"I just want to be part of your world," I murmured.
"Patience, ugly one." He stirred and knelt beside me, his scent and heat sending spirals of excitement through me.
I sat up. "I can do it," I said, too aware of his muscular form and the kiss we shared last night.
He ignored me and took my wrist gently. Batu wiped away the blood before bandaging my palm once more. I didn't look at him when he sat so close. What had been a comfortable distance yesterday morning was nothing short of flustering today.
"You have said nothing about last night."
I really hated how he seemed to read my mind. I sought the right words and then gave up. I was never good at hiding what I thought or felt, and he'd know if I tried. "I don't know what to think about it."
"More thinking," he grunted and sat back on his heels.
"What do you have to say about it?" I challenged and met his dark gaze. I held my breath without meaning to, nervous when I shouldn't have been.
"It did not displease me, ugly one." His eyes sparkled.
"You're doing it again, Batu. Teasing me."
"I fear honesty would confuse you when you are already confused."
Wow. I didn't expect this response. By the intent look on his face, he was saying exactly what I was reading between the lines. And he was right: I wasn't ready for his complete honesty. Not yet. Not when I had no place in my new world and felt afloat. He was my anchor, and I feared losing that.
Which sounded selfish and confused me further.
"You're right," I said. "I'm not ready for honesty."
As usual, he appeared unfazed. "This is good," he said and stood, returning to his side of the fire.
"How so?"
"Because there is something worth being honest about."
I flushed. Taylor had made me feel special; Batu made me feel …
I didn't even know. Exhilarated, terrified, ecstatic and uncertain, all at the same time. I was on a rollercoaster with him and had been since we met. They weren't emotions I could free when I didn't know how I fit in.
He began sharpening arrowheads again, content with our almost-discussion about our almost-relationship. He had nothing to worry about; those that didn't know to fear him or his claim on me lost their heads. He had all the time in the world to wait for me to be ready.
"Moonbeam?" The tremulous voice came from outside the tent.
Standing, I opened the flap, and my gaze dropped to the little girl. "Flowers!" I exclaimed and knelt.