Micah slipped out of the grand banquet hall with a slow exhale, the heavy doors quietly closing behind him. The warm lighting and the chatter faded as he stepped into the cool night air. For a moment, he thought he could finally be alone. He had only taken one step down the stone path, just one, when a sharp voice rang out.
"Who's there?!"
Micah stopped mid-step and turned around. Under the tall garden tree stood a striking woman in a red gown. Her figure was highlighted by the curve-hugging fabric, and her bright red hair tumbled down her shoulders in deliberate waves. She leaned lightly against the trunk, her posture graceful but oddly posed.
Micah looked at her questioningly. He didn't recognise her. Was she a distant relative? A family friend? Or business partner? She looked vaguely familiar, but he couldn't place her.
