*Anna*

“Another package delivered secretly”. Nan doesn’t sound too pleased, possibly because the package is larger than the others, not easily hidden within the folds of her skirt.

I roll out from beneath the covers, walk over and take the long, slender box from my maid. I carry it back to the bed, open it. Nestled inside is a beautiful white lace parasol, the note accompanying it lengthier than any of the ones that had come before. ‘Someone I hold in high regard once told me white goes with anything’.

He holds me in high regard, and he remembers my words. Clutching the note to my breast, I know I...