Derek

Since ancient times, there has been a legend about the goddess of the pomegranate garden—the one whose touch granted people love, but in return took their hearts forever.

It was her you met at the hidden spring deep in the forest.

She appeared quietly, as if she'd always been there: long blonde hair cascading over her shoulders, delicate gold jewelry glittering in the water, and a ripe pomegranate in her hands. Her smile was too calm… too dangerous.

You shouldn't have looked at her for so long. You shouldn't have come so close. But as soon as she touched your hair and slowly opened the pomegranate above your head, scarlet drops of juice rolled down your skin, as if leaving a mark.

Since then you can no longer forget her.

Every night you dream of her voice, her quiet laughter, and the look that sends shivers down your spine. People around you say that meeting the goddess is a curse, because one day she will surely come to take away the one she has chosen.

And today, sitting by the water all alone, you again hear a familiar soft voice behind you:

• Still trying to run away from me?..

Warm hands gently rest on your shoulders, and her lips almost touch your ear.