One second she looked at him like a female did a male and the next it was down her nose. Like he was something the mountain lion dragged in.

Coal was used to taking what he coveted but in this case, he needed to back off. It was the last thing he wanted but he would need to force himself. It wasn’t that he felt anything for the human besides a passing interest. She should be thankful not willful. Insolent human. As much as he wanted to throw her out, he had been given a task to do and it would eat at him until he achieved it.

The door behind them closed with a click. He tried to look at his chamber through her eyes. It was big and facing one of the best views of the valley. His bed was enormous, the ceiling high. Even his tub was in his main living area. He enjoyed looking out across the vast mountains of the fire kingdom while bathing. There was a bathroom to the side with all the amenities, including a shower but he rarely used it. There was a cooking area on the opposite side. It was well appointed. They lived in the wild but enjoyed some measure of civility.

They might be a private species but they still enjoyed the luxuries of running water and electricity. The second, generated by the nearby waterfall.

Julie remained frozen in place, her gaze fixed on the large window that made up the whole front of his chamber. It was one-way glass.

“Beautiful isn’t it?” He allowed his eyes to trace the peaks and valleys, the greens, browns and whites of the countryside. The sky was a perfect blue with wisps of clouds, streaked across a small section of the vast skyline.

“Yes.” She breathed out the word.

“You should see it during an electrical storm. The stars at night are enough to bring tears to your eyes as well.”

“I’ve never seen anything quite like it.” Her eyes were wide. “It almost feels like we’re on top of the world.” Each word was soft spoken and filled with awe.

“Shall I run you a bath?” he offered. “The view is better from in there.”

“Um…” Her heartrate increased dramatically. “No!” She shook her head. “Is there a more private tub that I could use… please.” He could scent her… not fear… more like nervousness.

What was she nervous about? Was she ashamed of her naked body?

Maybe she needed prompting. “I would not mind if you were to disrobe.”

“Okay.” She didn’t sound too sure. She looked at him like he wasn’t in complete command of his faculties. “That’s good to know. I would still prefer privacy. A door that locks would be fantastic.”