Claire shook her head, about to answer, when her eyes caught someone who seemed to be observing them. Seeing Claire's weak condition, Paisley hesitated but then approached cautiously.
"Are you alright?" Paisley asked, her voice low but laced with concern.
Matilda quickly turned, grabbing Claire's arm and narrowing her eyes at Paisley. "Who are you? What do you want?"
Paisley raised her hands slightly, offering a small, nervous smile. "I live in the village. I just… I saw she looked unwell and thought maybe I could help."
Matilda studied her for a moment before huffing, "She doesn't need any help. We're just gathering herbs. Mind your business."
But Claire seized the opportunity. "Please… just some water," she murmured, trying to appear more vulnerable than she felt.
Paisley glanced at Matilda, then at Claire, her brow furrowing in concern. "I can bring her some water from the well; it's just nearby."
