Hilda has been one of my favorite people to get to know here. She's lovely.

[ There's such a fondness for her already; a sort of reverse imprinting, perhaps.

When Claude asks about her statement, considering she's dealt with the fuckery of time, Claire really could have phrased her own statement better. It also involves some explanation. ]

Where I'm from—when I'm from—this home is a relic, over two hundred years old. Houses aren't made like this anymore.

[ Claire looks up at Lallybroch fondly and lightly presses her hand to the stone wall. ]

My husband's father built it, as a wedding gift when he first married.

[ No less confusing, but she decides to let Claude ask any questions he might have, rather than dump her entire life on him. At the tea consideration, she decides to go with something she's less familiar with. ]

Pine needle. I have an idea of what I'm getting into, but I'd like to try. I have more than one option, but my favorite right now is an Earl Grey with holy basil, rose petals, poppy, citrus peel, and lemon balm. I have a black tea, and a rooibos as well.