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His breathing eased, slowing and deepening. A deep purr rumbled out
of him. Eva straightened from the kiss. Fur still covered his legs.
“I’m— I’m so sorry.”
“It helped. I feel more…settled.”
“But—” She gestured at his legs, which were still those of a cat, to
explain her failure. She barely knew him. “I think the kiss has to be from
your true love.”
“I am willing to wait.” He leaned closer and whispered in her ear. “Why
did you choose the cat?”
“Because you were brave and curious and…. I don’t know.” She
swallowed hard. “What should I have chosen?”
“The field mouse, though I am flattered that you thought I was brave.”
He lifted her palm and kissed it. “I suspect I will be more…determined
than I was before.”
“Determined in what?” They were colleagues. Nothing more.
The pace of his words had slowed and the rolled Rs of his accent fairly
purred. “The pursuit of my interests.” His kiss moved to the inside of
her wrist.
She could barely catch her breath. With a struggle, she pulled her wrist
free and responded as an academician. “I note that you are less
inhibited now.”
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