MY SUGAR MUMMY IS A BEAUTIFUL VAMPIRE

As Blake and Nana walked towards the large oak tree, the forest around them seemed to come alive with the symphony of nature. Shafts of golden sunlight filtered through the dense canopy above, dappling the forest floor with patches of light and shadow. The earthy scent of moss and fallen leaves mingled with the sweet fragrance of wildflowers, creating an intoxicating aroma that filled the air.

With each step, the tension that had lingered between them seemed to dissipate, replaced by a comfortable ease born of shared moments and unspoken understanding. Nana's laughter echoed through the trees, a melodic sound that lifted Blake's spirits and chased away any lingering worries.

As they neared the oak tree, its massive trunk loomed before them like a sentinel standing guard over the forest. Its branches reached skyward, stretching towards the heavens in silent reverence. Nana's hand brushed against the rough bark as she led Blake closer, a fond smile playing at the corners of her lips.

"Here we are," she said, her voice soft with nostalgia. "This tree has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember."

Blake gazed up at the towering oak, a sense of reverence washing over him. There was something ancient and sacred about the tree, as if it held the secrets of the forest within its gnarled branches.

Nana settled onto the moss-covered roots at the base of the oak, patting the space beside her invitingly. Blake followed suit, sinking down beside her with a contented sigh. Together, they sat in companionable silence, the only sound the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chatter of woodland creatures.

For a moment, time seemed to stand still as they basked in the tranquility of the forest, sharing a connection that transcended words. And as the sunlight danced through the leaves above, casting a golden glow upon their faces, Blake couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over him, grateful for the simple beauty of this moment shared with Nana.

Just as they settled, Nana snapped her fingers, remembering something crucial. Immediately, she got up with an excited exhale walking off to a bush covered area of the oak tree.

As Nana rose gracefully and disappeared behind the massive trunk of the oak tree, Blake watched with curiosity, his gaze lingering on the shadow of Scar trailing after her like a loyal guardian. He couldn't help but wonder what she was up to, his mind spinning with possibilities as he waited for her return.

When she emerged moments later, her arms cradling a calabash, Blake's interest was piqued. Setting the calabash down in front of him, Nana flashed him a warm smile before taking a seat beside him. With a flourish, she uncovered the calabash, revealing a set of clay plates nestled within.

Blake's stomach rumbled at the sight of the delicious spread laid out before him, his mouth watering in anticipation. His gaze flicked from plate to plate as Nana began to reveal their contents, each dish more tantalizing than the last.

The first plate contained steaming boiled yam, its golden hue tempting him with its savory aroma. The second plate held a generous serving of palm oil, glistening with diced fried onions that promised to add a burst of flavor to every bite. And finally, tucked to the side, was a succulent slab of roasted meat, its juices pooling enticingly on the plate.

Blake couldn't hide his surprise as he surveyed the bountiful feast spread out before him. "I didn't expect all this," he admitted, a note of wonder in his voice as he glanced at Nana.

Nana chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "It's just a simple meal," she replied modestly, though there was a hint of pride in her voice. "But yes, it's a local specialty. My people are mainly farmers and fishermen, so we make do with what we have."

She gestured towards the various dishes with a graceful sweep of her hand. "Since the beach side has been off limits, thanks to Elena," she added with a wry smile, "we've had to rely more on farming for our food. And of course, hunting for our essential proteins, like this meat."

Blake nodded in understanding, a newfound appreciation for the meal and the people who had prepared it settling over him. As he reached for a piece of the roasted meat, he couldn't help but marvel at the resourcefulness and resilience of Nana's community, making the most of their circumstances even in the face of adversity.

Blake's curiosity piqued as he eyed the roasted meat. "What meat is this?" he inquired, glancing at Nana expectantly.

Nana's lips curved into a proud smile as she gestured towards the dish. "Antelope meat," she replied, her voice tinged with satisfaction. "Captured by yours truly, Scar."

Blake's eyebrows lifted in surprise at Nana's revelation. "Antelope meat? Impressive," he remarked, casting a glance towards Scar, who sat regally nearby, as if to acknowledge the wolf dog's role in the hunt.

"Captured by Scar, huh?" Blake said, a hint of admiration in his tone as he looked back at Nana. "You two make quite the team."

Nana smiled, a proud glint in her eyes as she nodded. "Yes, Scar's an excellent hunter," she agreed, reaching out to scratch behind the wolf dog's ears affectionately. "We've been partners for many years now."

As Blake took a bite of the tender meat, he couldn't help but marvel at the bond between Nana and her loyal companion. It was clear that they shared a deep connection, forged through years of mutual trust and companionship in the wild.

Blake's eyes widened in delight at the sight of the feast before him, a grin spreading across his face as he realized just how hungry he was. With a nod of thanks to Nana, he wasted no time in digging into the meal, savoring each mouthful as if it were the most delicious thing he had ever tasted.

As Blake savored the flavor of the antelope meat, Nana's question caught him off guard. "Do you know how to hunt?" she inquired, her gaze fixed on him expectantly.

Blake's laughter was nervous as he shook his head. "Honestly, I'm not sure what I'm even good at yet," he confessed, his tone tinged with uncertainty. "I wasn't lying when I said I know nothing about myself."

Nana furrowed her brow slightly, sensing the weight behind Blake's words. She could tell that the topic was heavy for him, and she decided to change the subject. "Well, let's talk about something else then," she suggested, reaching for a slice of yam from the clay plate.

She paused, contemplating her next question before finally asking, "Would you like to go on a hunt with me one of these days?"

Blake's eyebrows lifted in surprise at Nana's invitation, but a small smile tugged at his lips. "Isn't that going to be too much trouble? You always complained I was too slow," he remarked, teasingly.

Nana chuckled, shaking her head. "I only said that because I couldn't stand you then," she admitted, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "But who knows? Maybe you'll surprise me."

Blake joined in her laughter, recognizing the truth in her words. It was remarkable how far they had come since their initial meeting, and he couldn't help but feel grateful for the unlikely bond that had formed between them.

Although, a part of him felt there was a lot to still uncover.