Mary's face and ears were bright red as she stepped out of McKenna's room. She had wanted to stay longer, but he was right about breakfast, even her stomach gave a loud rumble.
As she walked through the corridor, now lit with morning light, she took in the fine walls and paintings. They still looked new, untouched by time. Most were of men in cloaks, and their gazes seemed to follow her wherever she moved. She quickly looked away.
Unlike before, she wasn't afraid. Not really. This time, she was more intrigued than anything else.
Suddenly, footsteps echoed ahead. She looked up and saw Gwen hurrying toward her. The moment the maid spotted her, a flash of relief crossed her face. She bowed quickly.
"Thank heavens, my lady. We feared you were lost. No one knew where you'd gone."
Mary blinked at her. She hadn't expected the maid to check on her so early in the morning. What was the rush about?
"Well, I was with—"
