Beauty, in the Beast World

Fires of Affection

{Gonna time skip here.}

Lila sat by the fire, her eyes drifting to the rain pattering softly against the cave entrance. The rhythmic sound of raindrops on the stone was oddly soothing, yet it couldn't quite mask her restlessness. It had been four days since Atlas had gone out hunting, and the cave had begun to feel increasingly confining.

Zache sat across from her, stirring a pot of soup with a thoughtful expression. The warmth of the fire contrasted sharply with the cool, damp weather outside, and the smell of simmering vegetables and herbs filled the cave, making Lila's stomach rumble in anticipation.

"You've been so patient," Zache said with a comforting smile. "Atlas will be back soon with the fish and stone fruit you wanted."

Lila sighed, her gaze returning to the rain. "I appreciate everything he does for me, but I feel like I'm just waiting all the time. I want to do more, to help out somehow." She paused, glancing over at Zache. "I feel like I'm becoming a bit of a burden."

Zache's expression softened. "You're not a burden, Lila. Atlas cares for you deeply, and he wants to make sure you're comfortable. It's just that... you've been through so much. He's trying to make sure you're healthy and strong."

Lila nodded, her gaze thoughtful. The small changes in her body had been encouraging—Atlas had noticed the weight she had gained, and Kael's reassurances about her health had lifted her spirits. Still, the confinement of the cave and her growing feelings for Atlas had made her yearn for more.

As she was lost in her thoughts, Zache stirred the pot, his movements steady and practiced. "You know, Atlas has been talking about taking you on a short trip outside the village once the weather clears up. He thinks it might be good for you to get some fresh air and see more of the world outside the cave."

Lila's eyes brightened at the thought. "Really? That sounds wonderful. I would love to explore more."

Zache nodded. "He's very thoughtful. I think he's trying to give you some space to feel more independent and less confined. Plus, he's been hinting about finding a place where the two of you can be alone together."

Lila's heart skipped a beat. The idea of spending private time with Atlas, away from the eyes of the tribe, was both exciting and nerve-wracking. She knew that being alone with him was an opportunity she couldn't afford to miss if she wanted to solidify their bond.

Just as she was about to voice her thoughts, the sound of footsteps echoed from the cave entrance. Atlas walked in, his broad shoulders drenched from the rain but his expression bright with satisfaction. In his hands, he carried a bundle of freshly caught fish and ripe stone fruit.

"Ah, I see my favorite two are still here," Atlas said with a grin as he set the food down. "I hope you've been well, Lila. I managed to get a good haul today."

Lila stood up, her eyes sparkling as she approached him. "Thank you, Atlas! The food looks amazing."

Atlas's gaze softened as he looked at her. "I'm glad you think so. I thought you might enjoy some fresh fish and stone fruit. It's been a while since we had a good meal together."

As they prepared the food, Atlas's demeanor was warm and attentive. He seemed to sense Lila's eagerness, though he remained focused on making sure she had everything she needed.

After the meal, as they sat together enjoying some of the baked stone fruit, Atlas's eyes met Lila's with a thoughtful expression. "The weather should clear up soon. When it does, I was thinking of taking you out to a place I know. It's beautiful and peaceful, and it might be just what you need."

Lila's heart fluttered at Atlas's words. "That sounds wonderful. I'd really like that," she said, her voice filled with excitement.

Then a thought struck her. "Zache," she called out, "could you please take some of the fish soup and the baked stone fruit to Isla? I told her how good they were the last time we played, and she was so excited. I promised I'd send some to her when we had them again."