Page 13 of Carnal: The Beast Who Loved Me

CHAPTER THREE

When Rosie opened her door the next morning intending to shuffle toward the shared bathroom, she found clothes and boots neatly folded just outside her door. She picked them up and saw that they were similar to what she’d seen other women wearing. There was a long sleeve moss green tee that brought out the green in her eyes, a rust and black print wraparound skirt, and brown combat boots. She gathered up the bundle and took it to the bathroom with her. In the privacy of the bath, she used magick for purposes of hygiene and making her hair presentable.

The skirt fell to just about an inch above the tops of the boots. She didn’t know which one of her hosts had picked out the clothes, but the fit was perfect so she wasn’t complaining.

When she arrived in the kitchen, Serene was drinking tea and seemed to be waiting for her.

“Good morning.”

“Good morning, Rosie.”

“Did you leave these clothes for me?’

“Yes. I hope they’re alright.”

“More than alright. You got the size just right.” She chuckled. “Well, I guess you can see that for yourself.”

Serene nodded. “There’s tea and breakfast in the warming oven.” Rosie poured tea and opened doors until she figured out which was the ‘warming oven’. She withdrew a saucer with biscuits and sausage links and sat down at the table.

Serene took another sip of tea. “Later today, after you’ve had a chance to learn your way around the Commons bar and kitchen, I’ll take you to the weaving barn and you can pick out some things for yourself.”

“That’s very generous. Thank you. So you weave everything you wear?”

“Except for the leathers. And furs, of course. We trade with the humans for undergarments.”

“That’s really impressive.”

Serene shrugged. “It works for us. You can keep the shawl you wore last night or choose another.”

“That’s very kind. I can’t imagine one more beautiful.”

“What happened at the Commons last night?”

The abrupt change of subject took Rosie by surprise. “Not sure what you mean.”

“Charming said you encountered some unfriendliness. I just want to make sure you’re not feeling overwhelmed. Or… frightened.”

Rosie laughed out loud before recognizing how inappropriate that was. She realized the mistake immediately because of Serene’s reaction. Of course, a human girlwouldhave been intimidated and, almost surely, would want to leave.

“It’s probably an indication of stupidity, but I don’t scare easily.” That was the best cover she could come up with.

“Well,” Serene set her cup down, “I’m glad. If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable or gets out of line with you in any way, just come to one of us. You’re safe here, but I want you to alsofeelsafe.”

“Thank you, Serene.” Rosie took a bite of biscuit. “You all have unique and interesting names.”

Her hostess seemed to give that consideration, like seeing it from Rosie’s point of view. “I chose Serene when we came here. Our lives are so full of war, I wanted to remind myself that my goal was to give my children a sense of peace any way I could.” She gave Rosie a self-deprecating smile. “I guess that’s a silly wish coming from one of a people who’ve promised to be on battle alert until the day we die.”

Rosie felt sympathy. It was an unmistakable tug at her heart that was familiar even though she hadn’t had many opportunities to feel sorry for others. “A desire for peace isn’t silly. Isn’t that what all sane people want?”

“I… suppose.” Serene wiped her hands on her apron and lifted it over her head. “I need to go. Charming should be down any time. Walk with me to the front door so I can show you which building is the Weavers’ Barn.” Rosie accompanied Serene to the front porch. “That one over there.” Serene pointed to a large structure past the houses and on a little rise. “Anything disturbing happens, if Free or Charming are not around, either come to me or tell someone to come get me.”

Rosie gave Serene a reassuring smile. “Got it, but don’t worry. And thank you. Again.”

Serene waved as she stepped off the porch and pulled her shawl around her.

Rosie walked back to the kitchen. Charming had come down and was standing by the oven scarfing down sausages. He flashed his boyish grin and said, with his mouth full, “These are good, aren’t they?”

“I don’t know,” Rosie replied.

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