Both hands lifted, resting lightly against her chest. Though it was only a fleeting perception, Esther could not stop herself from imagining that Gaara might have truly trusted her. The thought alone sent warmth spreading through her entire being, filling every corner of her heart with a quiet delight. A smile appeared on her lips as her mind began to drift higher, perhaps too high, daring to reach the edge of fantasy.

Gaara and Esther.

It sounded almost right, didn’t it?

But suddenly, ...