Reentering the village center, I find it alive with people, mostly women.  They are talking, laughing, sharing stories at the well, mending, chasing children or mixing dough for bread. I smile. They nod back. Passing by them I disappear into the guest house near the east side of the town.

Oh, it feels good to be alone again. There have been so many new experiences I am unable to assimilate them all. I must rest and try to listen to my inner spirit and see what I am to do. It is rather alarming to feel my body’s reaction to Manton. How can I be so strongly drawn to a stranger? Is he a stranger? Perhaps we met in another life? He makes me feel more alive than anyone ever before. Is this love? Rhiannon had spoken of love. “You cannot force love. You must let love come to you…” I was taken unawares by Manton. I quiver remembering his touch…his kiss.

ZARDA is Book 1 in the Journey series.  It is available to buy on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and BookBaby as a paperback or ebook.

Thanks for reading!