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I laugh, shaking my head. "Of course.”

When we reach the edge of the village, instead of taking the main road, Ren veers toward the forest. “I believe we’ll be safer if we stick to the woods. Less chance of running into trouble.”

He shifts into his fox form and I climb onto his back as we set out into the woods.

CHAPTER 35

RAPUNZEL

After a few hours, hard rain begins pelting us mercilessly. Ren races through the trees, his muscles rippling beneath me with every graceful leap as I cling tightly to his fur.

The sound of rushing water up ahead draws my attention. Ren slows as we approach a massive waterfall, the shimmering water cascading down the cliff face wall before it spills into a large pool below.

Ren lowers himself to the ground and I slide off his back. As my feet hit the damp earth, he shifts into his two-legged form. “There’s a place to shelter nearby. I found it when I traveled through this area a few weeks ago.”

My cheeks heat as I track the small rivulets of water running down his bare chest before I force myself to look away. “Are you not cold?”

“I’m a Fox.” He flashes a roguish grin that stops my heart. “We’re a rather hearty people.” He offers me his hand, and I slipmy palm into his without hesitation. “Now, come. Let’s get you warm.”

He leads me into a narrow passage between the cliff face and the falling water until we reach a secret cavern, hidden from the outside world.

The cave is surprisingly warm. Luminous crystals embedded in the walls emit a faint glow, guiding our path. There’s a small pool near the back, with steam rising enticingly from the surface.

Ren releases my hand. “You should get out of those wet clothes and into the warm water while I prepare some food.”

The idea of a bath is too tempting to ignore. Despite my nerves, when he turns his back, I shed my sodden cloak and dress, leaving me in only my undergarments.

I watch as Ren sets up a small fire in the center of the cave and arranges our bedding for the night. The muscles in his broad shoulder and back flex as he works, his movements graceful despite his tall, muscular form.

Finik scurries up to him. Sitting back on his haunches, he rests two paws on Ren’s foot to get his attention, his little nose and whiskers twitching as he releases a series of chirruping sounds.

Ren chuckles, and pulls out a handful of berries and some cheese from our pack. “I haven’t forgotten about you, my friend.” He sets it on a rock nearby, and Finik releases a squeak of delight, immediately diving into his feast. He shoves two berries and a piece of cheese into his mouth, his tiny cheeks puffed out comically as he chews.

My heart melts as Ren pulls out Finik’s blanket and pillow from our pack and arranges it on a soft bed of moss near the fire. “There.” He grins. “A bed fit for a squirrel king,” he teases.

When he’s finished eating, Finik waddles over to his bed and turns in a wide circle before collapsing onto his side. He curls histail around himself and yawns as Ren strokes his fur. “Sleep well, my friend,” he murmurs.

I love how attentive Ren is to Finik. He knows how important my squirrel is to me, and he always makes sure to take care of him.

“I’m going to bring you some clothes, all right?” he calls over his shoulder.

My pulse quickens as he walks toward me, purposefully averting his eyes as I approach the edge of the pool.

He kneels and dips one finger into the water, considering, before arches a playful brow. “It’s a bit more rustic than an inn, but it has its charm, don’t you agree?”

I laugh. “Yes.”

He sets down a plate with some dried meat, fruits, and nuts from our supplies. “I’ll leave this for you.” He gestures to a towel and a fresh nightshift. “I’ll be back shortly. I’m going to check the surrounding area to make sure we’re alone for the evening. Call out if you need me, and I’ll hear you. I’ll make sure to remain close by.”

He flashes a quick smile before leaving the cavern, disappearing into the night.

It doesn’t take him long, and by the time he returns I’m dressed in my nightshift, sitting atop one of the blankets he’s laid out near the fire.

His hair is damp and tousled from the rain as he sits beside me, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Missed me terribly, didn’t you?” He teases. “I can tell by your pining expression.”

“Of course, I did,” I joke in return. “Did you miss me as well?”

I regret the question as soon as it leaves my mouth when his expression turns serious, reminding me that we still haven’t talked about our kiss in the garden.