Snowflakes were gently cascading down from the gray sky, blanketing the lands surrounding the Everton fortress. Winter had arrived prematurely, catching everyone off guard. Yet Sterling couldn't help but see a silver lining in this unexpected twist of fate. The delicate snowfall created a picturesque scene, a sight that warmed his heart.
The prevailing breeze was crisp, carrying with it the faint scent of winter and anticipation. Sterling could feel the cold against his skin, even inside the protection of the carriage, causing him to remove his cloak and bundle Faye in its luxurious fur lining. He could see her body trembling.
The Duke knew that this early winter meant that the wheat crop would be ready sooner than expected. A small blessing amidst the chilly chaos of the past few days. It was good news.
