Page 39 of The Immortal’s Mark

Whereas other tourists focus their attention on the recovered mosaics or statues, Darcie spends a significant amount of time assessing the structural columns and foundations.

Her interest in architecture is obvious. The two of us maintain a decent conversation about the artifacts and structure around us, but I am more than happy to stand back and simply be in her presence.

When the sun reaches its peak, beads of sweat form on Darcie’s forehead. She stands up from her latest surveying stance and wipes the moisture away.

“Ready to go?” I ask, even though the idea of going our separate ways is agonizing.

“Actually…” She gives me a sheepish grin. “Do you mind if we go inside the gift shop? I want to look for a souvenir.”

“Of course not. Lead the way.”

I follow her toward the small building, mesmerized by the sway of her ponytail. The long yellow hair shines in the sunlight. I yearn to reach out and touch the smooth strands.

Enough!

Pull yourself together.

By the time we enter the souvenir shop, I have gained control of myself.

My soul vehemently opposes my restraint, but I refuse to listen to the instinctual part of myself.

It will do more harm than good.

All I want is the chance to get to know Darcie, and I will only permit myself one day to do so.

So, why not make the most of it?

Darcie faces me, pulling me out of my thoughts. “What should I get?”

“Hm…” I move closer to her and pretend to observe the rows of tacky keychains.

My eyes land on one that is a miniature of the Parthenon.

“This one.” I point to the keychain.

Darcie reaches out and grins. “Good choice.”

I step aside as she moves to purchase the trinket.

Surprise hits me as Darcie converses in Greek with the shop employee. Her accent is a little off, but her grammar is flawless.

When she returns, I lift my brows. “You speak Greek?”

“A little.”

“That sounded like more than a little.”

She shrugs. “I’ve been in the country for a while. I thought it would be a good idea to learn.”

With every new thing I learn about Darcie, my admiration and interest continue to grow.

I play a dangerous game by staying around her. With regret, I acknowledge I need to make my exit before I make a mistake I cannot take back.

Dragging my fingers through my hair, I say, “I just remembered that a friend is expecting me in the city within the hour. I completely lost track of time.”

“Oh.” She doesn’t hide her disappointment. “Okay. Well…thank you again for the ticket.”

“Of course.” My eyes flitter over her face. I want to remember every single detail down to the last sun-kissed freckle. “It was nice to meet you.”