The mist caressed Jack, embracing him with its musty scent as layers of moisture seeped into clothing. The coolness sank into his muscles sending them into spasms of protest against the further strain of his search. The twisted trees thickened as he entered an area of small knolls and hollows. Climbing the embankment, Jack followed an unknown path, not thinking, only searching. The trees grew sparse, revealing a small glen carpeted with tall grass. The moon broke through the thin layer of clouds to reveal a white fog laying low along the length of the glen. The silence of the forest gave way to the songs of its creatures. Jack realized his search had ended.
In the center of the flowing grass, Nicole stood, swaying to the music of the forest. Jack stood at the edge of the glen, frozen at the sight of the dark nymph dancing in the pale light. Her movements, subtle at first, changed to a graceful array of swirling limbs as she moved slowly across the glen. She danced as if making love to the darkness, offering her delicate talent to the gods of the night. Her long ebony hair swirled around her as their eyes met. Jack’s breath left him as her glowing emerald eyes searched his.
Silently, ceasing her dance of enchantment, she reached out a delicate arm toward him. Without hesitation, he crossed the glen and took her in his arms. Her kiss burned like fire, he pulled back, uncertain. What was the magic she held over him? Since the first time, Tom brought her to their apartment. Jack was mesmerized. As Tom and Nicole grew closer, Jack found himself avoiding the apartment. Finally, he got his own place hoping the distance would lessen his attraction to his best friend’s girl. It didn’t work, nothing could relieve the fever he held for her. She gazed up at Jack, her eyes compelling him back toward her. They fell into the mist as their lips met, oblivious to all that surrounded them.