"Anna, would you like to join us?" she asked, her tone mild.
Anna hesitated, then shook her head. "No, I'm simply…thinking."
Jacqueline nodded, expecting the unstated words. "Take your time. We're here if you need something."
Anna gave a small, almost imperceptible nod earlier than turning and walking away. It wasn't a good deal, but it was a start.
Jacqueline returned to Sally, who gave her an encouraging smile. "You're doing great. Just keep being yourself."
Jacqueline smiled and returned, feeling a renewed sense of hope. "Thank you, Sally. We'll get through this, one step at a time."
___________
The next morning Jacqueline jolted awake to the sound of loud voices outside the doors. She quickly dressed and stepped into the hallway, where she discovered a set of maids, some pack members, and guards accused, their expressions a mix of situation and frustration.
"What's happening in this place?" she asked, drawing near Sally, who stood at the threshold of the group.
