Modric’s POV
Mary Ann arrived at the western entrance shortly after sunrise.
I had been waiting for almost twenty minutes.
Not because she was late.
Because I did not trust myself to arrive after her and risk making her think I had forgotten.
The forest beyond Ironclaw was still covered in pale morning mist. Dew clung to the grass, and sunlight filtered slowly through the tall trees.
Mary Ann wore dark walking trousers, a loose cream shirt, and a light cloak over her shoulders. Her hair had been tied back, though several curls had already escaped around her face.
She looked toward me.
“You are early.”
“So are you.”
“I arrived at the time we agreed.”
“Yes.”
“Then I am not early.”
I almost smiled.
“You are right.”
Her eyes narrowed slightly, as though she was still becoming ac
