Lucien
I made my way to Malaka’s home across the palace gardens. The door to the home was already open, and I strode in.
“Sandals off,” came Malaka’s voice.
I grinned, taking them off my feet and placing them outside. She walked out of the kitchen holding a wood spoon.
“Are your feet clean?” she asked, sternly.
“Malaka! You act as though I wouldn’t bathe before the honour of dining in your home,” I said in mock outrage.
She laughed, hugging me and welcoming me in to sit. I went to the dining quarters, where the table had already been set. Mama Cassia and Sakina sat, deep in conversation. Goddess, she was breathtaking. Her dark skin almost seemed to glow under the lanterns, her mane of hair around her face making her seem more lion than wolf. Just once, I wanted to run my fingers
