Chapter Sixteen

A dragon's maw of heat and flame raged down the hillside, winding across the forest in search of sustenance. Flames wound around ancient trees like long lost lovers searching for release. The fire engulfed it all, never satisfied, never satiated, never finding peace.

***

I stepped out of my car, careful not to trip on my heels. Since Andrew was taking the time to cook me dinner, I decided I would surprise him and dress up. I had on my favorite black dress with a flared skirt and short purple heels. I even curled my hair and put makeup on. I had put his reaction at the grocery store out of my mind. If I never brought it up, it was never going to come up. Besides, I told myself, Andrew would never do that to me. I was nearly to the door when Andrew opened it wearing his mother's apron.

"You look amazing," he said appreciatively as I walked through the door. I could feel him eyeing me up and down. I did a little turn, posing like a model at the end. He laughed and clapped his hands.

"So,