Page 35 of Running from the Orc
After a while, though, my stomach rumbled, and chuckling, my firebrand pushed away from me. She brought me warm water to wash, and wrapped herself in a warm blanket while she served us both the stew and brown bread she’d prepared earlier in the day.
My Mate had been born a lady, but in a few short months she’d learned to cook like an orc. Anexcellentcook.
As we ate, I teased her and told her all about my journey. She asked eager questions—not just about her father’s household, but everything I’d seen—and I loved the way she was able to offer insights or experiences. Together, we would help the Bladesedge Clan trade with humans up and down the coast.
By the time we were through, the fire had burned down to embers, but we were still warm. Tomorrow we could sleep softly, wrapped around one another, knowing the celebration was planned. In fact…
“’Tis after midnight,” I pointed out as we cleaned our dinner.
She hummed, not really paying attention until I wrapped my forearm around her waist and lifted her from her feet. As her blanket gave way, Roxanna squeaked and slapped at me.
“What are you doing, you great beast?”
“Beast?” I chuckled, carrying her toward the bed. “’Tis time for my Yuletide gift toye.” The heat in my words left little doubt what I’d meant, and she flushed, breathless in anticipation.
“Come to me then,” she murmured invitingly. “I will not even make you chase me.”
I loomed over her, my cock already stiffening. “I amglad I hunted you, Mate.”
Mate.
Her smile was stunning. “And I will be forever glad I ran.”
