Exton

Star heads for the stairs and Keon kisses Cassie's fingertips.

"May I escort you home?"

Cassie nods and Keon gets their coats. After stepping outside, Keon pauses. He looks at the shadows, a puzzled look on his face.

"I don't suppose you came by car?"

Cassie laughs, shaking her head. "I don't think you will be able to ride in that beautiful dress. Would you like to take a walk with me?"

"Where are we going?"

Keon smiles, "To your home, beautiful Cassandra. I promise, it won't be a long walk."

He takes her hand, leading her around the corner. He utters a few words and steps into the shadow. Cassie feels a tingle and the brushing of something against her skin. In moments they are standing on a forest path. The trees are beautiful, glimmering in the twilight.

"Where are we Keon?" Cassie looks around, gazing at the alien woods.

"This is the Shadow Paths. It is outside of Faery, bound more in the Human Realm. We can walk here for a short time and emerge from the Shadows near your home. Think of the area around your boat, Cassie."

She closes her eyes, brow wrinkling. Keon murmurs again and a silver thread seems to glow on the ground.

"We are the only ones who can see that thread. It will show us where to turn and step from the Shadows."

He smiles and kisses her hand again, tugging her along the path. The line soon makes an angle and they find themselves standing before a tall hedge. The brambles part as they approach and there is her houseboat, behind a sheer veiling. Keon pushes through. Cassie, stumbling across the threshold, is caught in his arms. He looks into her eyes and pulls her closer, his lips caressing her neck.

"Your earrings are as clear as if they were in water... "