Two Eyes Cenote Dear Arkansas Daughter

No one saw me.

I should have known if anyone was going to find me, it would be you, Machi said softly, his voice holding a note of amused resignation. The corners of his mouth curled into a small smile, a sigh of relief escaping his lips. The shadows receded from his face as he spoke, revealing a touch of weariness that seemed to be near constant as of late.

I can't say I'm not glad of it, however, he continued, his eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. I've been rather hard-pressed for company in recent weeks. His voice took on a more wistful tone, betraying a loneliness he rarely admitted, even to himself. I almost miss the prison, he joked, a half chuckle trickling from his maw.

Her gaze had wandered to the container, and he followed it, holding up the small shell for her to see. Here, he said, tilting it gently towards her, revealing the crushed ruby pigment inside. The vibrant red shimmered under the fractured light, a stark contrast to the dull, earthy tones around them. Makeup, he explained, placing the container carefully on top of a large stone, ensuring it was out of the way and wouldn’t be knocked over again.

No, it doesn't, Machi concurred, I'm not sure if it agrees with the soil. He glanced back at Safiya, his opal eyes searching hers with sparked curiosity. Do you enjoy gardening?