Golden eyes blinked as he inhaled deeply, attempting to drag the scent of citrus and honey back into his lungs.

The loss was stifling.

Even when the well had stolen her away, there had still been traces of her in the village—lingering moments in time that never let him forget her existence.

But now there was nothing.

Shock gave way to a tidal wave of rage, his mind unable to comprehend that she still sat in front of him. Markings became jagged as a growl was ripped from his soul, drowning out all other sounds in the peaceful haven they'd escaped to.