She unlatched the box and opened it gingerly. Around eight small vials filled with liquid were nestled into the box’s velvet. “What is this?” “Eight of the deadliest venoms this world has ever known,” I answered her. “I have friends in interesting places. I thought maybe you could use them in your research.” I leaned over her as we sat side by side, peering at the box’s contents. She looked like I’d given her a ring and gotten down on a knee. Delicate fingers traced over the vials in awe. Something in her eyes told me that she was taking in the moment.
