Imara Diversifies The Beastmen World

Chapter Eight: Mutual Epiphany of Attraction

After spending a couple of hours writing in my notebook, I began preparing for lunch. I planned a spicy fish hotpot and had even packed the ingredients to carry down to the lake, thinking it would be nice to cook with Bai Qingqing. As I gathered things, I noticed a carved-out pot—a design I'd mentioned to Harvey only days ago. A warm smile spread across my face, and I felt my heart grow light, knowing he'd remembered.

Seeing some bamboo near the pots of herbs Harvey had gathered, I took out my pocketknife, inspired to make bamboo cutlery. Using Harvey's own carved spoon as a guide, I started crafting. It felt nice, adding a little touch of home here. As I carefully finished shaping the cups, I filled them with water, setting them beside the other things I'd packed for later.

The sun had climbed high by the time I finished, and I noticed Harvey was still resting. I prepared some lamb skewers and filled urns with water to warm up his bath. His ears were upright, showing he was aware, but he hadn't stirred since falling asleep.

Finally, I gently rubbed his ears and head, waking him up with soft affection. "Harvey, sweetie, it's time to wake up and eat," I murmured, watching as he slowly came back to himself, his face softening as he exhaled.

He slowly opened his eyes, and a soft exhale escaped him as he came to, resting his head in my lap. His face seemed troubled, as if he were caught between reality and the remnants of a dream.

Harvey's Dream

I was running through the forest, calling her name, but the trees felt like a maze, trapping me. Imara's scent was faint, barely enough to guide me. I called out again, desperation fueling every step as my paws tore into the earth. Then I heard it—a scream. The sound sent terror shooting through me, urging me forward.

Finally, I saw her, but a feral was there, already claiming his prize. I threw myself at him, teeth bared, claws slicing through the air, but he morphed, meeting me in the clash. He was stronger, faster. My shoulder seared with pain as he flung me into a tree, my vision dimming as I watched him carry Imara away. Her scream faded, echoing painfully in my mind as darkness took me.

End of Harvey's Dream

I jolted awake, my heart racing, only to feel a gentle hand soothing my head. Imara was here, her voice soft as she told me it was time to eat. Relief washed over me, though the remnants of the dream lingered, unsettling and bitter. I couldn't protect her, and the feeling was agonizing.

As I came fully awake, I saw her sitting beside me, her eyes filled with concern. "Harvey, are you alright?" she asked softly, her voice grounding me.

I nodded, trying to shake off the lingering weight of the dream, though I couldn't completely dismiss it.

Imara's POV

I said softly, "Harvey, are you still feeling sleepy? Try to wake up a little; I need you to freshen up and eat." I pointed to the tub I'd prepared, and he blinked in surprise. "You did all this... for me? You shouldn't have. I should be the one taking care of you," he protested, his voice a mixture of gratitude and gentle reproach.

I hushed him with a small smile. "I wanted to. Now come on, let's go." Taking his hands, I helped him up, leading him toward the tub. I handed him a soft rag and some soap, explaining how to use them as he listened quietly, his gaze focused. "Just meet me in the front room when you're done," I added, giving him a reassuring look.

Harvey nodded, his eyes soft, before silently turning back to the bath I'd prepared.

As I turned away to give him some privacy, I heard him undo his robe. My heart skipped a beat, and I quickly turned back to grab his robe, pretending I wanted to put it with the dirty clothes to clean at the lake. In truth, I couldn't resist stealing a glance at his front side.