Rikaru nodded slowly, his weathered face relaxing just a fraction as he accepted my answers. "Very well, Dexter. You may stay with us until the storm passes. The snow is only getting heavier, and the wind outside howls like a wounded beast. Nights like this can kill a man."
He paused, his sharp eyes locking onto mine with a clear warning. "But in this cave, everyone pulls their weight. Hunting, gathering wood, cooking, keeping the fire alive — no one eats or sleeps for free."
"I understand completely," I replied, bowing my head slightly in respect. "I'm grateful for the shelter. I'll do whatever is needed."
Even as I spoke, my attention kept drifting back to Andy like a moth to flame. She was impossible to ignore. Every small movement made her voluptuous body put on a lewd display.
