Anne hugged Mrs. Blacke and cried in the comforting safety of her big, strong arms. And then Mrs. Blacke pulled away, took her by the shoulders, and made a proposal that made her world spin even more. She sniffed and brought up her hand to wipe her cheek with her sleeve.

"I... wish that was possible, Mrs. Blacke. I think I would be really happy if I live 'ere and was yer daughter." With no worries about food on the table, not all the household tasks on her shoulders alone, a loving mother, a father she didn't need to fear, and dear Kate always by her side. But... "But I 'ave a family. And me father would never allow it. And they need me. And I love them. I want to be yer daughter. But I also want me own family..."

She looked at Mrs. Blacke helplessly, worried that she had hurt the woman's feelings. Would Mrs. Blacke pull away from her? Would she close that wardrobe and regret ever even offering Anne anything? Would she send her away?