Anna finished getting ready and stepped out of the house, only to notice one of the guards speaking to a woman at the gate.
Her brows drew together in curiosity as she walked toward them.
"What happened?" she asked, immediately drawing both the guard's and the woman's attention.
Anna studied the woman for a few seconds. She didn't look like a beggar or someone with ill intent. In fact, she appeared well put together, though there was a hint of urgency in her posture.
"Madam," the guard said, turning to Anna, "this lady says she wants to meet Mariam."
He hesitated before adding, "But Madam Mariam isn't home."
Anna looked back at the woman. Now that she was paying closer attention, she noticed the desperation flicker across her face. The moment she heard Mariam wasn't home, her expression visibly fell.
Anna's instincts stirred.
"That's fine," she said calmly. "She can wait inside until Mariam returns."
The guard nodded in relief and stepped aside.
