Archive of Our Own ^beta

It was another beautiful day out in the evergreens. Ever since Samuel took the job to come out here and be the forests’ main watcher, he never looked back. Today was like any other, bright with a few clouds, a light breeze blowing by, and the wonderful smells of the forest around him. Sure, the few run-ins with the wildlife could cause some scares, but thankfully nothing like that has happened in a bit. It seemed like almost nothing could ruin this wonderful day.

Rustle rustle.

Something rustling in the bushes nearby caught Sam’s attention. It was likely some bunny or other animal but it was safer to check it out just in case. He approached cautiously, ready for anything that might pop out.

Suddenly an amorphous shape popped out of the brush, scaring the shit out of Sam. His hand went to the pocket knife; ready for anything this animal may try. Upon closer inspection though, the thing in front of him wasn’t any normal animal, but instead was one of the locals. 

A deinonychus.

For some reason though, this one lacked many of the feathers typical of one of their species. She, if her boobs were anything to go by, almost looked like her feathers were plucked off her. Her body was covered in blood here and there and it didn’t look natural. She wasn’t moving and her breathing was shallow.

Before Sam could go and check on her, the deinonychus started moving and mumbling nonsense.

“Mmm no, please s-stop.”

Her voice was very faint, almost impossible to hear.

Sam knelt down to the ground, “Hey, are you ok? You there?”

Her eyes slowly opened and started looking around for the source of that sound. They looked glazed over and it seemed she wasn’t entirely there. A blur eventually came into her view. It was big and imposing. Its hand was reaching for her. 

It was happening all over again! The pain, the blood, the hatred! 

She couldn’t escape. 

“P-please n….”

“Please what? What happened to you?”

The voice sounded sporadic and worried. Why?

Worried they wouldn’t get a go at her.

“Whore”

“Mate stealer”

“Egg breaker”

She tried to get away but she couldn’t muster up the strength. 

All she could get out was, “Don’t hurt me”

“Hey hey hey hey, I won’t hurt you.” Samuel started looking around more frantically. Someone or something must have done this to her, and if he didn’t get her help she might die. The nearest hospital was an hour away and the likelihood anyone would know how to operate on a dino was slim. Dinos were a dime a dozen, mostly relegated to their tribes outside of urban areas. Due to the nature of his job, he had some knowledge on both medical practices and dinos. The best option right now was to bring her to his home not too far away and try to fix her up there.

Sam picked her in his arms, careful not to hurt her anymore than she already was. She tried to struggle out, still thinking he was going to hurt her.

“Hey, shhhh shh. I won’t hurt you. I’m here to help.” He whispered into her ears, gentle and sweet.

It took a second for the words to register in her mind. This person, whoever he was, was helping her?

But why? Doesn’t he know what happened? Who is he? He doesn’t sound familiar. Is he even a part of the tribe? Is he even a deinonychus? He certainly doesn’t feel like one. Maybe he’s a human. But why is he all the way out here? And why does he want to help me?

These questions started to matter less and less as the world started to go dark and cold. The only source of warmth was this mystery man. On instinct, she snuggled closer to him as he picked her up in his arms. He was so warm, an oasis in this cold world. He also smelled so nice. The smell of the forest and the smoke of many campfires has permeated throughout him, underneath it all though was the sweet smell of chocolate. She didn’t care who this man was anymore, he was a comforting force in this cold, dark, and cruel world. She closed her eyes, ok with falling asleep in his arms.

“Hey, don’t fall asleep ok. You’ll be ok, just stay awake.”

Even his voice was nice to listen to. It sounded like one of those lullabies her father would tell her when she was young. It was low and smooth, lulling her to sleep even faster. Despite all the pain she was in, a small, content smile creeped its way on her face. She would have to thank him when she woke up, whoever he was. Hee really was here to help her. That was the final thought in her head before sleeps embrace took her.

“Mierda! Hey, hey! Stay awake please! Fuck!” Sam took a deep breath, “Ok your good Sam, check her pulse first before you start thinking the worst.” 

He did just that, put two fingers just below her jaw to check her pulse

Bump bump, bump bump

It was faint but it was there. She must have been like this for a while, so it’s not a surprise if she was a little tired. Just gave him a scare is all. She was ok, or at least as ok as she can be. 

Sam made the quick trek back to his truck with a bit more haste than usual. It wasn’t too far, but he preferred if he got to it as fast as he could so he can get her to safety sooner rather than later. Once he got to his truck, Sam tried opening the passenger door, only for it to stay locked. He was so flustered and worried about the deinonychus girl that he forgot to unlock the door. He took another deep breath to steady his nerves, unlocked the door, gently placed the girl in the seat, closed the door, and moved to the driver's side. He got in, started it up, and quickly accelerated down the road.

Around five minutes later on the road, Sam heard some chittering. He looked to his left and saw the girl shivering and curled up in a ball. Poor thing, without all her feathers to keep her warm she must have been freezing. He slowed the truck so he could safely take off his jacket, then layed it over her to give her something warm. Then he turned on the seat warmer and heater to make sure she would be more comfortable. He sped back up again and made the rest of the journey back home

*****

Ti’cleo was sitting by the fire with her best friend, Co’naw. He was cooking the day's hunt on the fire. He was talking about something, probably how the hunt went or how his mate keeps pestering him for kids. Everything was good. Everything that happened was just a bad dream.

Looking at him something felt off. Different. Like this wasn’t him. But how could it not be him. Co’naw was being his same jovial self. Must be that nightmare playing tricks on her.

“She keeps going on and on about finally having kids. Don’t get me wrong, I want them, just not yet. Still need to provide for the tribe before I settle down and raise some.”

Wait. Hasn’t he already told me that? Something not adding up. When did he say that?

That nightmare. He said the same thing there. Must be a coincidence. It had to. He would never do that to her.

Right?

“You there Ti’cleo?”

“Huh. Oh yeah. Sorry I spaced out for it. Thinking about a dream I had.”

“Dream? What kind of dream?”

“Oh nothing crazy. Just a little weird is all.”

“Was I in it?”

Ti’cleo thought for a second. Did she want to tell him about what happened? Surely not. Didn’t want him to know that she saw him like that. 

Like what? A… No he’s not that. We’re friends and besides he's got a mate.

“I was in it, wasn’t I? I can tell by the look on your face.”

“Oh yeah, maybe a little. Nothing bad of course.”

“Oh, so you liked it then?”

She tilted her head, “Liked what?”

A malicious smile formed on his face, “Like what I did to you last night. You were saying you didn’t but I could tell you did, so tell me the truth. Did you like it?”

“Wait, what. Wh-what did you do? I don’t think I understa-” I dawned on her, Co’naw was talking about her dream.

Was it not a dream? Was that real? No it couldn’t be. He wouldn’t do that, he’s my friend. He’s my friend! He…he wouldn’t hurt me. I don’t understand.

Co’naw came up to her, towering over Ti’cleo. She looked up at him, a lot more scared of him now. 

It was real, wasn’t it. He hurt me, didn't he? Then was this real? What is real? Does real even exist? Did he find me again? Is this a dream? Was he–was he going to do it again? He wouldn’t. He couldn’t. He was my friend!

Co’naw’s actions spoke otherwise. He pushed her down and grabbed hold of her arms. The entire time he kept that sick smile from before.

He’s enjoying this. He… he

She tried to struggle out of his grasp, “NOO! PLEASE DON’T! NOT AGAIN! I-”

Slap!

“Shut it! You know you like it. Just sit there and take it.”

He started to claw and bite at her, tearing up her feathers. 

It’s happening again.

Tears started streaming down her eyes and she whimpered, “please don’t. not again.”

*****

“Hey! Hey! Hey!” A faint voice started coming into focus. It was the same one from before. He sounded scared. Why? What happened? “Hey! Shh, shh. It's ok. It was a dream. No ones gonna hurt you.”

She was hyperventilating, whatever that dream was, it was not a pleasant one. 

“Deep breaths ok. With me. In,” Sam took a deep breath in and eventually she followed suit. “And out. In….and out. In….and out. Better?”

After a moment she shakily nodded her head, still reeling from her nightmare.

“Bien,” Samuel put on a warm smile. “I uh hope you don’t mind, but I patched you up a little while you were out. You were still bleeding here and there. 

She looked down at herself and sure enough, there was some gauze wrapped around her body in the places where her feathers were the lightest.

 She looked around the unfamiliar place, it looked nothing like any of the houses of her tribe. This was solid and firm, made up of wood and metal. There was a fireplace right next to her, keeping her warm, and a strange metal square above it.

“Wh-where am I?”

“My home. I got you here as fast as I could after you passed out. You were in pretty bad shape and I needed to get you somewhere safe fast. My house was the closest place. Hope you don’t mind.”

“I…I don’t. Just, it’s different from what I’m used to. Never seen a human home. Never seen a human.”

“Well I hope I’m setting a good first impression.”

She finally looked at her savor. His face was flat and free of feathers, nor did he have claws or teeth like her and her brethren. He had a large mane of fur on top of his head that went down his shoulders, but strangely there was not such fur anywhere else other than the light covering of fur under his chin. He also had many furs of other animals covering most of his body, surly to keep him warm with lack of any fur or feathers. What caught her attention the most though were his eyes.

His eyes were brown and soft unlike the sharp green eyes of her species, and his comforting smile told her everything was going to be ok. He was making a very good first impression.

“Uh yeah. You're different from what I thought a human would be. In a good way. A lot nicer than I imagined.”

“Thank you. My name’s Sam by the way. How ‘bout you?”

“Oh um, my name’s Ti’cleo.”

“Ti’cleo. I like it. Pretty name.”

“You think?” She was now getting a little excited. This human, Sam, thought her name was cute. No one has said her name was cute before. 

“Yeah. I like it at least.” Sniff sniff . “Mierda! The steak! Hope to god it’s not burnt.” He quickly got up and rushed to the kitchen.

“Steak?”

“Yeah, I wanted to make you some food before you woke up. Give you some energy to help you heal faster.”

“Really!” Now that she smelled the air, there was a wonderful aroma of cooked meat. “No one has ever made me food before. I… Why? Why are you wasting your precious food and me?”

“I’m not wasting it, you need it to heal. And besides, I’ve got plenty so don’t worry about it.”

“But why are you helping me? I'm a stranger. I’m not even a part of your species.”

“Does that matter?” She was stunned by that response. “If I see someone that needs help, I’ll help them. Don’t matter the species. They could be a bug for all I care.

He helped me out of the goodness of his own heart, when it could be so much easier to leave me behind and never think about it. Were all humans like this? They’re so much more different from what she was told as a kid.

“Ah good, they’re not burnt. Maybe a little well done, but hey better than nothing.” Sam quickly plated up the steaks, grabbed forks and knives, and returned back to the living room. He handed Ti’cleo her one of them, the one with the bigger slab of meat, and started eating his own. 

After some hesitation to make sure it was ok to eat, she grabbed the steak with her claws and started eating. She didn’t realize how hungry she was.

How many days ago was it now? One? Two? It doesn’t matter, this meat is so gooooood! He really made this for me.

A low chuckle could help but escape Sam’s throat as he watched her inhale the steak. “You must have been starving before I found you. Here,” he passed her his plate, “You can have mine too. Not that hungry anyways and it looks like you need it more than me.”

That caused Ti’cleo to pause.

He’s giving me his food? Even after spending all that time to make it?

“Re-really? You made it.”

“Sure I did, made it for you to eat. Go on have it, it's fine.”

She looked at the steak, then at him, then back down to the steak. She really was hungry and he’s offering it to her. Why not?

“I won’t owe you anything?”

“Haha! God no. That would be just cruel. You can have it, no strings attached.”

He was being serious. She could really have it. She cautiously went for the meat, still scared that he would take it away. When she got her claws on it, she paused one more time, looking at Sam to make sure it was ok. He gave her a gesture saying, Go on, it’s all yours. She brought the steak to her mouth and quickly started eating it like the first piece of meat he gave her.

Samuel moved back over to the kitchen, the tea he was making should be close to done as well. Anytime he was feeling down and in need of a pick me up, a good cup of tea was always a good choice. 

A shrill whistle rang through the house, startling Ti’cleo. Was something wrong? She looked over at the source of the loud noise and found Sam carefully grabbing a steaming and whistling thing in his hands. If he wasn’t alarmed by it then it must be fine, so she went back to finishing up her long needed meal. 

While Sam was preparing the cups of tea, his mind wandered to his new friend.

Would it be right to call her a friend, I only just met her after all. Sure I helped her and gave her some rudimentary healing, but that doesn’t really classify as being a friend, more just a good person. She does seem really nice though from what little I’ve talked to her.

His thoughts further drifted to how she even ended up in the state she was in the first place.

What did that to her? Certainly no animal I’ve seen. Typically dinos, especially deinonychus live in tribes, where’s hers? Did they do that to her? Why, though? What would warrant such a thing? Hmm, it’s probably for the best I don't ask her, it likely being a touchy subject and all. It’s also pretty weird for a stranger to ask “Hey I know I just met you. Why are you so injured and having horrible nightmares?” Maybe her nightmare had something to do with it. She was screaming “Not again!” ‘Not again’ what? Best not to think on it too hard. If she wants to talk about it, she will. Oh the tea’s done. Tea. TI,cleo. Yeah that’s perfect.

Sam came back to the living room with two cups of tea in hand. Before he handed one to Tea, his now decided new nickname for her, he wanted to make sure she even likes it.

“Hey, do you like tea? I know I like to have some after a rough day and you seem to have had a very rough one.”

“Oh yes, I do. My grandpa would often make some and it was always really good. Why do you ask? Is that tea?”

“Sure is, here you go, Tea.”

Tea coked her head to the side like a dog would when confused, “Tea?”

“Yeah, Tea. You like tea and it’s a lot easier to call you that. If you don’t like it I can stop.”

She thought on it a little.

Is that a human thing? To call others something other than their name. Is Sam his real name? My name isn’t Tea but I do kinda like it. Mmmm yeah, I like it.

“I’m fine with it. It’s nice.”

“Great,” Samuel checked his watch, “It’s getting late. You tired?”

Come to think of it, she was. All that running and dealing with the pain for ancestors knows how long. But one thought made her think twice about going to sleep again.

What if I have that same nightmare? What if I wake up and I’m still in it?

“I um, I don’t know. I just woke up.”

Knowing the cause of her worries, Sam tried to comfort her. “If you have uhh, trouble sleeping just know I’ll be there. Just in the room next over. Hell, you can sleep in my room too. It’s got a much nicer bed than any other.”

“Really? You want to give up your room for me?”

“Really. You need it more than I do. Your health and recovery come first.”

Knowing better now then to argue on this, Tea nodded her head and agreed. “Ok, as long as you’re ok with it.”

“I am. When you finish your tea, I can show you it.”

She nodded again. 

Why is he being so nice to me? He said he didn’t need a reason but it still seems like too much. He’s even giving me his own bed. I… I don’t know how to feel. I like it, like it a lot but… ahhhh! I don’t know. He’s sweet, very sweet. Makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. 

So did Co’naw. 

She could almost see him in the corner of her vision, smiling that wicked smile. But looking at Sam.

He’s just staring off into nothing, a happy little smile on his face. Ancestors his eyes, they look so at peace. Co’naw never looked like that even at his happiest. He was always looking into the future, never just…there. Never in the moment with him. Even when he…he did THAT to me, he still wasn’t there. Maybe Sam’s different. I hope to everything he’s different. I don’t know if I could live through that again.

Tea took a deep breath to calm her nerves, getting a nice steaming smell of her new name sake in the process. Sam was right, tea really does help calm the soul. It helped that it tasted divine too. Not like her grandpa’s but equally as good.

Soon she finished her cup and set it to the side, now just enjoying the heat on the fire and the comforting presence that was Sam. They spent a few minutes like that, silent and nothing really going on in their heads. Today was filled with enough thinking and talking and finally having a moment to rest was godsend for both of them. The peace couldn’t last forever as Sam broke the silence.

“You want me to show you my room?”

Tea was hesitant but answered in a “Yes.”

“Great, come here.” They both got up and Sam led her not too far to his room. Compared to the cabin, it wasn’t too big, but to her, it was about the size of her home before. The whole room was permeated by his smell, that comforting foresty and chocolatey smell from before, and it instantly put Tea at ease. The bed was quite large, bigger than anything she’s ever seen let alone sleep on.

“Well, here you have it. It’s all yours. I’ll be in the room next over.” Pointing to the room directly next to his, or now hers for the night at least.

“I-I can’t thank you enough Sam.”

“It’s nothing. It’s the least I–ah!”

Tea suddenly gave him a tight hug, not wanting to let go less he disappeared. Sam hugged her back and started petting the top of her head, where most of her feathers remained intact. The poor girl needed this after everything she’s gone through. Her body began to be assaulted by silent sobs, and tears started staining her cheeks. 

“Shhhh, shhhh. It’s ok now. Todo va a estar bien.No one will ever hurt you again.” Sam whispered in her ear.

She so desperately wanted to believe that, and with his voice and touch, she did.

“T-thank you.”

“Por supuesto. Of course.”

Eventually, Tea broke the hug, still wanted it to last longer but she didn’t want to waste his time. Though knowing him, he’d be fine with it. 

“Good night Tea. I’ll be here if you need anything.” Sam gave her one last comforting smile before going into his new room.

Tea got into the sizable bed and snuggled up into a ball in the blankets and sheets. Even they smelled like Sam. Everything did. It was like she was back in the forest when he first found her. All curled up and surrounded by him. 

That night, she didn’t have any nightmares or bad dreams, she just thought of him. Maybe it was bad that she so quickly started to fall for him, but it was hard not to. Those eyes and that smile were just too good, how could she not like him.

*****

The next few days went by mostly uneventfully. There was that time where Sam came back from work with some new clothes for Tea. They were a bit uncomfortable at first, but after some time she got used to wearing them. Sam certainly preferred it that way at least. Something about him being uncomfortable with a naked woman just casually walking around in his house. Tea didn’t so much understand that, but it was the least she could do after everything he’s done for her.

There was also that other time that Sam took off the bandaging and gauze to check up on her wounds and recovering feathers. During certain moments, his face would flash red. Tea thought something was wrong and commented on it, but he brushed it aside and told her it was nothing.

Other than those two things, not much changed. The one and only constant was the fact that Sam kept letting Tea sleep in his room. He’d always posit that “You need it more than I do,” and “Good sleep will help you recover faster.” Everytime, Tea would try to argue that it was his but he wouldn’t have it. 

Eac passing night though, she argued less and less. She was getting used to sleeping in such a comfortable bed, and especially with his scent absolutely everywhere in there. She wouldn’t outright admit it, but it made her feel very at ease and helped her sleep better. The only way it could get better is if he slept next to her. She would never ask that though, out of respect for him and due to her past experiences. 

There were times where Sam resembled Co’naw and other times where he was completely different. It made Tea’s thoughts about him so conflicted. Those conflicted thoughts culminated together on one day. 

Tea woke up from a particularly nice dream. Sam was holding her and telling sweet nothings into her ears. His gentle touch on her skin made shivers roll up her spine. His words, whatever they were, made her weak. And his smell, ancestors his smell. It was just as good as everytime she got a whiff. It made her feel so safe, like the whole world could come crashing down, but as long as he was there, it would all be okay. 

She woke up that morning in a small puddle of her own juices. She couldn’t help it, the dream was so wonderful and his scent divine. Her hands started to travel down her body, imagining herself a-

Knock! Knock!

She was knocked from her sexual fantasy.

“Going out to work ok. Adiós, see you soon Tea.”

“See ya, be safe Sam.”

“When am I not?”

A little giggle escaped her mouth. She liked his humor, it was way different from Co’naw, or more rather he didn;t really have a sense of humor. Her smile stayed on her face all the up until she heard the door close and the big machine thing, or a truck is what he called it, drive away. 

As fast as they left, the salacious thoughts from earlier came back like a flood. Hearing his voice didn’t help in that regard. It made her swoon. She was back in her little headspace, thinking about all the things she’d do with Sam. 

Her hand was back near her slit, slowly rubbing circles around it. Inching closer like his hand was inching closer, touching where he was. Even now, he was so gentle, so sweet. She grabbed his wrist and moved it where she wanted it, right on her little button.

“ Yesss , right there.” 

She was in control, she was…she was enjoying this. His touch, his smell, his voice. It was an ambrosia that made her a flowing waterfall. He played with her clit, made circles around her entrance. She slowly put his finger in, drawing out the please she was having. 

She wanted this. She needed this!

It made her feel some semblance of control. She was doing this without Co’naw. He wasn’t forcing her, making her do this, this was all her. It made her feel free from him. She met a much better, nicer man. Sam was everything he wasn’t.

Sam started pistoning his finger in and out, hitting all her spots and making sure she was feeling good. Every now and then, his thumb would rub her clit, building her pleasure. 

It wasn’t enough though, she needed more. More of him. Momentarily, Tea left her dream world to look around the room for potential tools to make this better for her. She didn’t care what it was, as long as there was some remnant of Sam on it, it would suffice. Her search didn’t take long though as when she looked to her left, she found one of the pillows.

Yes, that’s perfect. Other than the sheets and blankets, his pillows have the most scent on them.

She hastily grabbed the pillow and stuffed it down her legs. She then started to rub her pussy against it, rubbing her own scent in the pillow. It would become a perfect mix of their scents. It would show the world, show Co’naw, that she was Sam’s and Sam was hers. 

She started to properly hump the pillow – no, Sam started to thrust into her. Slow and careful not to hurt her as always. He felt so good inside her. It was like a missing piece to her puzzle was finally put together.

Soon her pussy began to spasm around his length, signing her impending release. She locked her legs around his waist and grinded her hips against his, stimulating her button in the process. 

“Oh yes! Ancestors please! Right there my mate, right there! Ahhh!”

A torrent of her cum drenched the pillow in between her legs, marking it forever as her plaything. 

Tea took a few deep breaths to calm herself after such a tiring act. A fog lifted from her mind, finally giving her time to think about what she was doing, but at this point, it was too late to go back now.

I really just did that, huh? Fuck. If Sam finds out… If Sam finds out! What would he do? How would he react? Would he be fine with it? Would he understand? I mean how can he understand? He doesn’t know what happened. Maybe I should tell him. NO! What if reacts the same way Co’naw did? But he’s not Co’naw, he’s better. 

Tea looked down at herself. Whatever feathers she had were disheveled and the blankets were all messed up. And the pillow? There was almost no spot that wasn’t touched by her pussy. Ancestors she was a mess. 

It felt nice though. Was it really all that bad? Maybe it wasn’t? As long as Sam didn’t find out, it was fine right. Oh, ancestors save me.

Tea cleaned up as best as she could and tried her best to hide any evidence of her deed. Before she left the room, she took one final sniff of the sheets, just to remember it or at least that’s what she told herself.

The rest of the day was uneventful. Sam came home, talked about his day, and was none the wiser to what Tea did earlier that day. When night came around and they went to bed, Sam’s room was still heavy with the smell a sex, another reminder of Tea's deeds.

When she went to sleep, she had a very similar dream to the night before, and when she woke up, she did it all over again. She was once again ashamed of herself but like last time, found a way to excuse it.

This pattern continued every day.

*****

Things continued to stay mostly uneventful. There was one little hiccup that happened though. Sam needed to clean the sheets of the beds and Tea got a little scared that the wash would clean away Sam’s smell. His beloved smell that she loved so much. She got worried that she wouldn’t be able to get a smell of him ever again. A silly worry, but one that scared her to no end.

Her worries were unfounded though. When the sheets were done and Tea went to bed, she found that his scent wasn’t gone. Maybe there was a bit of an artificial floral smell to it, but she could look past it and find him in there.

For Sam’s part in this little scare, he thought it was nothing more than her being scared about not having sheets. He tried telling her that they’d be back by the end of the day. Nothing he did though calmed her nerves.

The next morning when he saw her cute little smile on her face, he couldn’t help but say, “I told you so.”

It was safe to say by the look of her face, Tea was not a fan of how smug he was.

The rest of that day, they spent goofing around and having fun with each other.

A couple days later, Sam wanted to check up on Tea’s wounds. They were likely healing just fine, but he would feel better if he saw the progress.

Just like every time he did this, it was a slightly uncomfortable experience, more so as her feathers got fuller and brighter. It was an undeniable truth that she was a beautiful woman. Her tits were small and perky, just the way he liked, and she had wonderful child bearing hips to boot, or egg laying.

Do they lay eggs, or do they give live birth like mammals? Why am I even thinking this? It’s wrong. She's a friend, not some item for me to look at. She is nice to look at. No! Fuck! Dios…

Tea was looking really good now. Most of her features were back now, there were only a few patches of blank skin but those were much smaller now compared to before. And their color was coming back in too. Before they were dull greys and browns, but now they were much more vibrant. Most of them around her body were a beautiful oak brown, some even had tips of green on the end.

She really is a tea leaf.

The feathers around her belly were a soft and creamy white that traveled all the way down to between her legs.

I wonder if it continues? Does it travel all the way to the underside of her tail, or does it stop near her… What does she have? Does she have a cloaca like birds or something more akin to a vagina? Shit! No!

Sam shocked his head, hoping to dispel those dirty thoughts. All it did was catch Tea’s attention.

“You ok Sam?”

“Hmm, oh yeah. I’m good, don't worry.” He put on a soft smile, hoping to sell the illusion. It must have work.

“Ok, good. Just making sure you're ok Sam. You can tell me anything you want.”

A bit hypocritical, don’t ya think Ti’cleo.

“I know Sweet Tea. Thanks for the offer.”

Sweet Tea? I like that. I like that a lot. I always like it when he calls me Tea. It sounds wonderful coming out his mouth. Sweet Tea is even better. Ahhhhhhhh! If only you knew how your words affect me. Maybe he shouldn’t know that. Things are fine the way they are. Don’t need to mess anything up. He’s the one good thing that's happened to me in these past few months. I don’t want to mess that up.

Both were lost in their thoughts, so similar yet so different. Soon, Sam deemed that Tea was all good and she would need any wrapping or gauze. This made Tea very happy. 

“Finally. You don’t know how annoying and confining those are.”

“I have an idea.” Tea tilted her head. “I broke my arm when I was 14. Hurt like hell. Had to put a cast around it and everything. Couldn’t use it for weeks. It was horrible.”

“Sounds like it. Broken limbs are practically a death sentence out in the wild. Even if they do heal, it most likely won’t heal properly. Your arm looks fine, did you get lucky?”

“Haha no, it was that cast. It binds your arm, or whatever else is broken, and makes sure it heals as fast and as healthy as it can.”

“Really! That sounds amazing! Wish we had that kinda thing out in the wild. It would help so many people.”

“If only. There’s strict laws that prohibit that kinda thing. It’s to ensure we don’t bud in on the going ons of the tribes. Most would be too prideful anyway. Uhg, don’t get me started on Rexes.”

“Oh I know. My tribe had a conflict with them and negotiations were insufferable.”

Sam scoffed, “I can only imagine. Only talk to one once. It’s not an experience I want to repeat. She was damn big too.” He gestured with his hands how big she was. At least a few feet taller than him. “Pretty intimidating, I can only imagine how big the males get.”

“Quite small actually. The females are bigger.”

“Really? Well that would explain things.”

For a moment, he forgot Tea was completely naked. She was being so casual about it, but a quick glance down at her body reminded him of her nakedness.

“Dios, go put on some clothes ok. Can’t be walking around naked.”

“Hmm? Oh yeah there in your room. I’ll go put some on. Thanks Sam.” Her cute little smile brightened his day. She looked so happy compared to when he first found her. Made him happy. 

“Of course Sweet Tea.” 

Sam watched her walk away into her room. She was so much more lively now. She had this little pep in her step and a natural sway of her hips as she moved.

Dios, those hips. And her tail lifted up so high, I can almost see her – damn it no! I need some fresh air.

“I'm going outside for a walk, Tea! Won’t be too long”

“Ok!”

With that, Sam took the back door out and started following a little trail. It wasn’t more than 5 minutes but it should be enough to get his thoughts in order.

Why do I keep thinking of her like that? She’s my friend. It makes it even worse when I consider the fact I practically saved her from certain death. Maybe. I don’t know. I mean, I like her. A lot really, but it feels weird when I think of her like that. Like some stockholm syndrome type stuff. If we were to get together, I don’t know if it would be real or not. It could, but would never know and I would just keep guessing. I don’t want that for her, or for me really. Maybe I should talk to her. That might make things worse. I don’t know what to do. Dios, I’m a mess.

Before he knew it, he was back in front of his home. Maybe that little circuit wasn’t long enough but it would have to suffice. When he got back inside, he found Tea captivated the tv, one of the things that intrigued her the most. Maybe she shouldn’t be watching it but he was too caught up in his thoughts to care. 

She looks so pretty like that. So focused on one thing. The way her eyes light up, her tail wagging without a care. It doesn’t matter if nothing came of us, as long as she’s happy, I don’t care.

That finally got his thoughts in order, at least for the time being. Maybe some other time he’d catch a sneaking glance or have an errant thought, but for now he went to his room with a smile on his face

*****

As the weeks went on, Tea’s morning escapades got more and more daring.

It started small, she might sneak a sniff on one of his used clothes or even say his name during the act, hoping he’d hear even if he was miles away. But it only grew from there.

She would begin to wait till he got home or do it bright and early, making sure he was in the house while she did it. Sometimes she would hope he would walk in and find her playing with herself. Hoping that he would join her and fulfill those dreams of hers.

Then it got even more daring. She’d go into his new room and get a fresh hit of his scent. After all the washings and the time spent not sleeping on them, his old bed was starting to lose his smell. Or maybe she was getting used to it. She didn’t care. She would take some of his clothes off the hanger and stuff in her nose. So even go as far as to masterbait in his room. It made her feel so good. Sam was the man she chose, not Co’naw. Sam was perfect, perfect . She’d shower him in love and adoration for the rest of her days.

It all came to a head one day when what she was doing simply wasn’t enough. She needed him and she would do anything to have him. The question was how?

I know! Humans don’t have nearly as sensitive noses like most species but they’re still susceptible to pheromones. Maybe I can get him to love my scent like I love his. Yes, that's exactly it! It would be perfect, our bond built on our love for each other's scent. Hmmmm I can see it now. He’d love it.

But how do I get him to like my scent without it being obvious? Hm think girl, think.

Oh I know! The pillow that I use. It’s absolutely drenched in my pheromones. I could replace one of his pillows with that one and as he sleeps, my smell will seep into him. He might not notice it at first, might just comment on how his pillow smells nice, but my pheromones should slowly work their magic. And the pillow I replace mine with should have a more fresh smell for me. It’s perfect!

Excited about this plan to get her perfect mate, she quickly put it into action. She grabbed her used pillow and quickly moved to his room.

Right before she did the pillow swap, she thought about what she was really doing.

Is this the right thing to do? YES! NO! I DON”T KNOW! Is this really what I want? What about what he wants? Does he even like me like that? Even if he does like me, it would still be forced. I don’t want that. Not for him. After everything he’s done for me. He’s fed me, housed me, healed me, and given me something to believe in. All without asking anything in return. Sam is a good man, he doesn’t deserve that. And if I were to do this to him, I certainly don’t deserve him. I’d be just like Co’naw.

Tea gasped at that realization. She’d be just like the man she hates.

I…I don’t want this, don’t want that.

Her hands started to tremble at the thought. The last thing she wanted to do was be like him. Even now after all this time, his poison is still affecting her.

Corrupting her. 

Tears began to well up in her eyes. She hated that it got this far. Hated herself for letting it get this far.

She rushed out of the room and out to the back of the house. She found the garbage can and threw the pillow in it with as much force as she could. She never wanted to see it again, a dirty reminder of what she had almost done to her best friend. The only place it belonged was in the trash.

Tears were still flowing down her face as she ran back into her room. She wanted nothing more than to disappear. She could almost hear Co’naw whisper in her ear.

“No one would know if you just disappeared. No one would ever care about you.”

“THAT’S NOT TRUE!! He cares. Sam cares.”

“I couldn’t hear you. Who’s he? Is he me? I certainly wouldn’t care.”

“SAM! Sam cares.”

“The human? Ha, he doesn’t care. You’re not even the same species, why would a guy like him care for you? Hmm?”

“Because…because.”

“Because what? He’s done nothing but help you? That’s just pity. He found a plucked, scared little girl out in the woods. Once he deems you healthy, he’s gonna kick you out. I can only imagine how tired of you he is.”

Ti’cleo had no response for him. She just sat there crying, wallowing in her despair. Maybe Co’naw was right. Maybe Sam didn’t care and once she was healthy he would kick her out. She would lose him forever. The only way to make sure she would have him is if she made him like her. Made him he-

“Tea? You in here? OH GOD!” Sam came rushing over to the bedside after seeing her balled up and crying.

“I’m here Sweet Tea. Don’t worry I’m here.”

“S-Sam? Why…why are you here?”

“Got off work early but that doesn’t matter. What happened sweet girl?”

“I-I” She broke down even more. She couldn’t bring herself to admit what she was thinking. It was too painful for her to bear.

“Oh, you poor thing. Come here.” Sam climbed on the bed and opened his arms for a hug. Tea was quick to go into his arms, hugging him with a grip that could crush steel.

“Shh, shh. You're ok. You're ok. Nothing’s gonna hurt you.”

“I-I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

“Sorry for what? You did nothing wrong.”

“I did. I…I almost hurt you.”

“And how could you do that?”

“I almost left.”

“Hmm?”

“I almost killed myself.” Sam made an audible gasp. “To protect you.”

“Tea.” It took him a second to process those words. Protect him? “I don’t understand. Protect me from what?”

“From me.”

“And what could you do to hurt me?”

Tea took a few moments to process her thoughts. She detangled from his arms so she could stare directly at him.

“I almost forced something on you. Something you wouldn’t want. Something I don’t want. I was almost as bad Co’naw.”

“Co’naw?”

“He was… It’s better if I explain it. Why I was even out in the woods to begin with.”

“You sure?”

She took a deep breath to steel herself. “Yes.”

*****

There was a commotion coming from the front of the village. There were cheers and celebrations meaning something good must have happened.

Ti’cleo quickly made her way to see what it was. When she arrived, she found the hunting party had not only come back successful, but majorly so. More than four big and healthy deer were being carried on the backs of the hunters, some even showing off their prize to potential mates, hoping it was a good example of how they could provide. At the front of the party was Co’naw.

He was the chief's son and soon he would be anointed chief. This wondrous success of a hunt will only bolster his position and worthiness as chief. He was walking tall with TWO big bucks on his back, surely he hunted those on his own. He was strong and fast, with claws and teeth that made him a force to be reckoned with. But most importantly, Co’naw was Ti’cleo’s best friend.

Ever since childhood they were very close. Many thought it strange at first, he was the chief’s son while she came from a family of weavers. As the years went on though, many got used to the sight. They were nothing more than friends and it wasn’t a bad thing for Co’naw to have friends, so many came to accept it. 

Ti’cleo for her part, was always intrigued in him since they first met. Some days she would inision a life with him, having kids and being happy, but she knew that wasn’t a possibility. The fact remained, he was the chief’s son and she was a weaver. Many would look down upon him and the other tribes might deem him lesser for choosing her as a mate. That was the last thing she wanted for her friend, so she kept it to herself. 

One day she would find the one, the right mate for her, and then she could drop her whole childhood crush and move on in her life. The day Co’naw was mated by a female from another tribe, the daughter of high ranking hunter, Ti’cleo vowed to never get inbetween them, less she be a mate stealer, one of the worst crimes one could commit.

After Co’naw and the party finished parading around the village, Co’naw announced.

“Everyone! As you can see today's hunt was very successful! We were able to hunt down many deer! I say this is cause for CELEBRATION!!!”

Everyone cheered and shouted their agreement. It had been many moons since the last big party, and this hunt certainly qualified for one. Co’naw reveled in the cheers and attention, this was his favorite part about a hunt. Not the tracking, not the kill, not the satisfaction of a good kill, but everyone praising him for a hunt well done. A big smile was plastered on his face.

How glorious is this. People will sing songs about this hunt. About me.

This was a side of him he let no one see, not even his mate. He hid it well, very few times did he ever let this guise slip, and those few times, he found a way to make sure it never got out. 

Surveying the crowd for all the onlookers, he found his friend, Ti’cleo. His friend had a big smile on her face, surely thinking about how great he was.

“Everyone, have fun and be merry!”

With that, he dropped one of the deers and made his way to his friend.

“Ti’cleo! My friend, how are you?”

“Oh I’m good Co’naw. In high spirits like everyone else.”

“Good good. Come, it’s been a while since we last spoke and tonight seems as good as any.”

“Sure, it has been a while huh.”

They made their way over to a secluded little spot where no one could bother them. Co’naw made a quick fire, cut up nice pieces of meat, and put them on the fire.

They spent the night talking and catching up with each other. It was always a joy to hang out with Co’naw.

They went over many topics like humans encroaching on their territory, or other tribes being a bother. Later the topics turned more personal as Ti’cleo talked about her family and Co’naw talked about his mate. She was hounding him for kids.

“She keeps going on and on about finally having kids. Don’t get me wrong, I want them, just not yet. Still need to provide for the tribe before I settle down and raise some.”

“Haha yeah, but you’re about to become the chief. You’ll need some to take your place when you get old.”

“Uhg, that's her exact same argument. Don’t tell me you agree with her.”

“And what if I do?”

“I’ll go mad, that's what.”

They both had a laugh at that.

It felt good to joke with friends, especially Co’naw. He understood her better than most. 

“Say, how ‘bout a game?”

“A game? What kinda game?”

“I overheard some humans while out hunting, talking about this game they play. They called it ‘truth or dare’.”

“Hmm? What does that mean?”

“From what I got, one person asks ‘truth or dare’ and the other person responds with truth or with dare.”

“Ok I’m following, but why? How’s this a game?”

“I’m getting there, don't interrupt me. Anyway, if they answered the truth, the person will then ask a question that the other person must answer truthfully. If they answer with dare, the person will then dare the other to do something and they have to do it. That make any sense?”

“I think, maybe a bit of a demonstration would be good.”

“Sure yeah, ok um you try first.”

“Ok, uh truth or dare.”

“Truth.”

“Hmm, did you mess up any kills on this last hunt.”

“Ha, easy. Nope. Weeeell maybe there was one.”

“Oh do tell.”

He thought for a bit.

Did I really want to tell her? Maybe I could just lie and move past it. That would go against the integrity of the game though. I mean how cares anyways, it’s a stupid game made by humans. She is my friend though. Sure fuck it.

“Well I was gonna bring back a third kill but I uh, well let's say it wasn’t the cleanest.”

“Ok sure, but why not bring it still. A kill’s a kill.”

Co’naw sighed, “I mutilated the thing. I just couldn’t stop myself. I was on roll, both my kills happened on the same day and I was about to have a third.” He looked down at his claws envisioning the blood, hearing the bleats of pain. 

“When I cut it down, I just could stop clawing and biting and ripping and tearing away its flesh.” He closed his eyes and saw it clear as day, his mouth was watering and he licked his lips. He came to shortly afterwards, shaking his head and remembering he was sharing this with someone.

“Haha, it was a bit much. There wasn;t much left after that so I left it there for the wild animals to eat.”

Ti’cleo had never seen her friend like that and it unnerved her a little. She excused it though as he had never acted like that before, and it was somewhat understandable that he might get a little too carried away after two successful kills.

“Oh wow, that’s pretty intense. At least the other animals of the wild got something to eat out of it right.”

“Right. Now my turn.”

They continued back and forth like that for the next few minutes. Never getting as crazy as what Co’naw first shared. He reeled his inner self back in and Ti’cleo almost always did dares. Until one time, she decided to brave whatever question he would ask.

“Ok fine, truth.”

“Finally. You got hidden secrets you don’t want me to know?”

“No nothing like that. Was that your question?”

“Ha no, got a much better one. Been wanting to ask you this for a while. Who do you have eyes on for a mate?”

“Oh wow, heavy question huh?

“Come one I’ve been truthful to you so far haven’t I?”

“I mean yeah, it’s just. I don’t know.”

“Thought you said you don’t have any secrets you're hiding from me.”

“I know, I know. Jezz.”

Ti’cleo took a deep breath. She was really going to tell him this.

“Ever since we were kids, I thought you would be the perfect mate.”

“Oh. Really!” Co’naw did not expect this answer but was pleasantly surprised by it.

“Yeah. I knew nothing could ever happen between us because of your status though. People still question our friendship, imagine what people would think if we were mates. They would surely look down on you and think you unworthy of being chief. That's the last thing I want for you, I want you to be happy more than anything else.”

“How’d you feel when I got mated with Cas’ta?”

“I was happy for you. She was, is, the perfect mate for you and she is a wonderful woman. I may not be as close to her as I am with you but she’s still a good friend and I would never betray her trust like that.”

“Huh, well I see why you were a little apprehensive about saying that now.”

“This doesn’t change things between us does it?”

“No! Not at all. I mean I get it, a guy as charming as me is hard not to fall for.”

“Don’t say it that oaf.” They both had a good laugh.

“I’m sure one day you’ll find a proper mate, Ti’cleo. I just hope he’s as good as me.”

“Stop it!” She sighed, “I hope I can find someone too, or someone finds me, I don’t care.”

“You’ll find them, Ti'cleo, I know it. It’s getting a bit late, I’m heading off to bed. I’m sure Cas’ta is wondering where I am. Goodnight Ti’cleo.”

“Goodnight Co’naw, see you around.”

“Oh you will.”

With that, they went their separate ways for the night. Ti’cleo was just glad that nothing changed between the two. She wouldn’t know how to react if she lost her best friend. Co’naw on the other hand, had a lot to think about.

His lifelong friend just admitted her feelings for him and that was interesting. Very interesting. Not surprising though, he wouldn’t be surprised if all the females in the tribe had feelings for him at one moment in time. What got him though was that she never acted on them, even when she was so close to him. If he was being honest with himself, it pissed him off a little.

Fuck all that bullshit about people looking down on me. If they did, they’d come to regret it. Am I not good enough to even try. HA! Fuck no! She’s just to stupid and scared to even try. Maybe I should give her what she wants. Keep a secret so no one knows. It would finally give me someone to fuck. I know for a fact if me and Cas’ta mate, she’ll try to lock me in so she can get the kids she so dearly wants. Just have to make sure I pull out and I should be good, don’t need Ti’cleo baring my kids. Ugh kids. Who needs a successor when I can run things just fine. All they would ever think about it taking my place. My father was a fool for having me.

Co’naw walked off into the night, a new plan in mind. Maybe if this all works out, he might do this with other females.

*****

Later on that night. Ti’cleo was sound asleep. Likely having wistful dreams of nothing in particular. Maybe she was weaving with her mother or playing with her father. Might be out by the lake with some of her friends. It didn’t matter, all that did was the dream was a happy one. 

One that was so rudely interrupted by a loud noise coming into her home.

Her eyes were slow to open, still groggy and half asleep. She surveyed her home and strangely found a figure standing above her. It took her a moment to realize who it was.

“Co’naw?”

“Shh, no words. You just sit there and enjoy it.” His voice was oddly stern, like he was ordering her around.

“Enjoy what?” She tried to get up, but Co’naw pushed her down. She hit her bed with a surprised huff.

“Hey what's going on?”

“I said be quiet. I’m giving you what you always wanted. So don’t make a noise or else.”

He was starting to scare her, his tone of voice was all wrong. And what she always wanted? What did he mean by that?

He got up on the bed and was now towering over her. Ti’cleo was really scared now, what was he doing? Her question was answered when she was his erect and exposed penis that had slipped out of his slit. It was knotted and pulsing in the air.

“WHa-mm!”

“I said shut it! You wanted this right? To be my mate? Well I’m giving it to you. You should be thanking me. You were too scared to even try. Now it’s time to take what I want and give you what you’ve desired for so long.”

“Mmmhfm!” She didn’t want it like this. She didn’t want this at all. It was wrong, very very wrong.

It must be a dream! It has too! Co’naw would never do this.

Ti’cleo closed her eyes hoping it would all go away, that when she woke up it was nothing more than a nightmare. But this nightmare was a reality.

She opened her eyes and saw that he was moving his member ever closer to her most private place, about to violate it, and her, for the rest of her life.

*****

“H-he raped me.” Tea finally said the word that would never come out of her mouth.

Sam was stunned. Shellshocked even. To betray her trust like that, only the scum of the earth did that. His rage started bubbling, clenching his fist and making a horrible grimace. 

“I know what you're thinking. Don’t. He's too far away anyway.”

“But he-”

“I know. Ancestors I know.” Fresh tears rolled down her cheeks. “The next morning, his mate found out. He forgot that my scent would be all over him. She confronted him about it, and he must have lied. Half the tribe was clamoring to get a piece of me, all shouting that I did it. He must have said something along the lines of ‘I always liked him and finally decided to act on it. That I–that I raped him and thats why my scent was all over him.’ The way he looked at me. Most would see a hurt and injured man, what I saw though was a look of triumph. He knew that no matter what, no one would listen to me, not over his words. He would get away with it, in fact people would start treating him even nicer because of it.”

“¡Ese maldito idiota! I swear I’ll find him and-”

“I said stop Sam. There’s nothing you can do.”

“I know, it's just…that bastard is scum.”

“I know.” Tea took a deep breath, this next part hurt a lot. Literally. “I was dragged out of my home. People were shouting and screaming things at me like ‘mate stealer’ and ‘egg breaker’. I was brought to the chief, who was told the same lie as everyone else. He was to give the verdict on what would happen to me. He was not kind. He didn’t even give me the chance to defend myself, I hurt his precious son after all. He said that I would be…” Deep breath in, deep breath out. “That I would be plucked and exiled, one of the worst punishments you could get. If I ever showed my face again there at my tribe, or even another, I would surely be killed.”

“That’s why most of your feathers were gone.”

“Yes. Plucking like that is a very painful thing. Almost worse than death. Everyone in the tribe gets to pull out one feather. It doesn’t matter how they do it, or even if it causes other feathers to be plucked. Even my parents did it. The look on their faces. I tried to plead my case to them but they would even look my way, much less listen to me. That hurt the most, that my own parents thought I was a mate stealer. After everyone got their feather, they gave me a chance to run. To never look back and never return. Eventually I came across you.”

“Jesus. That sounds horrible. Oh Sweet Tea I-”

“Don’t…don’t call me that. I don’t deserve it.”

“Nonsense. What you don’t deserve is what happened to you.”

Tea finally looked him in the eyes again. She saw a conviction in his eyes, heard it in his voice too. That was Sam, clear as day. The man she fell for. The man she almost ruined.

“Before you got home today, I almost did something very horrible.”

“What, Tea? There’s nothing that’s as worse as what Co’naw did.”

“I got pretty close.” Tea looked off to the side. “I almost forced you to love me. That's nearly as bad.”

Puzzled, Sam asked “How?”

“I was going to replace one of the pillows you sleep on with one that was covered in my pheromones. Over time, it would make you love me.” She winced at the memory. “I threw it in the trash, should probably burn it too.”

Sam was confused, “But why though? That…I don’t understand.”

Tea closed her eyes, readying herself for what she was about to say.

I hope this doesn’t go as bad as it did with Co’naw.

“It’s because I love you Sam. Pretty early on I did. I just kept doing things, stupid things, hoping you would find out and that you would love me too. I got so scared that you wouldn’t, that maybe once I was all better, you would kick me out and I would never see you again. Made me almost force you into loving me. That’s why I don’t deserve you to call me Sweet Tea. I don’t deserve you at all.”

“Bullshit.”

“Huh?”

“That’s bullshit.” Sam inched a little closer to her, “You deserve to be called Sweet Tea because you're my sweet tea. Sweeter than anything I’ve ever known. You deserve me.”

“But I almost-”

“But you didn’t. You stopped yourself. You didn’t want to be like that bastard. You chose to be better. You hear me? Better. ”

“I…”

“And that speaks to who you are. A sweet girl with a big heart. Someone who the world has beaten down yet you keep getting up. Even at your lowest, you stand tall. That’s who you are, Ti’cleo. And nothing will change my mind on that.”

She forgot what it was like to hear her name come from his voice. He always called her ‘Tea’ ‘Sweet Tea’ or some other nickname. She loved those, but to hear her name from him? It lit up her world.

“Say-say my name again. Please.”

Sam's signature smile formed on his face, “Of course, Ti’cleo.”

“Oh, oh ancestors.” New tears started streaming down her face, but for a very different reason now. Instead of sadness and pain, these were because of happiness and letting go of all the pain she’s kept bottled up for the past few months.

“Oh Sam.”

“Come her sweetie.” He opened his arms and gave her the best hug in her life.

All the pain, all the worries. All washed away by the wet tears cleansing her face, and by Sam’s warm embrace, holding her still as the storm of emotions moved past her. He would never leave her, never abandon her or kick her out. He would never hurt her, and would move the world to go after those who did.

She was his Sweet Tea, and he would never let her go.

After some time, the flow of tears started to subside. Whether the well was dried up or she simply was done crying, it was hard to tell.

“Better now hon?”

Her answer was a small nod. 

Sam kissed her on the top of her head, “Good, I’m gonna go make us tea. Just the way you like. When we're done, we’ll go to bed.”

Carefully Tea asked, “C-could you sleep with me?”

“Of course, Sweet Tea.”

A small smile finally formed on her face. “Thank you.”

Sam quickly got up and began preparing the tea. While it was going, he got dressed in his nice night clothes. Once he heard the steaming of the kettle, he rushed back, poured two cups of tea and then returned to their now shared room.

It was just the way Tea liked it, like Sam said.

They sat there together enjoying the tea and enjoying each other. It was almost a mirror of their first night together, only now there were more memories between them and deeper feelings than before.

There was one last, crucial question that Tea needed an answer for.

“Sam, do you love me?”

Before, he might have struggled with that answer. His feelings would have been too mixed. Now though, there was not a doubt in his mind what the answer was.

“Yes, I do. I love you, Ti’cleo.”

“You're not just saying that to make me feel better?”

“No, I mean it. I love you and you deserve it.”

“Oh, oh ancestors.” Yet again tears started to flow freely down her face. He loved her. It wasn’t something forced onto him, it was genuine love. Ti’cleo was the happiest person in the world. Even if the reasons why she met him were painful, she was glad that she did. She had never felt this way in her life and she did not want to let it go.

As they both started to settle down for the night, Sam pulled out his phone and put on a song called ‘14.3 Billion Years’ or whatever that meant. It didn’t matter what it meant though because the song was incredibly beautiful and calming. Exactly how they both felt at the moment. 

Beautiful and calm.

They laid in bed together, Tea snuggling up into Sam’s arms.

Tea was so soft in his hands, her feathers soft like clouds. It was almost like he wasn’t holding on to anything at all, but he was. He was holding her and would never let go. He began to pet her head and stroke her back, lolling her slowly to sleep. She let out a low, cat-like purr, content with his ministrations.

His scent, a comforting blanket on top of her, was now the smell of home and not that of some base desire. It told her she was safe and that no one would hurt her.

That night, they both slept soundly in each other's embrace. In their dreams they were simply together, just as they were in real life because not even a dream could top reality.

*****

The next few days were slow and lazy. All Sam and Tea did was spend time together, learning new things about each other that they didn’t know before.

Sam was actually quite the music fanatic and would often listen to his favorite songs whenever he was doing something.

One day, when he came home from work, Sam brought back some weaving supplies. He wanted to give Tea something to do while he was away. Something other than the tv at least. She was very excited when he showed her the gift. She made a passing comment on it during her story and thought he wouldn’t notice it. Instead he surprised her yet again with his attentiveness.

Tea almost immediately got to work on weaving something for him. She had forgotten what it was like to work on a new project. How happy it made her to weave something after so long. And to make something for someone she loved? Bliss.

While she worked, she thought of the outside world and what it was like. She liked her new home, but she would be lying if she wasn’t getting bored or seeing the same thing everyday. Every time she tried walking that little circuit just outside the house though, she would get afraid to even step a five feet away from the patio. Her mind would race with thoughts that her tribe members are out there watching her, waiting for her to leave so they can strike and kill her.

One day Sam saw her try to build up the courage to walk outside. Piecing together the reasons for her fear, he offered to walk with her.

She replied, “No. I want to do this myself. I appreciate that you want to help, I really do, but I want to do this myself. I want to feel safe with and without you.”

“I understand. Just know that when you make your little adventure, I’ll be here waiting.”

“I know.” Tea gave him a hug, taking in his smell. She looked outside and saw the beautiful forest expanding as far as the eyes could see.

“Another day.”

Each day, she would venture farther and farther away. It was small increments,  but to her it was monumental.

Some days she would make a lot of progress, more than 5 feet, and others she could barely get out the door. Every time though, Sam was there. Sometimes he was listening to some music, or even learning how to play guitar, but through it all he was there whenever Tea needed him.

On the day Tea made it halfway for the first time, was also the day she walked the full circuit. Her thought process was that it would take the same amount of time to walk back either way. So she braved the unknown path, stalwart in her steps.

When she made it back, Sam had a small smile on his face. Even though he didn’t see it for himself, he knew. Just by the way she walked back in. There was a clear weight lifted from her. And her smile, god her smile was as bright as ever.

Tea didn’t immediately tell him though, she wanted to keep this big victory to herself for a bit. She knew that Sam would shower in love when she told him and she wanted to bask in the glow of her own victory a little while longer.

After dinner is when she told him, with a big smile on her face.

“I did it Sam. I walked the whole circuit,”

“I know you did Sweet Tea.”

“You knew?”

“Yeah. The way you walked in today, I could just tell. You look cute when you’re happy with yourself.”

The feathers on her head fanned out, a flustered expression Sam came to enjoy. “Cute?”

“Yeah, the cutest.”

Tea buried her snout in her hands and meeped out, “Thank you.”

Sam had a chuckle at that.

“You know, I’m so proud of you, Ti'cleo. I really I’m.”

Tea got misty eyed when he said. She couldn’t remember the last time someone said she was proud of her. To hear it from him was the best thing ever. 

Sam held her one of her hands as the emotions went through her. No words needed to be said, he knew what she was feeling. Happy, triumphant, proud. All rolling though her all at once. 

When the majority of the emotions had come and gone, she took a breath. 

“Sam, could we maybe go to a city? I want to see what the world is like outside this place. Outside the forest.”

“Oh, really? Of course. We can make it a date.”

Tea liked the sound of that. “Yes, a date.”

She nuzzled the side of his face with her snout, one of her many ways of showing love.

“I love you Sam.”

“Yo también te amo, Ti’cleo.”

Sam brought her in for a kiss. The first time they tried was a bit awkward because of the mouth difference, but over time they made it work. Sam would put his lips on the tip of her snout, while Tea would use her tongue to explore his mouth. It was their own little way, as it were.

One night, Tea accidently stuck her tongue all the way down Sam’s throat, still learning how to kiss. He gagged at first, but quickly started sucking on it, enjoying the feeling of having her tongue deep in his throat. Safe to say after that, they wouldn’t kiss any other way.

After their wonderful kiss, Sam made their nightly tea and got ready to settle down for the night. 

Tea wanted to be the big spoon tonight and he was more than happy to oblige. Her fluffy tail wrapped around his legs while she held him close with her arms. Her petite little breasts, the perfect little pillows, so soft and feathery. Her purrs were a wonderful white noise to put Sam to a peaceful sleep that night.

After Tea’s big victory that day, she made sure to walk that circuit everyday. Getting more comfortable and confident each time.

*****

Sam made good on his promise for a date out into the city. When she was ready, he brought Tea out to the nearby town about an hour away. When you live and work all the way out in the forest, the nearest civilization isn't around for miles.

When they got there, Sam had a plan for all the things he wanted to show her. The first on the list was a clothes store. She needed new clothes so what better time than to get them now. The entire way there, Tea was staring awestruck at the wonders of the modern world. Every screen and every ad had her rapt attention. She’d try to follow every car that drove past, only to find a new one to watch. Sam got a little worried that it might have been a bit too much excitement for the girl, but when they arrived at their destination, Tea turned to him.

“By the ancestors! Is all of that really normal!”

“Haha, yup. Even busier in the bigger cities.”

“Wooow!” She looked out the window, “Where are we now?”

“We’re at a clothes store. I thought you needed some new ones and now is the perfect time to get some.”

“Ok,” a little confused, “But my clothes are fine.”

“Sure, but it never hurts to have more. And besides the clothes you have now are ones I got a while ago. Don’t you want some new ones that you get to choose?”

Tea thought for a moment. “Sure, I guess.”

“Great! Come on”

Sam was right. All the different designs and colors that were available to her enamored Tea. They spent about an hour picking out and trying on all the clothes she wanted. By the end they had several bags of clothes and happy smiles on their faces.

Sam brought her to all other sorts of places, like a mall or toy store. For lunch they sat down at a deli and had some nice sandwiches.

Next they explored a little gaming center. It was full and alive as there was even a tcg tournament going on at the moment. Both didn’t know what was happening but it was entertaining all the same. 

Later, Sam had apparently got a reservation at a nice Mexican restaurant. He wanted to show Tea some of his culture and what better way to do it than food. Sam got one of his favorites, barbacoa tacos. Tea didn’t know what to get so he gave her some suggestions. He went with pretty basic ones, but good nonetheless, like carnitas or pollo asado. She liked the sound of the carnitas and went with them.

The food was amazing. If all Mexican food was like this, then Tea wanted more.

Throughout dinner, they talked about everything and nothing at the time. Just enjoying the food and each other was enough for them. Before they left, they also had a wonderful desert of churros on ice cream. Just like the main course, it was amazing.

Finally, Sam brought her to a park. It was the middle of autumn and the reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees were a new sight for Tea. She was so shocked to see trees with different colored leaves. The forest they lived in was only ever filled with evergreens. These vibrant, wonderful colors were like a dream, except it wasn’t a dream.

It was real.

Real as the hand that was holding hers. Tea looked over to Sam who had the calmest look on his face. His body was framed by the falling leaves and was highlighted by the setting sun. Even with all the beauty of the park surrounding her, she couldn’t look anywhere else but him. His eyes were a magical thing. Amidst the color of the leaves, they popped out and shined, brightening anything they looked at.

And they were looking directly at her.

They were so filled with love and pride for her. Sam was the luckiest man in the world. To have such a sweet girl to call his own. A loving smile lit up his face.

Now's the perfect time.

Sam got onto his left knee, pulling a black little box out of his back pocket. He looked up at the love of his life.

“Ever since I met you Tea, my days have been a lot less lonely. Every morning when I wake with you in my arms, I have to have a good reason to get out of bed. Something better than staying with you. There’s almost nothing better than that. But this morning I found a pretty good reason. To spend the whole day with you and,” motioning to the box, “this.”

He opened the black box and a small ring laid inside.

“Ti’cleo, my Sweet Tea. Will you marry me?”

Through her time with Sam, Tea learned a lot about human culture. She knew that marriage was one of the most important things in it. It was their equivalent to choosing a mate. Sam really wanted to spend the rest of his life with her.

“Oh ancestors, Yes!” She jumped into his arms, giving him the biggest nuzzles and licks and kisses. “Yes, my mate! Yes!”

The happiest tears were flowing down both their eyes. For both of them, this was the best day of their lives, one they would never forget.

Sam whispered in her ear, “Oh, Ti’cleo. I love you.”

“I love you too, my mate. My Sam.”

Some of the onlookers bore happy smiles on their faces. Two such onlookers were an alligator and human couple, remembering when they first met and their proposal. The alligator had a nice round belly that she was rubbing absentmindedly. It was always nice to see another happy couple. 

Sam decoupled from his new wife just long enough to put on the beautiful ring he got her. It had a small emerald on it, the color close to the tips of her feathers and the vibrance of her eyes. It looked so beautiful on her. It complemented the whites and browns of her coat, while matching the aforementioned tips of her feathers and eyes.

Afterwards he brought her in for another big kiss. This time it was long and loving, their tongues playing with each other.

Maybe a minute later, the pair finally parted lips, not without some last licks and nips from both parties. They got up, hand and hand, and walked the rest of the path back to Sam’s truck.

Tea noticed the pregnant gator as they walked by. She held a wonderful smile, congratulating her. Tea looked at her belly and thought,

Soon, soon.

*****

On one lazy afternoon, where Sam had a day off, they laid next to each other on the bed. Sam had one of his arms wrapped around Tea’s shoulder, holding her close, and the other was holding one on Tea’s hands.

He couldn't be happier in that moment.

Tea turned her head to look at Sam, the man she loved, her mate. She then looked down at the hand he was holding. It was the one with the ring on it. He was absentmindedly running his fingers over it, a constant reminder of his love. She looked back up at him.

I’m ready.

“Sam.”

“Hmm?”

“I’ve been thinking for a bit and I think I’m ready.” She had his full attention now. Even if she was ready, her feathers puffed out a little in nervousness. “Can we…can we mate?”

Sam had a feeling this question would pop up sooner rather than later, but he was still not expecting it now.

“You sure, Sweet Tea?”

“Yes. Very.”  She looked right into his eyes. “I haven’t thought about Co’naw in very long time. The last nightmare I had was a month ago. I feel so free . Free of it all. I feel comfortable in my own body again. I feel confident in myself as well. Every little step I’ve taken, every trial I’ve overcome, all the victories I’ve had.” A beaming bright smile framed her face.

“I couldn't have done it without you. So yes, I want to mate with you. If you’ll have me?”

“I’ll gladly have you.”

“Good.”

Tea took the initiative and kissed Sam. Giving him all the tongue like he liked. She explored every crevice of his mouth, like she hadn’t already mapped it to memory. She tickled the back of his throat, teasing him and making him suck a little harder on her invading muscle.

Sam’s hands started to travel her body, going places he was too scared to go before. They reached under her shirt, moved up to breast.

She wasn’t wearing a bra.

Little rascal was expecting this to happen wasn’t she.

Both his hands cupped her breast, finally able to feel how soft and pliant he always knew they were. Tea let out a surprised moan, not expecting the sudden attention to her tits. She let out even more moans as he rubbed and kneaded them like dough. They fit perfectly in his hands and felt like marshmallow pillows.

They both were in dire need of some air, all the moans and gasps of surprise depriving them of oxygen. Tea slowly slithered out her tongue, getting the last little taste of his mouth while she could. Her tongue made an audible POP when it finally left his mouth. 

They both were panting, catching their breaths, but neither stopped what they were doing. Even as Tea started taking off her shirt, Sam kept playing and teasing her boobs. When she took off the shirt, a hidden secret was revealed. Apparently the shirt was the only thing Tea had on. It was big enough to cover her private parts from view so he only now noticed her nakedness.

She really was expecting this.

Clever girl.

Tea had a very knowing smile on her face, proud of his reaction to her lack of clothes.

“I’m all naked hon, now it’s your turn to show the goodies. I’ll even help.”

Her tail snuck it was to the hem of his pjs, hooking around them and pulling them down. His feet gave a little bit of trouble but soon, his aching member was free for her to see. Apparently like her, he opted out of wearing underwear as well, though she doubted he had the foresight of what was gonna happen today. It didn’t matter, her prize was there. 

She moved her head down to his member, though reluctantly because it would mean his kneading would stop. Now that she was here, in front of it, Tea started to get a little nervous. Didn’t think this far ahead. 

Would he like it? What if I accidently bite him?

Her worries were washed away by his touch. His hand started scratching just behind where her ear would be, her favorite place to get scratched. She leaned into his touch, knowing that whatever happened, everything would be ok.

Confidence restored, Tea went in for the sniff test. Filling her sinuses with his scent, this time it was more musky and undoubtedly male. It made her go wild like when she first met him, only now she was in more control over her body and mind. She wouldn’t let herself go down that route, never again.

Sniff test over, now it was time for the taste test. Her tongue started at the base of the shaft, slowly moving up and up and up, until she was at the tip. She held there for a second, savoring the taste. It was different yet similar to his smell. The piney forestey smell that usually took the forefront was now much more muted here, while the chocolate smell that took the back was now in full force. It intermingled with the salty taste of sweat that built up over the day and the last few minutes of increased action.

Breathlessly, “Ancestors, it’s divine. Truly a gift from above.”

Before Sam could make a comment, Tea gave his cock another lick. Then another, and another, and another. Each time he let out a little moan of pleasure. It was his first time, her first time willingly as well. All these sensations were new to him. The wet warmth of her tongue around him, her hot breath taking in every smell she could. He was getting lost in a pleasure he’s never known but now would never forget.

For her part, Tea was getting lost in the motions. His scent and now taste had the tendency to make her mind go blank for a bit. Her hand had long since gone down to her aching, and very wet pussy. Her middle and pointer fingers pistoning in and out, while her thumb played with her bean.

Her tongue had now coiled around the base of his dick, while her lips kissed and sucked his tip. Her coiled muscle pumped up and down like a hand, squeezing whenever it made its way back to the base. Her free hand was fondling his balls, making sure no part of him was untouched and unattended to.

All the new sensations were getting to him and Sam started nearing the edge. Tea could feel it too, his twitching member, the tip spilling more pre than before, she could even feel his nuts churning up the incoming load. This only bolstered her resolve.

Her tongue pumped faster, her lips sucked harder, her hand squeezed down a little more. Even her fingers down below were moving faster.

“Fuck! Tea! I’m-AHH!”

His dam finally broke, giving Tea the glorious white treasure she was looking for. It all shot directly into her mouth, rope after rope.

She savored the salty and manly taste in her mouth, rolling it over her tongue and coating every inch of it. When she was finished, she made an audible gulp, making sure Sam heard.

“Ahhh, delicious.”

Still catching his breath, Sam said, “Why don’t I-ah-get a taste of you as well.”

Tea laid down, spreading her legs. “Please do.”

While Sam made his way down to her soaking lips, he finally took off his shirt. It was getting restraining and he didn’t want to get it too dirty. 

This close to her pussy, he finally got a good smell of her. Maybe his mind was playing tricks on him, but she smelled just like her favorite flavor of tea. The minty, tea leaf aroma filled his nose, making him shudder. When she said her pheromones could force him to like her, he didn’t really believe it. After getting a full hit of them from the source though, he didn’t doubt the validity of that claim now. Without further delay, he mashed his lips with hers, wanting more of that smell.

She tasted just like she smelled, that of minty tea. It was intoxicating, and in no time, his cock was hard as stone again..

He began to lick circles around her entrance, every now and then he’d give clit some attention. Anytime his tongue would flick inside her hole, her insides would clench down, trying to keep it in. He continued like this for a few minutes, getting thoroughly drunk on her love nectar.

It took an arduous effort to pull himself away, but he couldn’t stay down there all day, even if he wanted to. He made his way up, giving her little kisses here and there to keep the spark of pleasure alive. When he got back to her snout, he gave her another long kiss.

Tea could taste herself on his tongue and Sam could taste himself on hers. Sam only broke it so he could properly aim his member.

Tea looked down as well to help him but suddenly froze. Images of the past came back to her. Sam was in the very same position the Co’naw was. On top of her and in control.

Noticing her sudden pause, Sam made sure she was ok. “You good, Sweet Tea?”

She looked him in the eyes. He was so concerned for her, concerned that he re-opened some old wounds. He genuinely cared for her, made sure she was ok. The gleaming of the emerald on her ring caught her attention. That ring was a testament to his love and care for her. A constant reminder of such.

All those memories faded like dust in the wind. He would never hurt her, his concern for her was proof enough for this.

She nodded. “Yeah, I’m good. Just remembering how much you love me.”

Sam chuckled and smiled, “I love you a lot. It’s bigger than the whole damn forest.”

“That's quite a lot, but expected you to say the world.”

“Ha, It’s bigger than the whole world.”

“Hmmm, that’s better.”

Sam looked back down, he was still very hard and ready to go. “You ready to continue?” She nodded in affirmation. “Do you want to switch positions? This one might still stir up those memories.”

“No, I like this one. Perfect for baby making.” Sam blushed. “You are putting a baby in me, ok.”

“Yes ma’am.”

Worries subsided, Sam aimed up his member for the grand finale. He rubbed it up and down her slit, using her juices as a natural lubricant. When he was ready, he looked to Tea for a final confirmation. 

She smiled and nodded.

He slowly pierced her folds with his tip. It gave him some resistance at first, but with a little push, he jolted in.

“Ahh!”

“Ahh!”

They both simultaneously let out a moan. The feeling was heaven for the both of them. Tea’s insides were very warm and slick, with ribbing surrounding him all around. He could feel her heartbeat as her insides tightened and loosened to its rhythm.

For Tea, it was everything she imagined it to be and more. He was the perfect size, fitting like a glove around her. Even unmoving, he was touching in all the right places.

Sam started up slow, getting a feel of how to do this. Pushing all the way as deep as he could, then pulling out all the way to the tip, only to repeat the cycle again. Both were content to continue at this pace for a while. This was all new to them so they spent this time learning each other.

Learning when to tighten her hold, knowing when to buck his hips up a little more. Finding where the other likes it the most so they can tease as many moans from each other as they can.

Sam quickly learned that if he poked just right when he was fully in her, Tea would reward him with a long, pleasurable moan.

Tea found out if she clenched when his tip was the only thing in her, Sam would give her a hardy grunt.

This slow rolling could last forever though. They both wanted more, evident by Tea moving up with him whenever he bottomed out, trying to push him deeper to her core.

Sam was more than happy to oblige as he picked up the pace and began fucking her proper.

Sam also grabbed a handful of her ass, kneading them like he did her boobs.

“Ohh, yes!”

To further continue his assault, his lips latched on to one of her nipples, free and open in the air.

Tea was loving this. Loving this feeling of having a caring mate that attended to every part of her body. Made sure no part of her was left untouched. Every in and out of his dick, his fingers teasing her butt, and his suckling of her teat. Ancestors above, it was everything she wanted and more. Her tail started furiously wagging behind her.

Sam only continued to pick up the pace as he switched from one nipple to the other. Every time he thrust now, his tip would kiss her final barrier to her womb. Each time threatening to break through to give him free access to her baby maker.

The constant pounding and attention to other parts of her body brought her close to release. It felt like an incoming tidal wave that was about to smash right into her. Sam could feel the end drawing near too. His balls were clenching as they bubbled another load for his beloved.

Instincts took hold as Tea wrapped her legs around his waist, trapping him and making sure he’d never pull out. She wanted that baby. Instinct also told her to bite, to claim, but she didn’t in fear of hurting Sam. But her mouth was wide open like it was about to strike.

Knowing what claiming bites are and their significance, he detached from her breast and gave her the go ahead. “You can–ah–you can bite me. You won’t hurt me.”

“You’re sure?”

He kissed her on the snout, “Yes. I’m sure.”

Tea then lined up the shot, making sure she wouldn’t hit any vitals. She held there for a moment, still unsure if she should do it. One partially forceful thrust hit just right, and all her worries left her in an instant. She lunged forward, clamping her jaws on his left shoulder, biting down hard enough to leave a permanent mark. The whole world would know that she’s his mate, now and forever.

The sudden and sharp pain intermingled with the immense and growing pleasure. His mind was sending mixed signals to his body. Should he feel pain? Should he feel pleasure? 

In the end the pleasure won out, causing him to thrust even harder and deeper than before. This final thrust broke the dam. Literally and figuratively. Her womb finally gave way for his spewing tip to enter. He released load after load, directly seeding her and making sure she would be heavy with eggs soon.

Tea’s leg tightened around his waist even more, ensuring not a drop was wasted, as she too was overcome by orgasm. Sam’s waist was covered in her juices and scent, making sure that anyone who couldn’t see the bite mark would still know who his mate was.

They stayed locked like that for over a minute, just letting the flow of pleasure move through them. Finally, Tea’s legs decoupled from his waist, giving Sam the ability to move once again. He pulled out slowly, still very sensitive from the intense first time. The motion brought them some final jolts of pleasure as his tip popped out of her now slightly agape hole. Their combined fluids slowly flowed out before Tea closed her legs together to keep as much cum in as she can.

Sam flopped right next to her, exhausted after the hard effort. He moved his hand over to her snout and started caressing her cheek.

“I love you so so much, Ti’cleo. My Sweet Tea.”

She leaned into his touch, “I love you too, Sam. My sweet and precious mate.”

Even though it wasn’t night yet, they snuggled up together and rested in each other's arms. That night they both had the happiest dream.

*****

A few months later, and they were back on the bed again. Only this time Tea’s belly was rounded with egg. They both were rubbing her belly, excited to be new parents, and happy to be together. They were already thinking up names for the kid, both boy and girl. They wanted to keep the gender secret for now. The name didn’t matter right now though.

All that mattered was that they were together.