Sun Mote Copse then drop on the deck and flop like a fish

When Niamh spoke her mother's name, Bat's chest hitched. She listened without interrupting, not really knowing what to think. She believed Niamh, especially because Bat knew about Kiwi's departure, though it was hard to picture her sister returning to fight and kill Colt. Her lips drew into a thin line even as the tears wobbling in her eyes finally fell, streaking down her slate cheeks.

When Niamh threatened her outright, Bat's face pinched. She swiped at her dripping nose and backed up another step, slowly shaking her head. "This has nothing to do with me," she said in a voice thickened with snot and tears. "I've been with Tris—Tegan—for months, living on the coast. I came back here to visit with our—his family." The explanation came out haltingly and Bat swallowed. "I didn't do anything wrong," she echoed feebly, feeling rawer than ever because of Niamh's threats, which Bat knew she didn't deserve.

She really didn't want to flee the scene, not without seeing @Finley or @Elwood, at least. But would Niamh even allow that? She seemed hellbent on blaming Bat—on punishing her—for her sister's crimes. Crying openly but silently now, Bat stared imploringly at Niamh, her insides clenching as she wondered if the she-wolf was about to insist she leave or maybe even chase her away.