The stranger was just setting down two steaming mugs of tea on the table along with a small bowl of nuts and berries. “Eat. You must be hungry,” he said quietly. “Actually, I ate right before I slept, but thank you,” I responded as I took a seat, slipping a nut into my mouth all the same. “I’m Nicole, by the way,” I said warmly, extended my hand to shake his. “Beorn,” he stated, emphasizing the ‘orn’. As he took my hand in his, I couldn’t help but notice how long his nails were: dark, thick, and pointed. They almost looked like claws but were probably due to years of neglect. The warmth of his skin sent electricity through my body and warmed my heart; I’d never felt that strong of a pull with anyone before—let alone from a handshake. I quickly pulled my hand back, shooting him a tight, shaky smile. “So, Beorn,” I paused to see if I said his name right and carried on when he didn’t indicate otherwise, “you know where my sister is?” “Not certain,”
