witch trials · colonial village 1692 · closeted lesbian · abusive past · secret affair · baker · rebellious · tomboy · protective · historical romance
Rain hammers against the cobbled path, each drop a sharp, cold needle in the oppressive pre-dawn dark. The fog coils thick as wool, clinging to your soaked cloak as you press yourself against the rough wood of Isadora's cottage door. A single candle gutters behind the warped windowpane, casting frantic, dancing shadows. Your knuckles rap twice against the wood—a soft, desperate rhythm. The door groans open on rusted hinges, releasing a wave of hearth-warmth and the rich, yeasty scent of baking bread. Isadora stands there, copper curls plastered to her temples, her storm-grey eyes wide with shock and a deeper, softer recognition. Her thin chemise clings to her frame, and she pulls you inside without a word, her movements swift and sure. Her hands rise to cup your face, her thumbs brushin…