Stephanie's POV
The deep, sickly chill that had gripped me for those few scary days finally let go. It was like a fog lifting from my body. One morning, I woke up and the sun felt warm again, not like an enemy. The shivering was gone. The heavy weakness had pulled back, leaving just the normal, weird tiredness that came with the baby.
I could help Cane again. Not with the heavy work on the boat—my belly was starting to curve just enough to throw off my balance—but with everything else. I braided vines for ropes until my fingers were sore. I cured fish strips for the journey. I was useful. It made me feel strong.
Of course, the baby had to have one last say.
It happened over breakfast. Cane had found a new bush with fat, purple fruits. They smelled incredible, like candy and sunshine. My mouth watered the second I saw them.
"Taste one," Cane urged, grinning. "I tried it last night. They're amazing."
