“I hope so too.” Adelaide smiled more genuinely than she had done in quite some time, a small light of hope flickering in her chest. Perhaps the day would not be a complete loss after all.

If Emblyn’s grin was anything to go by, the hope would not be in vain.

Emblyn’s cottage was before them, only a few minutes more of walking, and Adelaide was impressed by its quaint, comfortable appearance. It was whitewashed and bore a thatched roof, the pathway to it lined with cornflowers and brush, which only added to its rustic appearance. Smoke coiled out of a small chimney at the back, and the windows at the front were entirely free of dirt or shadow.

Emblyn approached the neat white door and unlatched it, waving Adelaide in. “Come sit by the fire, Adelaide. I’ll brew us a dish o’ tay.”

Now finding the accent endearing rather than grating, Adelaide followed and smiled at the interior of the place. “Isn’t this lovely? So comfortable, and tasteful as well.”

Something in the comment made Emblyn bark an almost hoarse laugh as she built up the fire. “Nay, ‘tis only simple. I don’t need much. ‘Twas only ever ‘ome to Mam and me, still have her room and my own jus’ there, and the chairs were gifted by Lord de Dunstaville when he and his lady refurnished Tehidy. Do sit.”

Adelaide did so, settling into a chair while Emblyn prepared the tea. Soon, the entire cottage seemed filled with light and warmth, removing any remaining chill from Adelaide’s frame. Safe and comfortable, and finding herself so at ease, she dozed off for a moment or two.

She was woken by the door to the cottage bursting open, slamming back against the wall.

Basset stood in the door, his cravat limp and loose, his hair in complete disarray, his dark eyes almost wild as he scanned the room. He saw Adelaide, and his chest heaved, his throat working. “You’re safe,” he growled. “Thank God.” He slumped ever so slightly against the frame of the door, exhaling audibly.

“I did tell ee she was well, Harry,” Emblyn said from the chair across her, folding a flannel wrap about her as she straightened from a lounging position.

Adelaide glanced at her, taking in the tea before them and Emblyn’s repaired appearance. “How long have I slept, Emblyn?”

The girl smiled, winking at her. “Enow’ to take yer ease and get my brother here from Trevadden.”

“I’m sorry,” Adelaide whispered. “I intended…” She bit her lip, then looked back at Basset, who had straightened and closed the cottage door. “Could we stay a moment more, Basset? To take tea with Emblyn?”