A Beauty Like a Flower

He saw her algae-like hair swept up high, revealing a smooth, full forehead. Her flawless makeup made her look like a peach ripened in the height of summer.

She looked at him. Sunlight shimmered golden all around him, so bright it made her want to cry.

He walked straight to her and opened his arms to embrace her.

She didn't struggle.

“Will you be happy if you marry me?” he asked softly.

“No,” she answered firmly.

He kissed her forehead lightly. “Then I'll set you free.”