"Did your voyage prove to be fruitful?" Ned asks, tone still one of innocence and simple curiosity. He shakes his head, however, at her apology. "Please, there is nothing for which you need to be sorry. It seems that, even here in a village with no outside exposure, there are still things that keep us occupied and busy. I do promise, however, to make a more conscious effort to come and see you. Though I hope you know that my door is always open to you, too."

Ned's features begin to lighten to something more amused than scolding, and he no longer tries to hide the fact that he's well aware of the envelope.

"It is thriving, despite my fear of it failing to take root," he says, gaze shifting to the letter. "Might I ask what it is you are so intent on keeping secret?"