Briar had the outward air of a very serious woman.

While humor was not lost on her, and she delighted in things as much as anyone else, she did so in her own muted fashion. Carefree laughter, entertainment, interests -- such were things for other people, and that had never bothered her.

She turned once the mistress stepped away, fixing her own inquisitive gaze upon her.

"You have already provided me with everything I need," she answered honestly. But, just as genuine, she continued, "if there is anything more, it will be because you want to, not because you need to."

As much as she appreciated the implication of that offer, she was hardly driven by such things. If the mistress ever wanted her closer, she hoped it would be because she liked her well enough, and not because she simply felt it necessary to keep her as a maid.

"How do you like your tea, miss?"