The air smelled of pine and horses. Lara lay on the grass, her golden curls spread out around her. She was at her favorite spot by the river.
Thornak lay beside her, resting on one elbow, watching her with a steady gaze.
"You're staring," Lara said, turning her face away.
"I'm checking if the sun looks prettier on you or in the sky," he teased.
Her laugh slipped out before she could stop it. "That's the worst line I've ever heard!"
He leaned closer, grinning. "And yet, it worked—you're laughing."
She shoved his shoulder, still giggling. "You're ridiculous."
He pulled her closer.
"Stop," she said shyly, someone will see.
Thornak stood and walked toward the river. Lara sat up, frowning. "What are you doing?"
He scooped up water in his hands, looked at her with a wicked grin, and poured it straight over her hair.
"Thorn!" she cried, gasping at the icy splash. But then laughter burst out of her, light and bright.
He only grinned wider. "Refreshing?"
