Tamed by the Prince (Elven Lover) by Cathy McAllister

would know about such things. And yet he seemed to be really good at it. At least if one used the delicious smell as an indicator.
    “Do you want to stand there all day or are you going to come here and help me lay the table?” he teased, without looking up from the lettuce that he was cutting into strips.
    Cherry gave herself a nudge and crossed the lounge that was fitted out with a cosy seating area in front of the chimney and a table with four chairs by the window. The kitchen area took up a good quarter of the room and almost looked like a modern kitchen apart from the fact that there was no electrical equipment. The stove was heated with wood and likewise the oven from which came the smell of delicious bread.
    “The plates are there,” said Merlon and pointed to the cupboard. You’ll find the cutlery in the middle drawer.”
    Without a word Cherry began to lay the table, then she returned to the kitchen and leant against the work surface. Merlon had finished chopping the salad and was mixing everything together in a bowl. Then he lifted the lid of the huge roasting dish that was on the stove and the smell of roasting meat became still more intense.
    “What is it?” she asked and sniffed.
    “Bagol. That’s an animal that looks a bit like a rabbit only with a long snout and short ears. And it tastes more like wild boar than rabbit. I’m sure you’ll like it. I’m a good cook.”
    “And so modest,” she said dryly.
    Merlon grinned at her and shrugged his shoulders.
    “Elves are not raised to hide their skills under a bushel.”
    “So you’re probably the best at everything, hmm?”
    He winked.
    “Not at everything. But I’m happy to show you what I am good at.” His eyes wandered meaningfully over her body and she blushed.
    “Mind your bread doesn’t burn,” she said, without entering into his innuendo.
    Merlon studied her with an unfathomable look. She had to force herself to resist his gaze. She had sworn to herself that she would no longer show weakness in his presence. She was certain that he was not a sadist like Justin and that there was no threat of physical danger from him. But the danger that he presented to her heart should not be underestimated. Just looking at him made her body tingle and she knew that he could smell her desire. She could see his nostrils slightly quiver and a knowing expression enter his eyes. She cursed her tell-tale body.
    “The food’s nearly ready. Do go and sit down,” he said at last, as if the tension between them had never existed.
    Cherry looked away somewhat too hastily and murmured a shaky ‘OK’.
    “Do you like wine?” asked Merlon from the kitchen.
    Cherry had already sat down at the table and was restlessly putting the cutlery straight.
    “Yes. That would be … yes, please.”
    Merlon appeared with a jug and two silver cups and put everything onto the table. Then he served the roast with vegetables that Cherry did not recognise. They looked like beans, only these were red and in pairs. He also offered her fresh bread, and butter seasoned with herbs. He poured the wine and made a toast.
    “To peace?”
    She nodded and they both put their cups to their lips. The wine tasted superb. It was a strong red colour and tasted a little of blackberries with a hint of almonds. It was not sweet, quite dry. After a few sips, though, she realised that it was stronger than the light taste suggested. She would have to be careful not to drink too much. The alcohol was already affecting her.
    “Try the Bagol,” said Merlon and looked at her expectantly.
    She cut a piece of the dark meat and put it into her mouth. She closed her eyes involuntarily as she began to chew and the taste of the tender meat exploded on her tongue.
    “Hmmm,” she said and forgot the tense situation she was in. “That is good!”
    “I told you,” said Merlon with satisfaction.
    Cherry opened her eyes and looked at him. Her heart warmed to the beautiful smile he was giving her. It was not