I debated over whether or not to enter and then decided it was better than staying out in the open, where the witch might find me.

I dropped him a quick curtsy. “Thank you. My name is Miss von Teschen and I am in need of shelter. May I stay here for the night?”

“Certainly, Miss von Teschen. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Oleander. Come and meet my wife, Lily.”

As I followed him into the cottage, I saw a beautiful young woman seated at a table, peeling some potatoes. She rose as I entered, curtsying gracefully.

I suddenly became miserably aware of my rumpled and muddied dress. I was sure I looked a fright.

“Please excuse my appearance. I went walking and got lost in the woods.” I smiled at the young woman, deciding it was best not to trouble these kind people with the truth of my plight.

Lily smiled back at me. Her hair was loose over her shoulders, like ripples of sunlight. Her eyes were the color of honey. She could’ve been Oleander’s sister.

“We’ve been waiting for you, Sioni.”