From where he lay sprawled upon the chestnut tree, he watched her approach. Even from a distance, he could still see the swelling on her cheek.
And the closer she came, the more vivid it became.
Perhaps I should have prolonged his suffering.
She reached his cottage and went straight to his garden first, her gaze drifting around as she made her way to the back. Not finding him, she circled back to the front and knocked.
"Zuri," she called, peering through the window.
"Zuri!" she called again, louder. After peering through every window, she stood in front of the cottage with her hands upon her hips.
Then suddenly—her head lifted.
Her gaze found him instantly.
Her hands slowly fell to her sides as she let out a quiet sigh.
With her head tilted back and her eyes focused on him, a soft smile touched her lips—and even the bruise upon her cheek could not diminish her beauty.
