Lion Head Mesa Cobra

“I do not fear you, Mazoi.”

At least, not in the way he thinks. Not in the way he fills this small chamber with the span of his shoulders and the warmth of his breath, nor the desire in his eyes when she looks there. It is not even the way he holds himself in armored stone.

He did scare her- because she suspects they are playing a similar game.

She’d been honest with Zaahira, given companionship and it devolved into ruin. It was a mistake that would not repeat where the Mazoi are concerned. And it is easy to fall into an appeasing role, like a switch. Serviceable; agreeable.

“You are wanted.” She rises as he reclines.

“I can tell you how,” She reaches for the empty bowl. “It is funner to show you how.”