Regret Came Too Late

The man was always like this-constantly pulling strings behind the scenes, grinding the gears of others.

It was no wonder no one liked him.

...

While things were tense on one side, Grace had already walked about half a mile along the narrow path.

The farther she went, the stronger the scent of magnolia blossoms became.

The snow was falling heavier by the minute, and she regretted not bringing an umbrella. After walking another thousand feet or so, she finally reached a flat clearing.

There, she saw the magnolia blossoms. They were even more beautiful than the ones she had seen beside the ruins.

She quickened her pace, planning to snap a few branches and leave. She had decided to bring some ancient calligraphy and paintings tomorrow morning to offer for the trade.

But just as her hand touched a branch, she heard the sound of footsteps- someone walking on snow.

The path lights dimmed. When she saw the familiar figure approaching, she was a little surprised.

"Ed?"

The man walked up and broke off several tall branches taller than she was-and placed them in front of her.

Grace felt like the snow had blurred her vision. She raised her hand to brush the flakes from her lashes.

"Why are you here?" she asked.

"I followed you. You passed by my house and didn't even stop to see me. Who are you picking flowers for?"

She was screwed.

He was jealous—and when he got like this, she knew she'd have to work hard

places, did she have

myself. I remember you like them too. Let's pick

it off, she quickly took the branches

help with

his hand and brushed the top of

"Liar."

so, he picked a large bunch and asked, "Is that

to take too many. She was worried

enough. Let's hurry

dozen or so branches, she started walking down,

reach back

only gone a few steps

panicked and crouched

Where does it

made her

the

grabbed h reached for her

wrist.

burning hot. He cupped her

her arms might scratch him, Grace hurriedly threw all the flowers

When she turned her head away, her voice was low

I taste blood? Are you hurt?" she

answer. Instead, he

in her palm. She quickly

hand to break off