Ariyah's POV
Settlement - Market Day
The stares start the moment we enter the market.
I feel them on my back like cold fingers. They're not hostile, not yet. Just curious. But curiosity can turn to fear in a heartbeat. And fear is dangerous.
"Keep walking," Elara mutters beside me. "Don't give them anything to gossip about."
Lucian sleeps against my chest, warm and oblivious. His tiny hand is curled around a strand of my hair. I adjust the sling, pulling him closer, and continue toward the vegetable stall.
"Good morning, Ariyah." The merchant, a woman named Tess, smiles as I approach. "And how's the little one today?"
"He's fine. Sleeping through most of it, thankfully."
"He's a beautiful boy." Tess leans over to peek at Lucian's face. "Look at those eyes. So unusual."
I stiffen.
