Chill of the dark

He looked at her frightened, trembling form. Was there any desire in the shake of her limbs, or was it all stress? He leaned forward and kissed her nose, before releasing his claw from her throat. “We never know what the future will bring.” He said in response, taking a step back from her. His desire was still there, but making a decision had called some of the heat. He wouldn’t couldn’t betray Hazel. Perhaps she would understand dalliances with a pet, but he couldn’t take that chance. His Queen deserved better.

“Go on, Ignita” He said gently. “No harm will come to you tonight.” Where she went he left up to her. To the spare room, back to her drafty den. To the corner of this room. Whatever she chose, he would leave her be. The new knowledge of his feelings between them.