The door opens slightly and a young woman, close to her age, appears through the crack. Her oceanic eyes widen with worry as she opens the door further. No sound is uttered between the two as she beckons Leah inside, quickly closing the door afterward.
Few words are exchanged as the woman and her husband begin to tend to their frightened guest. They give Leah blankets and offer her food, apologizing for their lack of necessities—as winter had been long and unforgiving. With a goodnight and a saddened look, the couple crept up the stairs, leaving her to her slumber.
Once they disappear, Leah reopens her eyes, a wide array of emotions swimming around. She carefully sits up and begins the process of removing her layers, for there rests a priceless body. The slow movement of its chest is evidence enough of its living condition.
She does not halt her sobs this time. Instead, she lets them engulf the noiseless home, her eyes never leaving the near lifeless figure. One last tear runs down her cheek as she strokes its forehead, and then she gives it a light kiss.
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