Chapter 57
As the sun dipped below the horizon, its fading light bathed the river in a deep crimson hue. A majestic maypole proudly stood on the riverbank, its base illuminated by the flickering bonfire’s glow. The flames danced over the small logs while men and women, their shoes soaked from the river, twirled and danced in pairs.
“Did you know that many people born in Thisse share birthdays that are very close to each other?” Damien asked.
“Yes, I was told that it’s because their parents became lovers during the Midsummer Festival.” Chloe was unable to feign ignorance as Marguerite had already explained the reason.
Damien smiled and extended his hand toward her. “Precisely. Passion is contagious.”
Chloe hesitated. A towering blaze flickered wildly behind Damien. She feared that if she took his hand, her world would be irrevocably altered, just as it had since she met him. Once she crossed this line, she would not be the same woman again.