While several things in Hannah's life had given her a reputation for being the 'nervous' one, that had always been well-balanced or often outweighed by her sunny nature. Exams sent her into panics, but they never lasted forever, high levels of tension or upset moved her to tears, but they were usually easily solved – but what her life had become over the last six weeks was something far removed from that, the nervousness and jumpiness with her constantly, the tears never far away, and most of her actions forced through knowing they were expected, rather than any real joy.

Like baking. She knew the others were worried for her, so she baked – not as often as before, but enough that at least the appearance of normalcy was in place. Hannah didn't know if she had them fooled, as in her heart, she certainly wasn't fooling herself.

As usual now when he hugged her, her hug was a little tighter in return, as if constantly reassuring herself that safety and comfort were within easy reach. And though the compliment was well-intended, even the idea of half of Great Britain coming to the house made her stomach twist.

"We'll leave some out on the doorstep for them," she said, flashing him a smile, trying for teasing.