It surprised Reid that neither insisted she stay for another day. It was almost as if they didn’t mind her leaving—which didn’t make any sense. Unless, as Dexter pointed out, they had something to hide. But why would her grandparents withhold information from her? Didn’t they trust her?

“I want you both to know how sorry I am that I didn’t know you were alive until recently. Now that I’m living in Axian, I hope we can see one another frequently.”

“Your grandmother and I would like that,” Gregor answered. “You’re welcome here any time.”

Reid was about to say something when she caught sight of a painting on the wall behind her grandfather. Family portraits covered the entire space. However, one in particular stood out. It was a painting of a girl who looked to be about fourteen. “Is that my mother?”

Constance’s face went stark white.

“It is,” Gregor replied. “Now if you’re ready to leave, we’ll walk you out.”

Reid absently nodded as she stood. Instead of following her grandparents from the room, she went over to examine the portrait. The girl—her mother—looked vaguely familiar with her thick brown hair flowing around her shoulders. Her eyes stared directly at Reid, as if she knew a secret. Her mother wasn’t smiling, but the corners of her lips tilted slightly up, hinting at mischief. Searching the girl’s features, Reid tried to find similarities.

“Are you coming?” Gregor asked from the doorway.

“She’s beautiful.” If Reid had the time, she would spend all day staring at this portrait. Her father didn’t have a single one. Tears filled her eyes. “My oldest sister looks just like her.” She tilted her head to the side. “And so does Kamden.” They had the same nose.

“Lady Reid?” Dexter said. “My men are ready to go.”

Forcing herself away from the painting, she exited the room. Were there additional portraits of her mother in the manor? Would her grandparents give her one?

“Are you okay?” Dexter whispered.

She nodded.

He put his hand on the small of her back, escorting her out. In the entryway, Reid hugged her grandparents, bidding them farewell.

Outside, Dexter’s men waited, already mounted. Reid went over to her horse, attaching her bag. After climbing onto the saddle, she adjusted the reins. Her grandparents were framed in the doorway, and Reid studied them.

“I’m surprised you’re traveling with so few men,” Gregor said, addressing Dexter.

“It’ll allow us to travel faster. There’s no need to worry—I’ll protect your granddaughter.”

Gregor smiled. “I have no doubt you are more than capable of caring for Lady Reid. But please make sure to take care of yourself as well. Axian needs you.”

“I have four of my most skilled men with me,” he assured Gregor. “We’ll be fine.”