Raelynn blinked rapidly, her body stiff with unease as she stared at the unfamiliar woman seated casually on the couch. Her heart, still slightly drowsy from sleep, picked up its pace, and her fingers curled against the fabric of her dress. She hadn't heard the door open or sensed anyone coming in, yet here this woman was, sitting as if she belonged there.
She swallowed, then cautiously asked, "Who are you?"
The woman turned to her with a small, composed smile, her eyes gentle yet unreadable. With an effortless grace, she rose from her seat, smoothing out her neatly pressed blouse before taking a slow step forward.
"Oh, I'm sorry if I startled you." Her voice was light and polite, with a hint of amusement dancing in her tone. "I didn't mean to. Don't worry, I'm not a bad guy."
Raelynn stayed still, wary but listening.
The woman continued, "Mr. Vaelorian asked me to come to his office and accompany you while he's in the meeting."
