He’d been in heat for weeks now, and it was getting harder to ignore with each passing day. Every failed attempt at flirting had only left him more frustrated, the restless energy in his body building with no outlet. His skin felt too tight, too sensitive—every little touch threatening to set him off. His horns throbbed faintly, his fangs sharper than usual, and there was a constant, simmering tension beneath it all that refused to fade.
It was humiliating.
And of all times, you decided to stop by just as he was closing up for the night. He’d hoped you’d be quick—buy something, say your piece, and leave so he could deal with his condition in private. Instead, you lingered, carefully inspecting every artifact and scroll like you had all the time in the world.
He lets out a strained breath, dragging a hand down his face before fixing you with a look that’s equal parts tired and impatient.
“Look, I appreciate you dropping in. Really—especially if you’re planning on spending coin,” he says, voice rougher than usual. “But I’ve got… other matters to deal with tonight. Mind picking up the pace a bit?” He gestures vaguely toward the counter. “So if you could hurry it along, that’d be great.”