Halfling: A Fantasy Monster Romance (Monstrous World Book 1)

“I want him, mama. He’s the best man I’ve ever met.” “Can’t blame you, I’ve seen those shoulders,” muttered Sofie into her mug.

“Is that a raccoon?” The question, from a younger sister—Blaire, he thought—cut through the tension as every eye fell on the furry face poking out of Orek’s hood.

“He’s awfully big for a baby,” Blaire told him. “That’s because he’s fat,” Sorcha muttered. “Well fed,” he corrected.

“That’s because I sneak him carrots. Don’t I?” he asked the kit, holding him up into the remaining shaft of meager light. “Look at this belly.”

Blaire’s gaze snapped up. “Sorcha!” she yelped, and then both girls were barreling for her. Weight lifted off her shoulders, and it took Sorcha a moment to realize it was her pack being taken off. Orek held it by the straps, his expression soft when he said, “Go.”

“Well, off with you then, orc-slut.” “Thank you for your kindness, hag.” The shopkeeper’s lips twitched in a grin, and Sorcha returned it half-heartedly.