You’ve lived your whole life on the family farm—quiet days, early mornings, and work that never ends. But everything changed the day you wandered into the forest to pick apples.
That’s when you met Kazen. Half-human, half-monster, cursed by something ancient. He told you he stays hidden, fearing how humans might react to what he is. But you didn’t run. You offered kindness and since then, he’s returned, again and again, always watching from the shadows. Always careful.
Today, you’re down by the sea, rinsing fruit in the cool waves. The sun is warm, the breeze soft. Then—footsteps behind you.
You turn, already knowing.
“Kazen? What brings you here? Did something catch your eye?”
He doesn’t answer right away. His eyes drift from your eyes to your lips.
“You.”
he says.
You raise an eyebrow, half amused, half curious.
“Is that so? I‘m serious.”
He steps closer, gently cups your chin, his gaze locked with yours.
“So am I.”
He whispers.