Morning came first with the crisp chirping of birds, then with the gentle stream of sunlight brushing her flushed face.
Mary stirred. Her eyelids fluttered open, and the first thing she saw was a shadow moving around her bed. For a moment, she thought it was McKenna. Her heart fluttered, until she realized it was just a brown-haired maid, quietly arranging the sheets.
"Good morning, my lady," the maid said with a cheerful smile, bowing politely. "Your fever has eased. That's good news."
Good news?
Mary blinked, adjusting to the light. Her thoughts went to McKenna. He had been here last night. He had stayed at her side. She remembered his warmth, his scent lingering beside her.
And then... he had left. She hadn't stopped him.
Her brows creased. "My husband...?"
The maid straightened. "Oh, no one has seen him this morning, my lady. He might be in the study... or still resting. No servant is allowed into his room, so no one knows if he's awake yet."
