Jocelyn's mother let out a sigh when her daughter said she wasn't feeling well. The woman knew exactly what the problem was, and she didn't press the matter further. It would be pointless, she thought, to force Jocelyn to come out and see Edgar. Deciding to let the girl rest, she prepared to receive the young man and treat him well, even though he would be unable to see his betrothed. When Edgar finally arrived, she welcomed him in. Politely, she offered him tea and made small talk. The woman felt a little ashamed as she apologized for Jocelyn's absence.<br/><br/>She felt even worse due to knowing Evelyn would marry Edgar if she had the chance. It broke her heart to see both her girls that miserable. The woman sighed and kept Edgar company for as long as he wanted to stay, and gave him a warm farewell at the door when the young man decided to leave.<br/><br/>(...)<br/><br/>On the next morning, as usual, the village life started quite early. Many of the women in the neighboring houses took their laundry out, to make use of whatever sunny spot they could find. As Jocelyn left with the dog, as usual, she was greeted by many of the neighbors who were outside doing chores and running errands.<br/><br/>To make sure her apprentice wouldn't cause any trouble by trying to go to the manor alone, the midwife had gotten there early that morning and was already waiting when girl and dog arrived. She looked at the dog and let out a sigh. "You really brought the dog, child. What am I to do with you?". She raised her hand as though stating she did not really expect a reply. "Doesn't matter. Let us go and get this over with. Let me do the talking, and speak only when spoken to. Is that clear, child?"