When they reached the house, Isabel knocked on the door, which soon opened to reveal a pleasantly surprised Mrs. Hawthorne. "Isabel! Tristan! What brings you here?" she asked, stepping aside to let them in.
Isabel smiled warmly. "I just wanted to talk to you about a few things, Mrs. Hawthorne. Thank you for seeing us on such short notice."
Mrs. Hawthorne waved her hand dismissively. "Nonsense, dear. You’re always welcome here. Come in, both of you, and let’s sit by the fire."
As they settled by the fire, Isabel took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "Mrs. Hawthorne, I wanted to thank you for taking such good care of my mother while I was gone. It means more to me than I can express."
Mrs. Hawthorne reached out and patted Isabel’s hand. "Oh, Isabel, it was no trouble at all. Your m
