Serena blew on the steam that rose from her cup, then sneezed abruptly. The sound startled the robin perched just outside the window, and she looked up just in time to see it flutter into the distance, its wings catching the late golden hue of evening. A small smile tugged at her lips as she returned her gaze to the tea in her hands, letting the warmth of the cup seep into her fingers.
She'd skipped dinner. Her stomach wasn't in the mood for anything heavy, and truthfully, she welcomed the quiet. This wing of the castle, tucked away past the southern hall, was quieter, and less occupied. Darius had said it would be best to meet Annamarie here. This side had fewer eyes, ever since the guest had arrived there had been so many new faces in the castle now.
And she had appreciated his suggestion.
