Before long, she found herself standing before a waiting carriage tucked deep within the shadows of a narrow, deserted alley.
The lantern at its side flickered faintly, casting unsteady light across the polished wood. The surroundings were quiet—too quiet—as though even the night itself conspired to keep this meeting unseen.
For a brief moment, she hesitated.
Then, gathering herself, she lifted the curtain and stepped inside.
"Lord Rhaegar," she said softly, her voice low enough to be swallowed by the enclosed space, "are you not afraid of being seen?"
Within the dim carriage, his figure sat at ease, yet there was nothing relaxed about his presence. His gaze lifted to meet hers—sharp, unwavering.
One brow arched slightly.
"You had the heart to leave me waiting in Firefly Lane," he replied coolly, his tone edged with quiet reproach. "Why should I not come to see you myself?"
The accusation lingered in the air.
