pissy for the last three days.” Theophyline hissed over her shoulder as she started moving toward the river. She stopped after a few yards to turn her head with an impatient look. “I’m coming, Madame.” Rissa hummed as she walked out into the sunshine with an easy spirit filled with happiness. She ignored the complaints her body was throwing at her brain. She wasn’t used to the physical aspects of making love. Her inner thighs felt like she’d ridden a horse for days. A small satisfied smile lit up her face as she followed her pet to the edge of the river. The water sparkled in the sun like a million tiny diamonds, just what her sore body needed to feel better. “Can this wait until I wash?” She asked politely. Theo tossed her head, plunked her rear on a patch of grass and began taking her own bath. Rissa walked out into the cold water, sighing as it covered her body with a sharp bite. Her dip would be quick this morning. She had a guest and Theo was an impatient animal with something on her sharp mind. She waited until she was dried and dressed before she faced her friend. “All right. Spill it, Theo.” She waited as the cat arched her back and stretched to prolong the moment. Then blue eyes met green in a union of understanding. You told me we were just coming up here for a break so you could prepare yourself for the hand-fasting ceremony. You lied to me, Rissa! “I did not lie to you, Theo. I needed to get away from all of those preparations. What flowers would I like? What kind of cakes would I chose to serve? What dress was I looking for? Theophyline, they asked my opinion on every single detail of this hand-fasting save one. The most important question. Did I really want to be bonded with Gerimaia Garlock?” Why wouldn’t you? He is powerful, handsome, and rich. You could do worse, child. A fluffy white tail whipped back and forth in agitation. Her English brogue always came through thicker when she was agitated. “I could find love, Theo.” Rissa sighed as she knelt down beside the cat. Love. Theo wiped a paw through the air and rolled her blue eyes. Love is for humans, Rissa. You are of purer blood. Your line will be made even more powerful by joining with Garlock. His family goes far back, his lineage strong and powerful. Your children will be too. “Is that all I am? A broodmare for future generations of Witches?” Rissa shook her head as she stood up. “I won’t be just an instrument for my father’s ambitions. I have every right to look for love, Theo.” This is about that man lying in your bed! Blush all you want, child. I know what he did to you last night. This is about sex. Well, I’m here to tell you sex is fleeting. See how much he wants you after he catches you working a midnight spell in your birthday suit. “He might surprise you, Theo.” She looked back toward the cabin with a feeling of impending change. A question was about to be raised and answered. She just hoped it worked in her favor. “He’s awake. I have to go back, now. I request that you stay here and guard us. Someone approaches below.” *** Travis stood up from the cabin’s top step as he watched her approach him in a light green sundress that left her trim calves and bare feet visible. Her hair was a curly damp mass framing a shining face. Her eyes held secrets as she smiled at him with those luscious berry lips. He licked his own lips as his mouth watered just watching her curvy hips swaying as she moved. “Good morning, Travis Holt.” She didn’t stop until she was right against him. His hands landed on her small waist as she wrapped her arms around his tense shoulders. Her teasing fingers tangled in his hair as she stood on tip-toe to brush her lips against his mouth. He was released from momentary paralysis the instant her wet tongue brushed his lower lip. His hands traveled slowly up her back to the edge of her dress. He sighed as he deepened the kiss to explore the delightful taste of