She took a breath too and turned back around. There was a little chopping left to do but once that was done she dropped things in the pot to boil, slowly, as he directed. Including the spices. Last of all the milk. She picked up the spoon she'd seen him use last time and stirred it. The cheese was already melting! She was actually COOKING! 

She smiled a little and turned back to him. At his words, she paused for a second and then said, "No. It was fine." She wiped her face as if she was sweating and poured some water for both of them and even for Humphrey. She crouched on the floor to give it to him and pat his head.

"I had several hunting dogs at the castle," she said, folding her arms on top of her bent knees. "This little guy reminds me of them a lot." She patted him one more time and stood up.