Chapter 42
Wayne wasn't taking any chances with Euphoria's health. He busied himself boiling water and brewing a potent ginger soup, refusing to let her leave the bed once she had bathed and drank. He wrapped her tightly in animal hides like a cocoon until she felt a cozy warmth spread through her limbs, eventually lulling her into a deep sleep.
When she finally woke, the gloom of the rainy season had broken. Brilliant sunshine pierced the clouds, and the savory aroma of cooking wafted into the room. Feeling refreshed and hungry, Euphoria wandered into the kitchen to find Wayne, shirtless and focused on the meal. The domesticity of the scene touched her; she walked over and impulsively wrapped her arms around his waist.
Wayne jumped slightly, his face flushing crimson. It was a rare display of unprompted affection from her. "Dinner is almost ready," he stammered. "Stewed meat and vegetables."
