Protected by the Alien Warrior by Fern Fraser

Author:Fern Fraser [Fraser, Fern]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-01-18T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 11

Nessa

We reach a gap in the trees, and Zaryk announces, “This looks suitable.”

I sigh with relief. Tired and hungry, I drop my pack on the mossy ground, glad to be off my feet for a while. I settle on the fallen log, stretching my legs with a groan.

Zaryk shrugs off his pack and scans the perimeter, vigilant for threats. His protectiveness makes my heart swell.

As long as he's near, nothing can harm me. He glances over, amusement flickering in his eyes.

“I'm not built for these wilderness treks.” I give him a wry look. “I'm a soft city girl.”

His mouth quirks. “You did well today.”

The praise warms me. It means something, coming from a hardened warrior like Zaryk. He unsheathes a dagger and hands it to me.

“I will catch us something to eat. Stay alert, and do not stray too far.”

I take the dagger, nodding. “Wouldn't dream of it. Not after last time.”

He cocks an eyebrow, the ghost of a smile flirting with the stern set of his mouth. “I only forbid things for your protection.”

I make a face at him. “Bossy Pants.”

He lifts an eyebrow. “What's wrong with my leg coverings?”

I laugh, realizing he doesn't get the meaning. “No, I meant you're bossy. It's just an expression.”

Understanding dawns on his face. “Clever girl. I'll remember that 'Bossy Pants,'” he says with a wink.

I grin, poking at the kindling. Although he can be overbearing, his protectiveness makes me smile.

“I will return shortly,” he says, slipping into the trees.

“Be careful,” I call after him.

After Zaryk leaves, I wander slowly through the underbrush, foraging for edible plants. Zaryk has kept me safe and well-fed on our journey.

It's my turn to take care of him tonight. Although surprising someone who has seen and done so much is hard, I'll try.

As promised, I push further into the brush but stay within the bounds. A cluster of wild garlic grows amidst the ferns a few feet away.

“Score,” I whisper to myself, a grin tugging at my lips.

I carefully dig around the base of the plant, cradling it in my hand before tugging it free. The scent of wild onions hits me, sharp and pungent.

It's a good size, not too small, but not overly mature. I repeat the process until I have a handful of onions.

Nearby, I spy more plants. Garlic and onions? Mushrooms too. The universe must be on my side today. I carefully cut each mushroom from its stem with Zaryk's dagger, adding them to my collection.

As I rise to my feet, I feel a surge of pride. I did this. Me. The girl who used to order takeout every night because she couldn't be bothered to cook.

A thrill rushes through me as I imagine Zaryk's face when he tastes dinner. There's enough food for a feast and maybe a way into his hearts—both of them.

I’m making my way back to camp when a soft rustle in the underbrush causes me to freeze. But the forest remains silent.

It's just the wind or a small creature going about its business.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.