Compilation Of Short Stories
The air always smelled of her.
And she demanded praise.
It started small. “Do you like the stew, Rykor?” she’d ask, her head tilted.
“It’s great, thanks,” he’d mumble, shoveling it in.
A delicate frown. “That’s it? Just ‘great’? I simmered the bones for twelve hours. I infused the broth with star anise and a whisper of black cardamom. I want to know what it makes you feel.”
Flustered, he’d try again. “It’s incredible, Everett. It’s rich and deep, and it makes me feel cared for.”