Imara Diversifies The Beastmen World

Chapter One Hundred and Twenty Three: Smokes and Signals

As I prepared to leave and give Bai more time alone, she suddenly reached out and grabbed my hand. Her grip was tight, almost desperate, and I could feel the tension coursing through her small frame. I squeezed her hand in return, silently letting her know I was here.

Her face was stiff, eyes darting away, but she didn't let go. I didn't force her to meet my gaze—just gave her a slight nod, signaling that I understood. That I wasn't going anywhere.

We stepped into the main room together, the weight of everything unspoken pressing down on us. Parker's eyes immediately found ours. The sadness in them was impossible to ignore.

He lowered his head slightly as he approached me, a quiet vulnerability in his posture. Without hesitation, I reached out and patted his head, offering him what little comfort I could.

"Good afternoon, Imara, Bai," he greeted, his voice low, rough with unsaid emotions.

Trying to bring some normalcy back, he added, "I can start on lunch for you all since you woke up late. What would you like?"

He turned toward Bai, waiting. Hoping. But she avoided his gaze, her body pulling inward, the distance between them growing wider even as they stood just feet apart.

"It doesn't matter," Bai muttered, her voice so soft I almost missed it. It carried a weight, though—a mix of resignation and sorrow that settled heavily in the air.

The ache in my chest deepened at the sight of her like this, but instead of drawing attention to the tension, I chose to shift the mood.

"You're going to cook? I haven't had your cooking yet," I said, injecting as much excitement into my voice as I could. "I'm excited!"

Parker glanced at me, his sad smile betraying how much effort he was putting into staying composed.

"Then you've been missing out," he said, attempting a lighthearted tone. "I'm the best cook there is."

I caught sight of Bailey sitting by the window, her warm eyes already on me. She lifted her hands expectantly, clearly wanting a hug. I held up a finger.

"Give me a moment, okay?"

She nodded and turned back to the outside, seemingly content to wait.

Gabriel stood nearby in the living room, observing everything in his quiet way, ever watchful.

I turned my focus back to Parker, determined to keep the conversation flowing.

"So, what's on the menu today, Parker the Best Cook?" I teased with a grin.

A small, almost smug smile lifted the corner of his lips. His tail flicked playfully, tapping my nose, making me chuckle.

"Braised fish, rice, and veggies," he answered confidently.

I nodded, eager to keep the positive energy going. "I'm sure it'll be delicious, right, Bai?"

Both of us turned toward her, waiting. Hoping.

But Bai didn't look at us. She only nodded slightly, then turned and walked over to sit with Bailey at the window, as if seeking an escape.

My heart clenched at the sight, and I wasn't the only one who noticed. Parker's fists tightened at his sides for a brief second before he turned away, silently making his way to the kitchen.

Without another word, he started cooking.

As I watched Parker walk away, Gabriel approached with open arms, pulling me into his warmth. He wrapped me in a secure embrace, his lips pressing soft kisses all over my face, making me laugh quietly as I leaned into his affection.