Conversation and confrontation

After recovering your clothing and getting decent again, Anna is nowhere to be found. You make a mental note to have an honest conversation with her later about her feelings. In the meantime, you decide that Rachel had a good point, so you ask Maya if she would like to go out and get some brunch.

“Oh, that sounds wonderful! Can we go to one of those diners I’ve heard so much about? Are there any around here?”

You think for a moment. It’s been a while since you have been out to eat, but you’re pretty sure there’s still a small diner at the edge of town, within walking distance if you cut across the local park.

“Well, feel like taking a little walk, Maya? We can get to know each other a little bit better outside the bedroom.”

Maya giggles, “That’s probably a good idea! Let’s go, this’ll be fun!”

You take her hand and kiss her on the cheek, leading her outside into the bright morning sun. As you walk to the park you chat about small things and silly jokes, simply enjoying each other’s company. The few people you pass glance your way, staring a bit at the pretty dragon girl on your arm, but no more than anyone would stare at an attractive woman, despite her wings and tail.

As you walk through the park, Maya snuggles closer. “I’m much more comfortable here than in the city, Josh. I love nature, it reminds me of more innocent times. Do you mind if we sit under a tree and relax?”

“Not at all! I’m happy to spend time making you happy, Maya.” Stepping off the path, you sit down beside her, leaning against a tree and putting your arm around her shoulders. With a happy sigh, she folds a wing around you, closing her eyes and breathing in your scent.

After around ten minutes, you hear footsteps approaching. You open your eyes to see a pair of sneering teenage boys.

“Look, it’s one of the weird monster fuckers, cuddled up with his little lizard slut. Couldn’t keep your weird fetish in the bedroom, you weirdo?”

You feel Maya tense beside you, and you place a restraining hand on her arm. You stand, offering your hand to help Maya up, and you can see her anger at a pleasant morning ruined. You give her a meaningful look and a wink before turning to the pair accosting you.

“Is there a problem, boys? Nothing better to do than leer at Maya?”

“Oh how cute, you named your little pet. Why don’t you take it back to the dark hole you found it in.”

You sigh. There’s nothing to be gained by getting into a shouting match, or worse, a brawl. These are ignorant kids, the type of crowd you used to run with. Better to save your energy for Maya, and wait to cause a scene only when you’re actually threatened.

“Maya, I believe we have a brunch date. I don’t think we owe these children the pleasure of your company.”

Maya takes a calming breath and puts an arm around your waist, sticking her tongue out at the teens as you turn to leave.