They remained seated together on the smooth fallen log while sunlight shifted slowly across the slope. The air up here was cooler and sharper carrying the scent of pine resin and dry earth mixed with the faint sweetness of wild blossoms scattered among the grass. Elias kept hold of Mara’s hand as if it were the most natural thing in the world. The hesitation he had once carried in every gesture had all but faded away replaced by a steady ease that suited him perfectly.
Mara looked out across the layers of hill and valley spread below them. “I come here to remember how things grow over long stretches of time. Down in the shop everything feels close and detailed. Up here you can see the whole shape of things. I think you have begun to see your own life this way too. Not just moment by momen
