She focused instead on Mara’s light chatter. But she couldn’t ignore the way the veteran occasionally watched her—respectfully, gently, studying without intruding. His expression held a mix of astonishment and restraint, as if he were piecing together something he hadn’t expected.
Elise felt the veteran’s gaze drift toward her necklace again. She almost heard him making up his mind and guessed the question before it popped out of his mouth. After a long moment, he cleared his throat softly. “May I ask… that beautiful pendant you’re wearing—does it have a story behind it?” His voice carried quiet hesitation.