Seara took a tentative step forward, her eyes filling with moisture. “It’s true. I never wanted to believe you had been killed, but…” Her voice trailed off.
Kayla bit her lip and turned to Veridian in a panic. He stepped forward to intervene. “It’s nice to meet you, Mistress Seara Rath’Varein.”
Kayla peered around him and watched the woman wipe her eyes, giving a nervous laugh. “I’m sorry. I kept telling myself not to make a spectacle, but you know what they say about good intentions. Please, call me Seara. There’s no need to be formal.”
“Thank you, Seara,” Veridian said politely. “I imagine this must be shocking to you.”
She gave him an appreciative smile. “Please, all of you, have a seat. I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable, Kayla.”
Following Veridian’s lead, Kayla took a seat nex
