Dinner

When I finally sit up from bed, my face feels puffy from crying. The cave was darker now, only light by the fox fire so that the shadows danced as I walked past.

In the middle of the darkened room was a large fire with two roasting rabbits. Arakan was tending the fire with his back to me. As the fire crackled and danced, I was entranced by how the shadows danced on Arakans huge muscle bound back.

"The rabbits are ready!" Arakan announced loudly as he lifted away from the fire. When he sees me standing behind him he smiles, showing his large and sharp teeth. I shiver but smile back and walk forwards.

Nobu steps forward from the entrance of the cave.

"I will not apologize for my words, but I am sorry for the way I said them." Nobu stayed, looking more at the wall than me; his obsidian eyes reflecting the fire light. He then turned and walked back to the entrance of the cave with his back to the cave.

"I accept your apology," I call after him.

"Here" Arakan says as he hands a whole rabbit to me.

"Thank you," I reply as I wonder how to eat it. Arakan takes the other one and takes a large bite out of the side of his Rabbit. I pull off one leg and try a small nibble.

"This actually tastes good" I say without thinking.

"I only cook the best meat!" Arakan proudly replies with a mouth full of food. I finish two legs and realize there is no way I could eat all of it on my own. I sigh and walk over to Nobu, who turns his head as he hears me approach.

"Would you like the rest?" I offer

Nobu narrows his eyes and looks for several seconds before replying "Thank you".

Arakan clears his throat as he sits down on my side opposite of Nobu. I like your dress it is like wet blood on the leaves.

"Wha", I choke out as I start to laugh. I laugh so hard a tear comes out of my.

Arakan leans forward and looks at Nobu and smugly states "I made her laugh when you only made her cry".

However, since we are by the entrance of the cave, Arakan leans a little two far forward trying to tease Nobu and he falls into the water with a giant splash.

He quickly pulls himself out the water and shakes off like dog. I am now rolling with laughter.

Nobu stands up and walks to his sleeping area. "Idiot," he spits as he sits down.

I breath to steady myself as Arakan sits down again by the entrance, this time being more careful about how close to the edge he is. He pats next to him and says "sit".

I walk over and sit about a foot away. Being this close to him, I feel so small, like a toddler near her father. I look at him, waiting for him to say something but he keeps his eyes on the forest. The moonlight reflects on his face and his horns almost glow in the light.

"I know it is not your choice to be here,"he starts not looking at me," and I know compared to the others that I am not as smart. However, I am strong and my people are the most loyal of any man or beast. I hope you will consider being mine." He finally looks at me, with a sincere and gentle look.

"I", tears start to prick my eyes again, "I really appreciate you asking. I still need some time." I reply as I place my left hand on his arm. His skin is smooth but hard. He smiles and places his warm hand over mine.

"You should sleep now." He states as he looks back to the forest.

I start to walk back to my room when I ask "Where is Teruma?"

"He left after you yelled. He said he was going to let his people know where he was and what was going on." Nobu explains "I find it much more peaceful".