Like A Fallen Angel

At first, Xion wasn't sure if what he saw was reality or just an illusion. The girl standing near the open doors bore little resemblance to the freckled maid he had once called a friend.

But as soon as their eyes met, he knew.

"E-Eli…?" The words left his lips before he could think. His breath caught in his throat as Eli walked toward him, and for a brief moment, something flickered in her deep brown eyes.

Perhaps recognition. Or hesitation. But just as quickly, it was masked by a dazzling smile, so perfect it almost seemed unnatural.

"I knew you would be here, young master." Her voice was warm and gentle, yet it oddly made Xion's ears itch and not in a good way.

Xion took a step forward, his brows drawing together. That wasn't the way she used to smile.

There had been a time when Eli's laughter had been restrained with shyness, but it was bright, nonetheless. Her freckles used to dance across her cheeks in the sunlight whenever she grinned.