Anne was frowning deep as she walked, but when Elijah spoke, she looked up and gave him a smile that didn't reach her eyes.

They reached the yard and entered the small cottage, which was packed with people. Not that so many people had come. They had tried to keep it small. But with the Wards, including Maggie and her family, and some of the fishing girls and some neighbours, the room was full and filled with noise. Only Rose was not there, since she had to go back to work.

Bram ran over to Elijah and hugged him. "Elijah! I was afraid you wouldn't come!"

Alice was sitting next to Tobias, smiling now and then when someone congratulated her. She met Anne's eyes but looked away. Anne sat down next to her and took her hand, but Alice pulled her hand away, turned to Tobias and said something about the food. Anne felt like she had just been slapped.