The kiss by the lake changed everything for Leah and Sath. As they walked their way back home, down the trail that evening, the forest felt different—alive, vibrant, buzzing with the energy of what had just happened. They didn't speak much, but held their hands as they walked side by side, which said more than words ever could.
By the time they reached Leah's house, the sun had dipped below the horizon, casting the Shadow Village in a soft, dusky glow. Leah gently pulled her hand away not wanting anyone to see them holding hands. The scent of dinner wafted from the small kitchen, and Leah's parents greeted them warmly. Leah tried to act normal, but her cheeks felt warm, and her pulse quickened whenever Sath caught her gaze.
The remaining days of their stay in the village that followed we
