Daren lay on the ground, his body tied in a hard knot of tree roots and scraps of cloth. His breathing was heavy, but a smile graced his face like someone enjoying a game.
Footsteps stomped on the ground. Bella emerged from behind a bush, her eyes wild, her hair a mess, and her body full of dust and twig scratches.
As soon as she saw Daren's face, Bella rushed over and grabbed his hair. "Where's Adora and Eric?!"
Daren just grinned, though he choked a little on Bella's tug. "Gosh, long time no see, Bella."
Plak!
Bella's slap was hard and unstoppable. Daren looked away, blood dripping down his lips, but he still smiled with satisfaction.
"No need to be so rude. I'm just playing with them," he said casually. "They're cute. Especially Adora. Her eyes, full of fear. It's refreshing."
"
