For The Girl

Even still, seeing the humor as it spread across his expression could cause her breath to catch in her throat. She couldn’t help her dismissive amusement- rolling her eyes at Caedes in response out of reflex. But even she couldn't disguise the smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. The thought of meeting one of Caedes' relatives was both alluring and daunting, but she was eager to make a good impression. "If she's important to you, then she's important to me," Mariah said lightly, her grin tightening as she conveyed her acceptance.

As Caedes disappeared into the underbrush, his figure fading into the lush greenery with a fluid grace- her heart fluttered with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension as she watched him go, the touch of his lips on her neck still lingering like a warm brand. The coolness of the forest enveloped her, but she welcomed it, taking in deep breaths of fresh pine and the earthy dampness that surrounded her. As she stepped into the clearing, her senses were alive with the sights and sounds of nature, and her heart pounded in her chest - a strange mix of fear and excitement coursing through her veins like electricity.

"Mariah Mendacium"