And then it was over, and he collapsed beside her, utterly spent and exhausted. His heart hammered furiously in his chest, so much so that he did not think he would be able to sleep, but exhaustion pulled at him far more quickly than expected. Lying beside her, his eyes slipped closed before he could so much as answer her question. Weary from the coupling, and more carefree than he usually was.

It did not matter if she sniffed her teacup, bonded with her bird, or snooped around. She could not leave, and that was all that mattered. She would find no evidence that what he said was anything but the truth. Head buried in his bedding, he let sleep claim his weary body.

"Speech"

Confused, and still reeling Demelza watched as he flopped down next to her. Her body still throbbed as he fell asleep, her question unanswered. She was exhausted for certain and her limbs shook with the effort to peel her body up. She had to check that cup. She had to. She pulled her nose close to the cup that had held her tea. There was certainly something off about the herbs in it. She had fallen asleep with the tea not energized or nourished. She sighed. Her symptoms were more subdued now and she looked at this man who held her captive. Draped languidly on the bedding, knowing she could not take a step outside. Her own body was trembling and eager for sleep. She crawled into the bed next to him. Her eyes roved over his muscular handsome body. The embodiment of fire and brimstone itself. Some high rank now she supposed, not that she knew of any other packmates. Would he ever let her mingle? Even with the other slaves?

She laid her head over his arm and snuggled in next to him. Uncertain and her mind felt foggy about what she was feeling for him. Her sleep took her quickly, and she would not rise early.

"speech"

coded by NachoMumma