She hoped so. As it turned out, he was right. Mrs. Lowell welcomed them warmly and escorted them to the back of the house. “I hope you don’t mind the kitchen. In this house, it’s where most of the living is done.”

Guessing this was a test of sorts, Kendra said, “I love a warm, friendly kitchen.”

“I hope this one includes some of your daughter’s baking,” Lucas added.

The midwife laughed. “Indeed it does.”

Kendra had barely noticed the kitchen the day before, but now she saw that it was spacious and full of sunshine and the enticing odors of baking. Maggie, Jane, and Katie were sitting at the large oak table, sipping tea and waiting for their visitors. Patches, the absurdly colorful cat, sat contentedly on Katie’s lap, one eye on the newcomers and the other on the platter of assorted cakes.

The females stood politely and Patches flowed to the floor. Jane Potter looked very like her older sister, with fair hair and a pleasant face. She was too thin, but otherwise looked healthy and competent, if a little wary. Katie held Jane’s hand, but she studied Kendra intently.

Jane said, “Lord Foxton, I believe I’m indebted to you for saving my life, and also that of my daughter.”

Another test, Kendra thought. Jane was staking her claim to Katie and needed reassurance that Kendra wouldn’t demand to take custody of the girl. Kendra thought of her own willingness to flee to America with Christopher if necessary. She couldn’t force another woman to face such a terrible choice. Nor could she wrench another child away from all she knew as her son had been.

Lucas said, “I think thanks should be directed to the Divine. I’m very glad the healing seems to have been effective. Do you feel entirely well?”

“Better than I have in years.” She considered. “I’d forgotten what it felt like to be healthy. Are you always so successful with your healings?”

He shook his head. “No, it’s a chancy gift. I’m very glad it worked this time.”

Katie had been staring at Kendra, and now she spoke. “What should I call you?”

Kendra remembered what Lucas had said. “How about Aunt Kendra? That’s easier than trying to explain that you have two mothers.”

“Aunt Kendra.” Katie spoke the words experimentally, then gave a little nod. “I like having another aunt.”

“Does that mean you’re my aunt also?” Maggie asked.

“If you want me to be,” Kendra said obligingly, wanting to enlist the good will of as many members of this family as she could.

Maggie smiled. “Then please sit, Aunt Kendra and Lord Foxton, and have tea and some of my ginger cakes while they’re still warm.”