"Go back now," Mrs. Hamilton shakily stood up, leaving behind a cup of cold tea without giving Sophia a clear answer.

Sophia left the old lady's courtyard with mixed feelings, worried she'd spoken too harshly and upset the old lady. Both practical concerns and emotional weight pressed down on her.

Walking back to her courtyard deep in thought, she saw light coming from the bedroom. Standing at the doorway, her eyes focused and clearly saw William standing inside, ...