Carol stood on the balcony of Pine Needle Resort and stared at the horizon, at the red and pink and bruising purple of the sun setting beyond the sea.
The perfume of blooming flowers wafted from the garden below, the string of soft music escaped from the open lounge, along with laughter and snatches of conversations. A soft breeze played with her unbound hair, set the trees at the edge of the lot to sway.
Her chest was tight, her heart full. She had no idea contentment could be found just by standing and enjoying what one’s five senses provided.
Behind her, a door opened, then shut softly. Her whole body tensed with excitement and adrenaline. She didn"t need to turn to see who it was. Her heart beat hard, fast, somewhat painfully. She’d have sworn she could hear it beep too. Frowning, s
