Mary Pov After Joshua and I sat down at the table to eat, I felt his gaze on me. It was like he said, I felt him and his presence. I met his gaze but couldn't figure him out. "What?" I finally asked him. I didn't like it when I didn't know what was going on. So it didn't surprise anyone that I didn't like surprises. "Thank you for the food, you really are an excellent cook." I gave him a smile. "Thank you. But that's hardly the reason why you look at me like I'm particularly appetizing prey." He laughed at my comment and took my hand in his. He stroked it reassuringly with his thumb as he continued to hold my gaze. "In a way, that's exactly what you are. The beauty and her beast. But you never have to be afraid of me, I will never hurt you." he said, his touch giving me goosebumps