Chapter 34

                                    

                                          
The understanding we reached that day, when he accepted my offer of companionship, is now solidified.

After going through the list of herbs, we shift our focus to the meat Darius brought from his hunt.

I look at the unfamiliar cut, its texture and appearance intriguing.

"Darius, what kind of meat is this?" I ask, genuinely curious.

Darius considers the question, his gaze thoughtful.

"It's from an unknown creature, one that runs fast and is quite elusive. We've observed it feeding on plants, even though it doesn't seem to be exclusively herbivorous. It's a bit of a mystery, really."

As I roast the meat over the fire, the aroma wafts through the air, and my eyes light up in realization.

"This... this tastes like lechon baboy! (Roasted pig)," I exclaim, a hint of excitement in my voice.

Darius and Curtis exchange surprised glances, clearly intrigued by my reaction.

"Roasted pig? Is that a delicacy where you come from?" Curtis asks.

I nod, a nostalgic smile tugging at my lips.

"Yes, it's a popular dish back home. We often roast a whole pig for special occasions, and the flavor is just... amazing."

Curtis grins, his eyes twinkling. "Well, if this meat can remind you of home, then we must be onto something good."

The scent of the roasting meat fills the cave, and my stomach rumbles in anticipation.

I can't help but share my plan for dinner. "You know what? I think I'll roast some belly pork tonight, using techniques I learned for that dish. It'll be a taste of home, even if it's not exactly the same."

As the meat slowly cooks over the crackling fire, our conversation takes on a more contemplative tone.

The warm, inviting aroma of the roasting meal fills the air, wrapping us in a cocoon of comfort.

It's during this tranquil moment that Darius speaks, his voice carrying a quiet intensity.

"Julie," he begins, his eyes meeting mine with a mix of earnestness and vulnerability, "there's something I'd like to do before we rest for the night."

I turn my gaze toward him, sensing the significance of his words.

The dancing flames cast playful shadows on his face, accentuating the patterns of his striped form.

I nod, my curiosity piqued. "What is it, Darius?"

His features soften, his gaze unwavering.

"In our world, marking is a way of establishing a bond, a connection that goes beyond words. It signifies trust, loyalty, and a shared journey."

His words hang in the air, carrying a weight that extends beyond their mere syllables.

In that moment, I realize the depth of his intentions, the gravity of what he's proposing.

I look into Darius' eyes, a gentle smile gracing my lips.

"Darius," I say, my voice soft yet resolute, "I appreciate your offer. I feel the same way, and I truly value our bond."

His eyes hold a mixture of relief and warmth, silently acknowledging our shared emotions.

The evening sky gradually darkens, and the first stars begin to twinkle overhead.

It's as if the universe itself bears witness to this pivotal moment.

Darius steps closer, his movements deliberate yet tender.

His gaze never leaves mine, a connection forged in the depths of our souls.

As he reaches out, his fingers trace a path along my skin, leaving a trail of tingling sensations in their wake.

The touch is electrifying yet gentle, a testament to the care with which he approaches this act.

"I want to mark you," he whispers, his voice a mere breath against the backdrop of nature's symphony. "To solidify our connection, to offer you my loyalty and protection."

I feel my heart flutter, a mixture of emotions swirling within me.

Gratitude, longing, and a profound sense of unity merge into a single sentiment.

"Darius," I reply, my voice barely above a whisper, "I accept."