Euphemia and Percy were sitting in the Windsor chairs on either side of the range whilst Mary was busy making tea and handing round her home-made biscuits. Edward stood to one side, listening as Euphemia held court. As Charlotte opened the door, they all looked up. Euphemia flung her arms wide. ‘My dear child, we were so worried about you after last night. We just had to come and see if you’re all right. Come here and kiss your old aunt.’ Charlotte was enfolded in a perfumed embrace. ‘Now, sit down, dear girl. Your uncle and I want to talk to you.’ Edward placed a chair for Charlotte to sit beside her aunt, who didn’t let go of the young woman’s hand. ‘We’ve seen your father – briefly – but he’s made it quite clear we’re not wanted in this house, but’ – she glanced up – ‘we found a welcome with Mary and Edward. From what I can glean, it’s these two good people who’ve been the mainstays in your life. Am I right?’ ‘You are, Aunt,’ Charlotte said huskily, realizing just how very much she owed these loyal people.
