Ivan came running the moment he saw Sienna-Rose returning from her long trip. His figure darted across the garden path, kicking up dry leaves and dust as he sprinted toward her.
His clothes were torn and stained with mud, and the heavy, metallic scent of monster blood clung to him. His hair stuck in uneven clumps, and his boots left a trail of grime with every step.
"Ivan, wait!" Olivia called out sharply, moving from the veranda and trying to grab him before he reached Sienna-Rose. Her eyes widened in mild panic. "You're filthy! You smell like the forest!"
Everyone in the Miller estate knew how much Sienna-Rose hated filth. She had made it a rule for all the workers to bathe at least once a day. She couldn't stand grime, disorder, or anything that carried the scent of rot.
Even the stables for the animals were cleaner than most kitchens the villagers owned. Olivia knew this better than anyone, and for a moment she was sure her wife would stop Ivan with a glare.
