A moment later a pair of flowered pajamas were thrust inside the bathroom door. When Kitty came out arrayed in the sleeping garments two sizes too large for her, Hazel had the cover already turned down on the bed.
“You hop right in, and I’ll tuck you up for the night.”
“You’re an angel to let me rest here.”
“It’s a privilege. The hospital will be jammed tonight.”
“I won’t feel easy till Billy and Jane are safely in. Where do you suppose they’ll sleep?”
“Your father is having a cot put in his own room for Billy. Jane will sleep in the maids’ quarters. They’re putting up cots in the recreation room and library for other people. Everyone on the island has been ordered to take refuge in the larger buildings. They say none of the cottages will be safe by morning.”
“There’ll be lots for the Canteen workers to do after this.”
“So you’d better stretch out there and get some sleep. But first drink this warm milk I brought you. Your father said you’d had no supper.”
Kitty’s heart swelled with gratitude. “You’re a dear, Hazel. I love you very much.”
Hazel suddenly put down the cup of milk and sat on the side of the bed, catching Kitty’s hands in hers. “And I love you very much, too, darling. It’ll be wonderful to have a daughter like you.”