The ancient forest loomed like a cathedral of nature—towering trees with leaves like emerald flames, moss-covered stones whispering secrets of centuries long past. Every step of the wagon seemed like an intrusion into a sacred place.
Asha sat beside Jon at the front of the wagon. Her hand subconsciously rested on her stomach, but her gaze stayed on him. The moonlight caught the hard lines of his jaw, the steady grip of his hands on the reins, the quiet alertness in his eyes.
Asha (softly):
"You're different, Jon."
Jon (without turning):
"Different how?"
Asha:
"Kind. Strong. But also lonely."
He glanced at her, one eyebrow raised.
Jon:
"Takes one to know one."
She smiled faintly, then looked down at her lap.
Asha:
"I never thought… after losing my husband… that I'd want to stay by someone's side again. But with you… it feels safe. Even in a place like this."
Jon looked at her for a long moment, then turned his eyes forward again.
Jon (quietly):
"Let's get you home first. We'll talk about the rest later."
---
That night, while camped beneath a massive spirit tree with glowing leaves, Asha leaned against him, drifting to sleep beside the fire. Jon stayed awake, watching the shadows.
But even he could feel it now—the subtle shift in the air.
They were being watched.