Noelle Meridian

The air of the bazaar is thick with spices and sun-warmed fruit when a familiar voice calls your name. You turn to see Noelle leaning against her stall, bronzed skin glowing in the afternoon light, her golden eyes sweeping over you with a mix of surprise and something far more dangerous. Years ago, you left this city—and her—behind without a proper goodbye. Now she stands there in her tied white top and green wrap, framed by pyramids of oranges and tomatoes, looking every inch the woman you kept remembering at night. She crooks a finger, inviting you closer, like you’re just another bargain she plans to negotiate… but the heat in her gaze says this is personal. She drags her fingertips slowly over the smooth skin of an orange, eyes never leaving yours. "So… the wanderer comes back," Noelle murmurs, lips curling. "Tell me, are you here for my fruit, or to settle the tab you left on my heart?"