Page 10 - 2022 Tryst Sneak Peak 24

She looked to Jacob, still sleeping, and smiled
warmly, knowing it was he who was again saving her.
The breeze drew her inexplicably from the softness of his
bed. She kissed him gently on the cheek. Then, quietly,
she gathered herself up in a blanket and moved toward
the open window. The moon was full and pure white,
hanging in the sky like a candle in God's window, inviting
her out under the protective veil of night.

Silently, Karyn descended the stairs, pausing to
stroke a sleeping cat perched on the banister. As she
left the house and made her way down the dirt path,
she was awe-struck with the world's stillness. Every
creature slept, save the occasional songs of the crickets
and katydids. There was a wonderful aroma of pine,
hay, and wildflowers that filled her with a feeling of
serenity. It was like the comforting waft of hot cocoa on
a cold, winter Sunday morning. It brought her peace.
Still cloaked only in her cotton pajamas and a blanket,
she felt at one with the wood that surrounded her. Not
one ounce of insecurity or embarrassment entered her
soul. For the first time in her life, Karyn felt entirely at
ease. She stood for a few moments, entranced, gazing
up to the sky.

****

Gillian sighed contentedly as she recounted her
visit to the woods that night. Wondering what more
Thomas might retell for her, she picked up her cup and
returned to the kitchen for more tea. Achilles noticed
the change in her energy and wound himself around her
legs, purring magnificently. All was forgiven. She
stroked his panther fur and apologized gently. "Sorry,
Catman. I won't forget you again." After refilling her
tea, she returned to the letter, Achilles in her shadow.

Diana Kathryn Plopa 10 A Tryst of Fate