Teasing and temptation

The next day, you have to endure some knowing looks from the other girls. Maya in particular teases you endlessly. “Developing a taste for big, muscular girls, my Josh? I could work out a bit more, bulk up a little for you.”

You chuckle. “You know you’re perfect how you are, Maya. Just concentrate on staying healthy, miss breeder.”

Maya laughs. “Don’t call me that! Makes me sound like a science experiment! Call me your baby factory instead.”

You both laugh, and you give her a kiss. “You’re my beautiful dragon girl, and you’re carrying our beautiful child. I’m going to build a world that’s safe for them to grow up in.”

Maya smiles and kisses you back. “Just keep yourself safe, my Josh. That’s all I ask.”

As you’re smiling at each other, Ruka walks up. “I hate to interrupt you two lovebirds, but I’d like to talk to Josh before we arrive at the Court of Seasons.”

You nod, and Ruka falls into step beside you. Maya bounces off to talk to Anna and Lynn. Ruka watches her go, smiling. “I don’t remember ever seeing her so happy. She’s...told me a lot about you.”

You nod. “All good things, I hope.”

She chuckles. “That’s just it, to hear her tell it, you’re some kind of perfect being. As if you were created to be her perfect match.”

You smile at Ruka. “Well, don’t tell her, but I’m cheating on her with ten other girls...”

Ruka laughs, shaking her head. “Believe me, we all know. You and Uzume were not quiet last night.”

You blush, grinning. “Honestly, I’m not used to keeping quiet about that stuff. We’re...pretty open in this family.”

“So I hear. And all the girls are...in on the family thing?”

You nod. “To the point where several of them are asking me to impregnate them. It’s...a whole thing.”

Ruka giggles. “It’s astonishing! They all love you, and there seems to be love between them as well. I...I want to ask. Do you think you could make room for one more?”

You look at her, surprised. “Really? We barely know each other. Are you sure you want to be a part of this?”

Ruka nods, her face growing serious. “I’ve talked about it with Maya. My family is...gone. The demon lord’s forces are not gentle conquerors. I...I want to be a part of your family, share the love that all of you share.”

You smile. “Of course, Ruka. You’re welcome among us. You do know that you don’t need to...sleep with anyone if you don’t want, right?”

Ruka’s green cheeks darken in a blush.“Well...that ship sailed already. Listening last night was...interesting. Maya invited me to her tent and, well, we relaxed together.”

You chuckle. “It’s like she’s a recruiter. Well, I don’t mind if that’s what you want, Ruka. And if you ever want to share my bed, you have an open invitation.”

She chuckles. “I just might take you up on that, Josh.”