[POV: Solenne]
After returning from his delivery, they set off once again.
The snow deepened as they followed the narrow path down the ridge, boots crunching through ice-crusted drifts. Emric didn't speak for a while, content to let the silence stretch between them, but Solenne noticed how often his eyes drifted toward her.
It almost felt like he was throwing her suspicious glances, but it was different. His gaze wasn't judgmental, just… assessing.
Emric finally spoke again when they reached a slight bend in the trail, where the trees thinned and the view stretched toward the lowlands.
"Haleford's a strange place to settle," he said idly. "Most folks don't choose it unless they were born here or have nowhere better to go."
Solenne said nothing, her hands remaining tucked neatly in her coat pockets.
Emric continued, tone still easy. "You from here?"
She shook her head.
