Kiss

The hot water cascaded over Lucia's body, streaming down her back in soothing rivulets, washing away the tension that seemed to cling to her like a second skin.

She closed her eyes and tilted her head back, letting the spray soak her hair, which clung wet and heavy to her neck.

Her mind wandered as she massaged shampoo into her scalp, lathering it up until the scent of fresh citrus filled the air.

This was the first real moment of peace she'd had in a long time.

The sensation of the water felt good—calming, almost therapeutic.

Yet, even in this small sanctuary, a knot of confusion and unease rested in her chest. The events of the past few weeks played out in her mind.

The betrayals.

The torture.

The hate that had burned so strongly, still smoldering in her heart, was now strangely intermingled with something else—a growing unease, a sense of dissonance.