After finishing her meal, Seraphina pushed back her chair, her movements stiff and reluctant.
She glanced at Adolphus’s mother, who stood by the sink washing dishes, her kindness palpable in every gesture.
Seraphina swallowed her pride and mumbled, “Thank you for the food.”
His mother turned, her smile gentle and understanding. “You’re welcome, dear. You can always come back if you need anything.”
Seraphina gave a faint nod, clutching the bundle of clothes to her chest as she left.
The moment she stepped out of the house, she heard footsteps behind her. Adolphus was following, his strides long and casual, but his presence was anything but subtle.
She glanced over her shoulder. “Why are you following me?” she snapped, her voice laced with irritation.
“I want to make sure you don’t get lost,” he said smoothly, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Wouldn’t want you wandering into the woods and getting eaten.”