Talek had been the only one bold enough to ask why my mate had not returned with me to the village. Of course, the kit has never been reluctant or hesitant to constantly ask questions. Even ones that are not appropriate. Sorin encourages him, since his nene Iris says asking questions is the only way to learn.
Piper did not appear ready to fully accept the fact we are mates, and as difficult as it might be, I will be patient. We have the rest of our lives to spend together. I can wait until she is ready to leave the human settlement and reside here, in the village, with me. I will even concede to living with the humans if that is what she prefers, although it will be an adjustment. But no less of one than I would ask of her by coming here.
My trek through the forest is a quick one. I am anxious to see Piper so I do not waste time. Far faster than I have ever made the trip, I reach the gates of the settlement that are open. The two males that stand at attention on either side of the entrance track my movements. I nod in greeting, but continue walking passed them. It is when I am halfway across the length of the village that I realize I do not know which tent belongs to my mate.
“Can I help you?” An elder female approaches.
“I am looking for Piper.”
The female takes in my mating marks and raises one of the furred lines above her eyes. “Her tent is in the back. I can take you there.”
“You have my thanks.”
With the elder in the lead, we make our way through the settlement. The humans are familiar enough with the Tavikhithat our presence is not worthy of much attention now. At last, we come to a stop in front of a tent that is barely big enough for one person and the elder bids me farewell. Piper will have far more room sharing a tent with me than she does now.
I smack the door flap to announce myself. Only two beats pass before it swings back and mykeeshlaappears. Her eyes are red and there are dark smudges beneath them as if she did not sleep well. Yet her face lights up in a way that causes my soul light to brighten in response.
“Good morning, Katem.”
“Blessed morning to you. Are you well?”
Piper waves me off. “I’m fine. Just need to put my shoes on and I’ll be ready, I think.”
“I shall wait out here.”
“Thank you.” She ducks inside and my gaze wanders around the settlement.
Will there ever come a time when my mate does not say she is fine? That she will share her burdens with me? My hope is yes, she will. In the meantime, I will continue to be present and perhaps soon, Piper will realize she does not always have to pretend to be fine.
As she predicted, only moments pass and she steps out of her tent. I scan the length of her. She is suitably attired in a chest covering that goes well with her coloring and long leg coverings that are trim in the waist and follow the curved flare of her hips. Her foot coverings appear sturdy and good for walking. I lift my gaze and meet Piper’s eyes. Her cheeks have darkened, but she does not glance away.
“Is my outfit acceptable for hiking?”
“You look perfect.”
Her smile is shy and small, but I can tell my compliment pleases her. “Thank you.”
“Shall we begin our journey?”
She breathes in deeply and straightens her shoulders. “Let’s go.”
With mykeeshlaat my side, we make our way out of the settlement and toward the hills in the distance. I let Piper set the pace.
“I brought water and a few things to eat so if you get hungry or thirsty, you need only let me know.”
“Oh my god, I didn’t even think to ask if I should bring anything. I’m sorry.” She touches my arm briefly, but I feel it throughout my entire body.
“There is no need to be sorry. I will make sure you are taken care of.” Always.
“Thank you.” Piper chuckles. “I feel like I’m always thanking you for something.”
“Will you cease if I tell you it is not necessary?” I offer her a smile.
“Probably not.”
“Then think nothing more of it and know that everything I do for you is done with my pleasure.”
Piper pauses in the middle of the field, forcing me to stop as well and face her.
