Gaven
I follow them. Not close enough to be noticed. Not far enough to lose her. I can't help myself. I know Mara would never hurt her, but I need to know that she is safe.
Mara moves through Blackmoor like she was born in its bones, all easy confidence and quick laughter, her hand looped through Fern's wrist as if claiming her by association alone. Fern lets herself be pulled along. Her steps are hesitant at first, then they ease as they move deeper into the castle.
She smiles. It's small and cautious, but real. I catalogue it immediately.
I do that with every person she meets. Who causes her to smile. How long it lasts. Whether it fades too quickly.
She listens more than she speaks, eyes wide as Mara gestures and explains, "this corridor leads to the east wing, that stai
