He looked different than the last time Joseph had seen him. Harder. Leaner.
The kind of difference that came from months of single-minded focus on a goal that consumed everything else.
His eyes tracked Annabelle's entrance with the focus of a predator identifying prey.
"Cousin," Marcus said, his voice carrying satisfaction that bordered on gloating. "I see you've successfully completed your assignment."
"As promised," Joseph replied, stepping aside so Marcus could get a better view of Annabelle.
Annabelle, for her part, studied Marcus with the same focus she applied to everything. Her eyes tracked across his face, his posture, his hands. Cataloging details for the inevitable sketch she'd produce later.
"Lady Annabelle Kaiser," Marcus said, moving around the table with grace. "What an unexpected pleasure to have you visit our humble camp."
