---
"I have not shared a fire with a man like you in years," she said. "I stopped counting after ten. I did not plan for tonight to be the night I spoke of it. But here we are. You are very handsome. I am feeling some kind of connection with you."
He said nothing for a moment. Then he told the truth. "I felt it too. When the wind pushed the tree branch and you came into my arms. It was simple. It was also strong. I am a leader, a king for my people. I am a mate. I am a father. I still felt it."
She turned her head. "I know," she said. "I saw the way you fought yourself and won. It made me like you more."
[Ding! System notification: Impression points +5. Total impression points: 10]
Silence held, easy now. The forest made night sounds. The stream went on with its whisper. The ache in her thigh tugged at her face and then let go again.
"Will you stay until I sleep," she asked. "Not to take. Just to stay. I am new to the dark without doors and guards."
