Her eyes closed, she basked in the band of sunlight like a mask across her face. She could tell he was about to say something, but she wanted this morning moment, so still, for herself.

“What is it?”
“I’ve checked all the taps, Jill. Nothing.”
“Yes?”
“But from the window in the attic I can just make out a well. It’s on an incline due southeast.”

Jill opened her eyes and stared at his profile. He was sitting on the edge of the bed, absently scratching his nose. By luck, they had found this cottage in the moonless night and already he was getting antsy. While she relished being indoors, he was constantly looking over his shoulder. Constantly on edge. Yet the reasons he was worried were abundantly clear.

She thought about calling him a fool, but he was right. Even if they were going to stay the day, the pair of them needed refreshment—not to mention cleaning. She lifted up off the plaid sheets and caught him in a hug.

“Alright, Jack. Let’s go.”