The night air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the promise of an approaching storm. Warm breeze filled the air as Ria, cloaked in a simple woolen dress, made her way to the garden.
She had promised to see Reagan earlier and she didn't want to keep him waiting.
She had thought about the possible outcome of their meeting tonight and had already crafted a polite refusal for whatever proposal he might bring.
She didn't think she was ready for any emotional involvement at the moment. The scars of her heartbreak with Kellan were still raw, and the mere thought of romantic entanglements filled her with a bone-deep weariness.
Speaking of Kellan - The loud cry of a twig snapped behind her, causing her to freeze instantly. She noticed she wasn't alone, and it scared her.
She spun ar
