Lory was impressed. Perhaps if Lory believed her new life was great, she'd actually feel happy.

She put the shawl away and climbed down from the cart she had been sitting on. She tried to smile, but it didn't reach her eyes. Instead, she stared out over the water as her cousin observed her dress. She wanted Lory to envy her for her new life. And yet it appalled her.

She looked back at the other girl. "Aye, it's the prettiest thing I've ever worn," she said, trying once again to sound cheerful. "You look nice too."

There was nothing new about Lory.