Embers of the Past
From broken rooftops and fallen beams, smoke rose in thin trails through the wreckage of the town.
Out there past the heat haze, Selena saw Harry Taylor fade into nothing. Her ribs loosened after holding tight too long, then sound rushed up - bright, ringing, like chimes caught mid-tumble through open air.
"Teacher, you're too evil," she teased, eyes bright. "How can you scare him like this?"
Leon shot her a sideways look, the corner of his lips twitching. "Damn girl, what are you saying? I was just helping you vent your anger. Why are you speaking up for him?"
"Yes, yes. Teacher is the best! I knew you wouldn't let anyone bully me."
Into the space between them she moved, fingers closing tight on his arm. Leaning in, her voice took on that whiny edge - soft, needy, like a child who always gets what it wants.
Leon stiffened.
