Page 62 of Baited

My heart spins in my chest, squeezing because he is so darn cute, all dark feathers, dark eyes, and claws and yet desperate to make something for me.

“Then I had better see what you have done,” I reply with an element of aloofness, holding my head up.

A shiver runs from the shoulder of Blayn’s wings down to his feet. His free hand palms his crotch.

He absolutely has no filter.

And I love him so much.

With my hand in his, he leads me out of the dining hall, through all the passages until we reach his living quarters…and carry on.

“I thought…”

“The captain said I could nest for you away from the others,” Blayn says, averting his gaze from mine. “So I wouldn’t fight before I leave.”

My stomach sinks to the floor. At once, people are being kind to Blayn and at the same time crueler than ever.

“Blayn…”

I’m pulled against his hard, muscular body, somewhat cleaner than before, after his bout in the dome. His still damp feathers smell amazing, and I delve my hands in, seeking the warmth of the down next to his skin. My Blayn hums with enjoyment.

“I just want to nest for you today, myeregri. Whatever else is to happen, it will happen.”

“I’d like you to nest for me forever.” I lean my head against his warm skin, trying not to cry and failing.

“Come see what I have made, sweet Izzy,” Blayn says, arm around my shoulder as he guides me through an entrance alcove and opens the door, moving behind me so nothing is in my way.

He has surpassed himself. If I thought he could make something from nothing back in the pleasure house, he’s outdone his previous work.

Some items I recognize…there are quite a lot of blades hanging from the ceiling, spinning in a slight breeze, along with a few kitchen utensils, but everywhere is covered in swathes of multi-colored fabric, some gauzy, some thick, some light and some dark. It makes the entire place feel cozy and warm.

It is entirely Blayn. A mystery with an unexpected soft center.

“What do you think, myeregri?” Blayn asks me from the doorway as I attempt to casually inspect his handiwork.

“I think…”

He leans in farther.

“I think…”

I’m pretty sure he will fall over if he tips any further.

“I think I love it.”

His face lights up, his secret smile spreading from ear to ear.

“Do you?” His claws trail over the blades hung up nearest to us. “I can change anything you don’t like, anything at all…”

I wind my arms around his waist.

“Don’t change a thing, Blayn. Not a single thing.”

BLAYN

Igrowl as loud as I can at the Zarvu, making them back off.

“This isn’t right, Blayn,” Izzy says. “Maybe if I talk to the procurator or the captain.”

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