"Guys!" he called. "You won't believe what—"
He stopped.
Mid-step.
Damon saw Miss Leana looking at him like she was silently screaming.
Saw Daveon's grin fighting for its life.
Saw Celeste's eyes wide like moons.
Then he saw Anaya.
Standing stiff.
Between her?
And his father.
And his aunt.
Damon's expression didn't change.
But inside, every red flag his instincts had ever developed unfurled at once.
His mouth opened.
Paused.
Then slowly shut.
He lowered the bag of gold to the bench beside him like it might explode.
Then said, voice very level. "…You've met."
"Indeed," Lord Terrace said smoothly. "Your young lady just introduced herself."
Damon nodded once. "Yep. She's the one."
He turned to Anaya.
"You good?"
"I'm fine," she said quietly. "Are you?"
"We'll find out."
Lady Reyla smiled faintly. "You didn't think we'd skip your trials, did you?"
"I thought you'd send a report request. Maybe an assistant."
