Warmth of Fire
#2 of SFW Short Stories
A short story from Christmas 2022.
Out by the fireplace, a figure is shadowed by the flame in front of them, restrained by an iron gate and bricks around it, funneling smoke through a chimney. Crackling of burning wood seemed relaxing to the being beside it, who appeared barely awake.
That figure is a humanoid reptile, brown in color, and lacking any clothes. She lied on her side, but couldn't find enough comfort to sleep.
Suddenly, somebody else stepped from the shadows, draping a thick, woolen blanket atop them, and a pillow close by.
You lie down on the carpet with her, and gently coaxed her into relaxing their head on the pillow with reassuring whispers. Her back was cold to the touch, but as you wrap your arms around her belly, you notice that it was much warmer. The scales against her back were rough and bumpy, sharply contrasted by the smooth texture of her belly scutes, like glass.
She crooned gently, feeling you against her back that quickly grew warmer, and your hands massaging her midsection. You could feel her heart and breathing slow to a crawl almost as quickly as you arrived. As you felt her drift to sleep, you got more comfortable, making sure not to disturb her.
Getting comfy, you kiss her neck softly, and drift off to sleep yourself.