He promised to show her Eden.
A three hour hike through the beautiful moss covered oaks, low grass, and shady groves of fern led them to a waterfall that feathered its way 30 feet down into a large pool. On their way to the water they passed the remains of the old farm house, abandoned so long ago the wood had turned to dust, and walked through the small apple orchard now gone wild. She raced past him and dove into the water without hesitation.
“Isn’t it cold?” he asked.
“Yes!” she gasped, laughing. “It’s wonderful!”
He took off his shoes and socks, then waded into the chilly water. She swam up to him with a bundle in her hand, and tossed it dripping onto a sunlit bolder. She smiled at the look on his face.
“Was that all your clothes?” he asked.
“Well,” she said, “isn’t Eden clothing-optional?”
“Yes,” he said, grinning. “Yes it is.” He undid the front of his pants, and let them drop.
Above, a snake slithered through the branches of an apple tree, pausing to look down at them and flick its tongue.
