A duel sensation of disappointment and relief struck Gretchen when she heard Matron Sykes' voice. She wanted to be with Mr Prewett for long, of course, but she was frightened of what his response might have been. He seemed surprised by the question - which was promising, she thought - but who knew what he might think now he had time to dwell on it.

It could be months before they saw each other again and even then it would rely on Kris of all people agreeing to help her!

"Mr Prewett," she replied with her head deliberately down, unable to look him in the eye as she followed the matron away, risking only a single glance back to give him a small, pert smile.

---

Bee is tremendous, isn't she?