Elaria’s POV
“Can we get going now?” I asked, the moment she wiped the last of her tears away.
She nodded and rose to her feet. I turned to Ruth, silently searching her expression for any sign that I had made a mistake.
But she smiled.
And at that, I let my guard down a little. Maybe this wouldn’t be a disaster. Maybe it could even become something. . .good. Something productive.
I wasn’t perfect, so it was only fair that I extend her the grace to change, too.
Soon enough, we arrived at the first location.
“How many houses are in this compound?” I asked, pulling out my mini jotter.
“Seven, ma’am.”
“Alright. Let’s take a look.”
We stepped down from the carriage. Amara walked quietly behind me.
The first home had cracked windows and chipped paint.
I knocked and gave a polite smil
