Alda had a thick build and strong arms and helped me move the first day, acting like I weighed nothing. The plates of food she brought me were so overflowing I guessed she ordered double of everything. I had yet to leave my bed unassisted, for every time I stood the room began to spin and I wound up on the floor. “Good morning, my lady,” Alda said. “It is a beautiful day, and past time to get out of bed.” I swung my legs to the floor and the room stayed still. Getting to my feet did not make things markedly worse. I sighed with relief and Alda positively beamed. She brought me a dress so lovely, I hesitated to touch it. The white chemise was trimmed with delicate lace and edged in blue and green ribbons along the top and the bottom. The bodice was midnight blue and unlike any I had ever worn. “I still cannot get used to this,” I said, staring at the intricate dress. Alda sighed. “I will help you.” She spun me around and began tightening the laces. “A lady of nobility always has a maid dress them.”
