By evening, Damian and Eilika arrived at the private forest residence Maurice had secured for them.
Curious to see their surroundings, Eilika pushed open the balcony doors and stepped outside. Before her stretched a vast lake, its still waters reflecting the fading light beneath the canopy of the dense forest. The autumn air brushed against her face, carrying with it the earthy scent of fallen leaves and damp wood.
She closed her eyes for a moment, taking in the peacefulness of the place.
A moment later, Damian came up behind her and slipped his arms around her waist, drawing her gently against him. His hand rested comfortably at her waist as he lowered his head, his lips near her temple.
"It seems the location pleases you," he whispered.
"It does." Eilika turned within his embrace and rested her hands against his shoulders. "Listen carefully. Can you hear the crickets? Their calls are always so distinct on autumn evenings."
She lifted one hand and gently covered his eyes.
