layer of dust is a patch of honey-colored skin that’s as flawless as still water. I try sweeping the wild curls away from her drawn face, but it takes several more attempts before they finally agree to stay away. The unfortunate result is a much better look at the fear locked in her eyes. They appear heavy and sunken, as if the weight of the world might be carried behind those shiny sapphire disks.

After this comes an unexpected calmness, like a wide valley between two rising waves. There’s a wonderful serenity that comes from sitting side by side while not expecting anything more than silent understanding from one other. Time passes and we don’t say another word.

We don’t have to.

She’s noticeably anxious at first. Her feet begin tapping at a frantic pace befo...

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