CHAPTER TWELVE
The sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting elongated shadows across the clearing where Jackson and I stand. The waterfall behind us hums a gentle lullaby, but its calm does little to soothe the flutters in my stomach. As much as I want to stay here, wrapped up in the mystery of the woods and the enigma that is Jackson, duty calls me back to the village.
"Jackson," I start, my voice hesitant, betraying my reluctance to leave. "I need to go."
He turns to me, his eyes reflecting the last rays of the dying light, a softness there that contradicts the wildness of his nature. "Already?" There's a hint of disappointment in his tone, but he masks it quickly with a playful grin. "Can't get enough of my charming company, Grace?"
I laugh, though it comes out more nervous than
