Page 25 of Fumiko and the Finicky Nestmate
Zuzu softly asked, “What else?”
“Hmm?”
“Sister likes ice cream. You stopped before I could hear all the flavors.”
“I am certain the shop is within range. She could go and see for herself.”
She said, “Sister never goes.”
That hardly seemed necessary, but he knew nothing of this enclave’s history or traditions. So he asked, “Where did I leave off?”
“Pumpkin mousse.”
Calmly, Juuyu completed his recitation. “Lemon Mascarpone. Bubble Gummy Bear. Pretzel Sundae. Almond Amoretto. And Honey Thai, which is their flavor of the month.”
Zuzu petted his hair, twining her fingers through long curls. “Your healer said you are depleted.”
“I am.”
“You need tending.”
Juuyu said, “Do not trouble yourself,” but she was already gone.
Moments later, the rustle and scuff of slippers came from the opposite direction of the window, as well as the low murmur of sisters in conference.
“Softly, Sister. Do not wake the boy.”
This time, when the mattress dipped, Fumiko spoke. “You promised us a song.”
“I apologize. Perhaps another night?”
She hesitated, then whispered, “You look different.”
“Hmm?”
Fingers tugged at the loose knot, and his blindfold fell away, revealing his hostesses awash in candlelight. Fumiko had a hand pressed to her heart, and her eyes were wide.
Ah. His disguise was gone.
Offering a palm, he greeted her with as much formality as his position allowed. “Juuyu Farroost, phoenix clan.”
Fumiko bypassed his hand in order to touch his cheek.
Instinct stirred like appetite. Only natural, given the nearness of so much power when he was at low ebb.
“I’ll tend you now.”
With practiced restraint, he confined himself to courtesy. “I would be grateful.”
But she threw him off by sliding into the bed.
Zuzu whispered, “Is he not beautiful?”
“Very.” Fumiko crowded against Juuyu’s side, mirroring Akira’s position. “They never ask me, you know. So I’m probably not very good.”
Juuyu’s instincts cried a warning. “You are untrained?”
“Probably.”
