Behind the Brave Front

Marcella

I stared at Tess in astonishment.

She had an intense look on her face, a strained look.

I did not know how to react.

Was I supposed to be angry? Or did I laugh out loud?

I chose the second option.

I laughed.

***

She stared at me, baffled as I laughed.

Her face turned pink, the freckles standing out prominently. Indignation warred with embarrassment on her face.

Mildred hurried in, looking