'Close your eyes,' he commanded.
'Damon, come on. Let's just get on with this.'
'Please, Amalie. Let me lead your horse. I promise it will be safe.'
Amalie indulged him as this was likely the last time they would be together. Closing her eyes, she held on to the front of her saddle, allowing Damon to escort her round the bend. Once her mount came to a stop, she waited a moment, listening to the birds chirp in the trees, before gazing on the scene her brother presented.
'Ta-dah.' He swept his arm out, encouraging her to take it all in.
She gasped with audible surprise. Damon had been right; the cottage was perfect. With its thatched roof and whitewashed walls, the two-storey dwelling was perhaps better described as a house. Nestled in behind was a stable and barn and, was that an orchard?