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Beyond the Bushes
#WritcoStoryPrompt2

A wet leaf fell on her shoulder making her jump in fear. Startled she shifted from her hiding place behind the bush and that's when she saw him. Standing mere feet away, his piercing eyes seemed to bore into her very soul. For a moment, they just stared at each other, the only sound the gentle rustling of leaves in the autumn breeze.

Ava's heart racing, she tried to step back, but her feet felt rooted to the spot. The stranger didn't move either, his gaze never wavering. She could see the faintest hint of a smile playing on his lips, as if he knew a secret she didn't.

Suddenly, he took a step closer, his movements eerily silent. Ava's mind screamed at her to run, but her legs wouldn't cooperate. She was trapped, frozen in fear.

And then, just as suddenly, he stopped. His eyes never leaving hers, he raised a hand and gently brushed the wet leaf from her shoulder. The touch sent shivers down her spine.

"You're trembling," he whispered, his voice low and husky. "What are you afraid of?"

Ava swallowed hard, trying to find her voice. But before she could answer, he turned and disappeared into the trees, leaving her shaken and wondering if she'd just imagined the whole encounter.



© Promise Okon