More than anything

Greta's smile widens. Time has softened the memory of that colossal misunderstanding into something merely amusing, rather than embarrassing. And though the scarf remains one of the finest things she has, she's also grown accustomed to a certain degree of relative luxury. She'll be able to wear it without feeling as if she's kidding herself, once the weather cools enough for it.

Of course, when he'd gifted it to her, she'd assumed that, sooner or later, she'd be returning to her more humble Village life. All the more reason not to give herself airs while she was away. So much for that excuse.

"It'll be the season for it, soon," she says. Summer seems to be lingering a bit, and she hasn't yet pulled out her heavier dresses or other winter layers. "I'll have to air it out."

She considers adding that she trusts Biffy's judgment as far as romantic partners go, and that she doesn't really think this Professor Lyall is in need of interrogation. But then she remembers how things went with Dorian, and wonders if the ostensible compliment might come across as more back-handed than she'd intend it. Instead, she says, "I wouldn't be too hard on him. Just enough to make sure he's not trifling with you."