
Kate doesn t even smile at Annie s familiar joke. Instead, the corners of her mouth turn twitchy and her tears start right back up. Betty hops off her chair and runs to Kate s side, understanding instantly. Annie asks, brushing tears off Kate s hot cheek, her charms skating its surface, cutting paths in the slick. Kate closes her eyes to the tickle and breathes.