Sending Anne on her way had been rather absurdly difficult, and if it wasn't for Regan and Saoirse's impending arrivals, Greta isn't sure how she would've managed it. Not when the temptation to just cling to her for the rest of the bloody day was so strong.

But if this was a shock to her, it's... well, she supposes it's not impossible that Regan or Saoirse noticed something (though the idea that she really was the last person to figure it out is almost too mortifying to contemplate). But she also thinks (hopes) that there are decent odds that neither of them have really considered it, either. And, that being the case, it didn't seem fair to introduce them to the idea with Anne present — not fair to them or to Anne. They deserve to absorb the news without feeling outnumbered, and Anne deserves a more considered response than whatever immediate reaction the girls might have.

She's still not sure how to impart the news, though. How to lead into it aside from 'so, it turns out I've been hilariously stupid.' God.

At least she has some time to work on it; Regan's just coming inside, but Saoirse will be another hour. Greta sets down her cup of tea and leans over on the couch so she can see into the front hall, then gives Regan a little wave. "How was school?" she asks.