Dinner with the Beast
The Beast gave a slight bow and held out his hand. “I’ll have that dagger, if you don’t mind.”
She drew back. “I… I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“You hold a weapon that is sheathed in your boot. I was polite enough to allow you to keep it last night, but now you’re my guest as long as this agreement binds us. I offer you food and shelter, and as a courtesy, it is reasonable for me to prefer not to be harmed by you.” He paused, studying her again. “I would also prefer you not harm yourself.”
She frowned at him. “I know how to use a weapon. I won’t accidentally cut myself.”
“Accidental cuts are not what I mean.”