Chapter 18

KASSIE AND LAURA MADE THEIR way down to the kitchen and stopped at the doorway, peering through. Kassie couldn't spot anything at first, distracted by the workers who rushed around the crowded room while pots and pans steamed and sizzled on an excessively wide stove that took up most of one wall.

'Ah, there she is,' Loi pointed and Kassie could see Cat at a table, wedged in at the end of the room, enjoying her breakfast with her eyes closed in bliss. Kassie's stomach growled and they made their way to the table, sitting opposite Cat.

'Morning, kitty Cat,' Loi teased. 'Enjoying your breakfast?'

Cat's eyes snapped open and she stared for an instant then reverently said, 'Real cream.'

Kassie twisted, looking for the pot of porridge.

'Hello girls, you're awake now.' A kitchen maid with strands of pale blonde hair escaping her white cap smiled at them. 'Would you like some porridge?' She chuckled at their enthusiastic responses and turned. 'Oh look! Another one. Well, have a seat and