Episode Nineteen Yes, Tonight

A lliana

Now I understand the minotaur so much better than I had when I'd gathered carrots. And he's been… kind to me for days.

I've caught him looking at me when Dek and Luka were taking me together in the furs. I don't think he hates me anymore. In fact, I think he'd like to join us. As I wonder if I'd like that, my nipples harden into peaks, giving me all the answers I need about my feelings regarding sharing sex with the massive male.

I nestle closer to him, getting a feel for him. He smells good, different from the others, earthier. His pelt is unlike either of the brothers. It's sleeker, smoother, except the shaggy fur near his shoulders.

I used to be a timid person. For a moment, I'm angry at myself for not being stronger when I lived Up Above. Then I take a deep breath and let that go.

Of course I was timid. How could I be otherwise when I was punished for speaking my mind, or even having my own thoughts? Besides, there wasn't another woman in the Up Above to function as a role model. Not one of them displayed any more courage or independence than I did.

A smile widens on my face as I realize I'm not that timid person now. Over the last few weeks, I've come such a long way.

I may not be able to make a beautiful tunic, but I can make a serviceable one that can cover my skin. And I can do it all by myself.

I may not be able to make a delicious stew, but I can cook an edible one. All by myself.

I may not be able to fletch arrows, but I can shoot them. And sometimes hit my target.

My mind and will are so much stronger than when I arrived.

I feel my cheeks heat when I think about how I act in the furs.

Now I know how to reach my pleasure. My first few nights I waited for the males to bestow it, but even that has changed. Now, if their fingers or mouths are busy, I take things into my own hands.

I'm no longer the little female who took orders and fell to her knees for the rich and powerful Up Above. I'm Alliana! I give only what I want and take what I need and say no when it serves me.

My gaze darts to Mirron. I don't know how I got so lucky to have not one, not two, but three handsome males to share this cave with. Mirron might even be the most handsome of the three, with his beautiful, mismatched eyes, their softness belying the alpha male he is.

His ivory-colored horns point up and forward. I've itched to touch them for days, but it's never been the right time.

Today is the day. Tonight, when we settle into the furs to share our bodies and explore all the ways we fit together, I want to add my handsome minotaur to the mix.

That first time we were in the pool together, when I admitted how badly he terrified me, he told me to let him know when I was ready. I'm not going to tell him, though. My body is going to do all the talking.

When I glance into his handsome face, I see his eyes are open and he's watching me. He doesn't turn his back on me to kiss his mate, his Deklan. He holds my gaze and lets the corners of his mouth lift in an almost imperceptible smile. Even those pretty eyes don't shy from me.

Yes. Tonight.