She was more prepared this time and settled down with nary a complaint or protest. Her mind was still spinning from everything that had occurred, and she'd no doubt be mulling over things and developments for quite some time, but it was easier to focus on the present.

"This won't be easy." Whether she meant the new turn their relationship had taken or the fever that continued to lurk, Naomi didn't clarify. For all purposes, she very well could have meant both.