Chapter 22

“Fireflies,” Henri whispered.

The forest was alive with the sounds of hidden night birds and insects humming in the gentle breeze. The canopy of the trees swayed and leaves fell like rose petals at a royal coronation. Cosimo released Henri, but Henri’s hand kept extended for a moment, an autumn leaf balancing on the edge of a branch before plummeting down.

He dropped it and stared at the Italian.

Alix was right, this man was a tower. When he stood still, he could’ve been a dogwood’s shadow. Henri couldn’t help but lose him among the trees. Almost. The Italian faced the heavens, examining the skies.