11
Stars filled the night sky all around Zaviana. She lay alone on the grass, staring up at them. They were always much brighter in the winter when they only saw the red sun. Zaviana had eluded Derkas for one day, but she didn’t know how much longer she’d be able to avoid him. She knew she was close to Whistauf and her last destination before fleeing to the mountains. Zaviana hoped she’d be able to make it in time. Derkas wasn’t slow; she remembered that. A part of her, a part she hadn’t known’ existed, missed him—his touch, his concern for her, and his watchful eye. She didn’t know what was wrong with her. Zaviana had every right to hate him. He’d kidnapped her, taken her against her will. Yes, he did it out of concern for her … and that was sweet … but she was missing the point. He was
