Chapter 44

Morning light woke her ungratefully, still curled on her bed sheets, her face sore from dry tears and her feet ice cold from sleeping without covering. She felt like she had the worst hangover from hell and groaned when she saw the time.

She had promised to help at the coffee morning today. The little old ladies had talked her into it, asking her to bring Muffin for some granny love, and she hadn’t been able to refuse. As if by coincidence, the rap on her door by an over-happy Abby just added to her groans. She sank facedown back onto the bed, allowing herself to slide off her feet. The effort of moving was almost unbearable. She was fatigued.

“I’m coming!” She half yelled, half mumbled as she dragged herself to let her in.

“Oh my god, Rose, it’s after nine, for goodness sake. We need to get there at half past! Dressed. Now!” Abby was bounding around, overly energetic for her liking and pushing her back into the cottage.

Rose caught sight of her dishevelled