She had fallen, and her frailty was evident in the way she struggled to move. James rushed to her side, his concern for her outweighing his fear. “Are you okay?” he asked, his voice full of worry. The woman’s eyes opened slowly, and she blinked up at him, surprised by his sudden appearance.
“I have twisted my ankle,” she whispered, her voice fragile. James immediately helped her to a sitting position, supporting her as she leaned back in a nearby chair. “Thank you, child,” she murmured, gratitude in her voice. James couldn’t help but stare at her in shock. This wasn’t the terrifying figure he had imagined at all.