By the time Althea paused to rest, sweat clung to her skin. Still, an achieved smile tugged at her lips when she took in the finished result of their cleaning. The cottage felt roomy and right—perfect for a workspace. There was even a rooftop she could use for practice.

Something tugged at her mind, though, so she stepped outside and asked Rudy, “Would it be possible to replace all the furniture inside?”

“Of course, My Lady. I will make the arrangements,” Rudy answered. Althea ...