Lauren stepped aside, gesturing him in. He shook snow from his coat with care, nodding thanks. Mabel stirred in her chair by the fire, blanket slipping. Charles knelt beside her at once, murmuring, “Aunt Mabel, there you are. How did you get so far wandering? Let’s get you home safe.” His concern wrapped the room like a blanket.
His gratitude flowed easily then. “You’ve been a godsend, keeping her warm through this mess,” Charles said to Lauren, eyes crinkling. “Practical in a storm like few are—I’d have lost my mind out there alone.” He hung his coat neatly, making the cottage feel larger, steadier.