Chapter 2
When the cottage came into view, Pippa stepped from the path and walked the perimeter of the yard, keeping well inside the tree line. Seven years was a long time, and the magical curtain that shrouded the cottage from prying eyes had grown thin. That she could see the dwelling so clearly shot fear into her heart.
But then only Miven could weave such an enchantment. That the curtain remained, no matter how threadbare the magic, was a testament to his skill. Even a well-maintained shroud could develop holes. That was how she had discovered the cottage in the first place, all those years ago.
With fingertips, she inspected the curtain. The magic held in places, but if any of the prince’s men had an ounce of curiosity, they’d spot the stone path, the tree-stump table set for three
