Page 80 of Black Mamba

“You will have to hunt for the encampment, provide them with food. It could take weeks. It would be better if I went in alone⁠—”

“No. Not while you are heated. Your arousal is potent, any naga male could smell you, and I would not be there if that were to happen. I kept my eye on Darolus, but I trusted him not to make a move with a bride of his own also in heat.”

My cheeks warm as I press my legs together. Great. But then my stomach growls.

“You are hungry.” Lukys hisses. “You are not eating enough.”

An idea forms.

If I can get him to go hunt, I can sneak away. I can’t imagine checking the registry will take me very long. If I’m quick enough, I could be back before he is. I know the general direction of the encampment. I glance behind me. I’d just have to walk straight for an hour. If I run, all I would need is several…

I face Lukys when I hear him move.

He tugs off the net and rope around his waist. “If you are up for it, I can catch us fish. You can wait by the shore.”

My idea dies as quickly as it becomes apparent he’s not going to leave me, even for a minute.

Tired from a long day, I nod and rise, deciding food and water is just as great an idea. “Fish sounds lovely.” My stomach rumbles again.

When he reaches out his hand, I take it, stepping into his side and into his heat. Tomorrow I’ll figure out a way to convince him to let me inside. Tomorrow. I lean into him as birdsong fills my ears and my toes curl as my stomach flutters.

I leave the grove once again with him. And with his protective presence surrounding me, I forget about everything else.

THIRTY-SIX

THE STREAM

Lukys

I am slow as I lead her deeper in the forest, hearing the stream long before coming upon it. I try not to focus on her shallow breaths, her smell, or the way she carefully moves as I clear the way to the water. But it is difficult and I fail spectacularly. I am aware of everything about my Elena.

Today was difficult for her, and for me as well.

I am unused to so many humans, or even nagas, together in one place. There were no peaceful moments, only ruckus. I had to remain vigilant amongst the tents, spaceships, and soldiers. The soldiers followed us wherever we went, their weapons often pointed at me. I did not have to tell Elena to remain by my side, she never left it.

Elena was unaware of much of it, clouded by worry for her sister, for who she did not find. Instead people peppered her with questions, and me as well, asking all manner of things.

I understand why Darolus does not let his female go where he cannot. Humans… Humans are something else.

We follow the stream until I find a place deep enough for there to be fish. Ferns sprout in every direction, hiding much of the water from view—from anyone’s view. I clear several of the plants and gather them to use as kindling later.

I wipe the dirt off my hands and face Elena. “Wait here while I am in the water.”

She is not looking at me. Instead, she is staring at the water as she chews on her lower lip. Her eyes are hooded. Peering at me briefly, she nervously glances away.

I straighten, my prick hardening and my knot enlarging with seed. It pushes against my tail. Does she need me?

“Do you mind…”

“Mind?” I prompt. She needs to eat but I will mate her first if she needs…

She nervously rubs her hands together. “Do you mind if I bathe?”

“Bathe? Bathe.” I narrow my gaze and look at the water, assessing it for danger.

“I really need to. I hate being dirty and my legs are covered in your…” I look back at her as she glances everywhere except at me. “Can you give me a little privacy while you fish downstream? That’s what I’m trying to say.” Her cheeks are bright red when she finally lifts her gaze to mine. “I would feel more comfortable if you would.”

“Female.” I cough. “I have been inside you. This morning, in fact. I will be inside you again after you are fed…” I shake my head. “I wissssh to leave this place and take you back to my nest.”