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\pgndec\pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033\pagebb{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Solstice Eve}
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\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
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\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Eighteen-year-old Sam stood on the back porch of her parent's house, watching the rain. She'd been out there long enough that the mug of tea in her hands had gone cold, and now all she really wanted was to find her sister and cuddle to warm up. She turned around and stepped back into the kitchen, ears pricking forward as she just barely picked up Alex's voice from the other room.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Look, I get you're trying not to take sides in this thing and stay out of it or whatever, but you've }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
gotta}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 see how that's just hurting her more\'97"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Of }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
course}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 she was sticking up for Sam. She was }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
always}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 sticking up for Sam. It warmed her heart\'97and }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
maybe}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 other places\'97how much Alex loved her. That warmth didn't stand much chance against this, though.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Their mom was }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
mad}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
. She'd been mad since the start of the year, when she decided out of nowhere that Sam had to go to medical school. Sam really didn't want to go to medical school. }
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}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I'm sorry, Kitten," their dad's voice says, low and soft.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Don't }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
touch}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 me! Don't just apologize! You could help fix this! Fuck!"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
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Blinded by tears, Sam fumbled through the door and into the ice-cold January rain.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam wakes up to a bed she hasn't slept in for a year and a half, surrounded by the smell of a house she hasn't been in for a year and a half, cold and alone. Her eyes snap open, claws catching in the sheets she clutches in her panic. Her breaths come in gasps as she scans the room, ears tracking every little sound as she tries to place herself. She's on the verge of\'97something, crying, or a panic attack\'97when she finally registers the warmth in the bed under her hand, the scent in the sheet and her fur, the top she's wearing.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex is here. She's safe. Only then does her brain catch up to how she got here, }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
when}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 it is. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
And then she remembers Alex talking to her, barely\'97she grabs her phone from the bedside table and notes the time\'97six minutes ago. Alex woke up first, and checked on her, and promised to make breakfast then come get her out of bed. And then Sam must have dozed off for a few minutes and disoriented herself. She grumbles and flops back down to lie, grumpy and boneless and stewing in her frustration, for another moment. Once she's satisfied her heart's slowed down, she slips from under the sheet and onto her paws.}
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}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
By the foot of the bed, Alex's bag lies open and spilling clothes onto the carpet. With a long-suffering sigh, she steps around the mess to fetch her own things and get changed, opting for comfort over looks\'97pajama pants and one of Alex's old hoodies over a t-shirt. On her way out, she tosses last night's pajama tank top back onto the bed and nudges Alex's things back into her bag.}
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}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex is at the stove, one ear already trained her way, when Sam finds her. Sam approaches, takes a quick look and listen around, then collapses into a hug around Alex's middle.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"You good?" Alex pokes at the sausages in the pan, more an excuse to do something than to actually stir them.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I just\'97I woke up and I was alone, and }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
here}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
. But I'm okay now."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Good. I'm sorry." She gives her twin's arm a couple quick pats. "Uh, Dad's in the garage. Mom's gone\'97something at work? Iunno, ask Dad."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Mkay."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Food'll be a few minutes, if you wanna go talk now. Can use it as an excuse to bail if things go weird."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam slips away, but not before getting one last squeeze in.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Greg Fletcher is doing that thing again where he gets stuck in a loop of idle activities.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The orange cat is pacing around the garage, stopping occasionally to shuffle things around on a shelf, cross his arms over his belly, sigh and shake his head, before going right back to pacing. Sometimes, he adds in a little scratch at the shabby tufty fur behind his cheek. Sam watches him move the exact same bin full of string lights back and forth on the shelf\'97always right back where it started\'97three times before she announces herself with a quiet cough. He starts, tail straight and fluffed out, white patches over his eyes that give him a permanent appearance of surprise really helping to sell it, then notices her. Hand over his heart, he chuckles.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Well good mornin', kiddo." She just talked to him on the phone a couple days ago, but hearing him in person is different, nostalgic in a way she wasn't expecting. There's a timbre in his voice that doesn't quite carry through a phone's tinny connection, a rumble, deep and bassy and soft, like a purr. When he smiles at her, she can see the changes the last year and a half have made in him. He looks older, but a little softer\'97the pinch between his brows that she thought was permanent during high school seems to have worked out. "How was the drive?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Hey dad. It was alright."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Car not giving you trouble?" It was Greg's for nearly twenty years before it became Alex and Sam's during high school, and was around who knows how long before }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
he}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 got it, so it's a bit of a miracle\'97and a lot of hard work\'97that the thing still runs.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Nope. Somehow, it's still going."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Well that's good. That's good." A pause. He pokes at the bin of lights again. "You uh, found your room alright? Got settled in?" He's left it crooked. Sam wonders how long it'll stay that way.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Yeah. I slept like a rock."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
He chuckles. "Y'know your sister said the same thing. Even now it's like deja vu talkin' with you two." He shakes his head. "But I guess that's on me, askin' you both the same questions, huh?" He notices the bin. "Whoops." Nudges it back to where it was. "That's better." He turns back to her. "It's real good to see you again, Sam. Both of you." He nods like he's working himself up. "And I'm real sorry, too. I didn't know how bad it was for you. But," he sighs. It almost sounds like a growl. "If I had known, I probably would've just kept quiet, let it happen anyway. That wasn't good. }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
I}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 wasn't good. And I'm sorry."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I know, dad."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I'm gonna keep tryin' to do better."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Thanks. Quick hug?" She holds her arms out, bashful.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
That pinch between his brows comes back, mixed with something soft and longing, and he nods. He wraps her up and squeezes her tight, lopsided purr rumbling in his chest. "I love ya, kitten."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
She squeezes for one more breath before answering. "Love you too, Dad. You still give great hugs."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Not the best anymore?" He lets her go. She steps back.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"It's hard to compete with my very own twin."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I sure wouldn't wanna be put up against her." He chuckles.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Speaking of Alex, she said something about Mom being gone?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Oh. Yeah. I thought she had the day off, but." He shrugs. "She went in to work anyways. Something about paperwork."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Huh. Weird."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Hey, Sammie," Alex chimes in from the kitchen doorway. "Food's ready."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam turns towards her voice. "Thanks, Alex." She turns back to Greg.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Whelp. Guess you better get goin', no sense missing breakfast."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Okay, dad."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"And hey," he says, stalling her briefly, "it really is good to see you again. Thank you. I'm gonna try and earn it."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
She offers him a smile, then heads to the kitchen and her waiting meal.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam was frozen in the living room, silently watching another fight between her sister and mother }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
explode}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 over the kitchen table.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"You know your sister }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
worships}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 you, Katherine." Alex tensed at the use of her first name, had to fight to keep from flinching, from her ears pinning back. "If }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
you}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 said something to her, you could convince her to see reason\'97"Alex interrupted her, standing so fast from her chair it toppled backwards.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"The fuck do you mean 'see reason'?" Mom tried to admonish her but she just yelled over her. "And shut up! You're delusional! Do you even know what she likes anymore? Seriously, I am asking you. What does Sam }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
like}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
When her mother hesitates, mouth open, Alex pounces on it.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"That's what I fucking thought. You've been so up your own ass about her being your }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
perfect little puppet}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 you don't even know she's her own person. Do you have any idea what that }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
did}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 to us? What it's }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
still}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 doing to us?" There was a }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
threat}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 in Mom's posture, like she was just barely holding back a snarl, but Alex was on a roll, arms wide as she gesticulated. "She's had anxiety attacks like every week for the entire year. She's a nervous }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
wreck}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
. We\'97I }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
stole}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 her acceptance letter for West so you wouldn't know she applied until it was too late for you to do something about it. Hell, }{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
I applied for her,}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 she was so scared of you finding out."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
She levels her best threatening glare at the woman before her. "Leave Sam the fuck alone and let her find just the tiniest bit of joy in her last few days of high school." She whirls around and stalks for the door, tail lashing behind her.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Her mother, stunned so far, finds her voice just in time to call out to Alex's back. "Addressing your mother like this is exactly the sort of bad influence I knew you would be on her."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex doesn't slow down, just flips her middle finger up over her shoulder as she passes through the doorway. If she weren't fighting to avoid crying or mauling the older cat at the table, the affronted noise her mother makes would bring a smile to her muzzle.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The twins eat side by side at their old places at the table. About ten minutes in, Greg pokes his head through the doorway.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Smells real good. Sausages?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Through a mouthful of eggs, Alex answers, "Yehh, leff wun fuh yoo." He gives her a little wave and swipes it from the pan.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam giggles and shoves at her shoulder. "Don't be gross."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Greg wanders in and out of the kitchen, rummaging through the cupboards, occasionally stopping to scratch at the scruffy fur along his jowls and scribble on a sticky note gripped in his paw. Between his trips, they tease at one another\'97a stroke of the tail here, a poke of a finger there\'97containing their giggles as much as they can. Then they clean their dishes, side by side, one washing and one rinsing.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Ladies, do ya think I could send you on a quick errand?" Greg stands in the doorway, scowling down at the crumpled sticky note clinging for life to the fur on his finger. Sam cuts off the water and dries her hands.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"What sort?" As Sam steps away to talk to him more directly, Alex bumps her hip, then takes over the rinsing.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Well, I went through everything, and I dunno if I'll have enough flour to get all my baking done. I could use a couple other things, too, if you don't mind making the trip into town."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Yeah, I think we can handle that." She turns to her twin, already wrapping up the dishes.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"And why don'tcha take my car, and while you're gone I'll give the junker a checkup."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Mkay."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
On their way out the door, Greg flags them down again. "Tossed a blanket on Sam's bed. Sorry about that, forgot we had all the spares packed away."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Aw thanks, Dad."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Hope you're a little warmer tonight. You two have fun in town."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
They pile the groceries in the trunk, then decide it's cold enough out they can leave it all for a while without any danger, and go for a walk. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
While Alex struggles to find a safe spot for the groceries in Greg's car, Sam takes a long, deep breath of snowy winter air. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Do you think the groceries will be okay if we leave them for a while?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex looks up from her work. "I don't see why not."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Wanna go for a walk?" Sam holds out her hand, somehow managing to look bashful about it despite their }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
years}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 together.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex smiles, warm and gentle. "I'd love to." She closes up the car, then takes Sam's hand. "Anywhere you wanna go in particular?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Not really." She swings their joined hands back and forth as they set off. "Anywhere's good if I'm with you."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex leans in to nuzzle her, mark her cheek and shoulder.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Stop number one is the local coffee shop, [with a name I'll think up later]. As they near, Sam drops her arm from around Alex's waist to slip ahead and open the door for her.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Oh, are we doing this again? Or are you just afraid of being the first one inside?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
As Sam follows, she whines, "I dunno what I'll waaaaaant."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The lioness barista looks up from her work, customer service smile already on her muzzle, then her eyes dilate and ears relax when she spots her newest customers, smile growing a little bigger and a little sweeter. "Come on in, sweethearts, I'll be with you in just a second!"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The twins share a quick look, then shuffle to the counter.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Alright, what can I get you?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Small mocha for me." Alex turns to Sam. "Figured out what you want yet, Sammie?" }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam hums, eyes darting around the menu until they land on the entry for the peppermint hot cocoa and her pupils fully dilate. She tugs on her sister's sleeve, pointing and mewling, "Aleeeex," drawing a chuckle from both her sister and the barista. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Guess that answers that. Better make hers a medium." Sam hugs her arm, purring up a storm. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"You got it." The lioness rings them up, then starts on their drinks. "Are you two visiting from out of town? Don't think I've seen you before." }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Oh, uh," Sam looks to Alex, who shrugs. "We've been away for college. We're visiting our parents." }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Ooh, I hope that's going well. Goodness knows family visits can be fraught."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"You can say that again."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The lioness pauses to turn and give Alex a devilish grin, then returns to the drinks. "Ooh, I hope that's going well. Goodness knows family visits can be fraught."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam giggles. Alex rolls her eyes, but can't hide the smile on her muzzle. The lioness's tail sways.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Alright!" She turns with two finished drinks, setting down the smaller of the two first. "One small mocha for }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
," then she fastens the lid to the larger cup, "and one medium peppermint cocoa for }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sammy}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
." Keeping her hold on it, she reaches into the display and retrieves a straw made of peppermint bark, popping it through the top. "Plus a sweet treat for a sweet treat," she adds with a wink.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Ooh! Thanks." Sam takes a sip and }{\*\cs15\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
moans}{\*\cs15\i\ai\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs15\i\ai\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Both Alex and the barista freeze, tails lashing and ears glowing with blush, while Sam starts towards the exit, blissfully unaware.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs15\i\ai\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The barista finds her voice as they near the door, and calls out "You two come back by if you get the chance before you leave again! I'll be here every day!"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\*\cs15\i\ai\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
They wave. The door closes behind them.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Okay the barista was }{\*\cs15\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
definitely}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 flirting with us\'97" }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"She was?" }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"\'97and }{\*\cs15\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
you}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 didn't help that by }{\*\cs15\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
moaning like you came}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
." }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Alex you don't get it, it really is that good." She holds it out. "Here, try a sip." }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I don't have your sweet tooth, no way I can handle that concoction."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The library may be the only place that still seems }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
just}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 how they left it. That might reflect more on the timeless power of the public library than anything else, but it feels significant either way. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
They spent a lot of time here as kittens and teens, especially once they could drive. It was a quiet, calm place away from home where they could just }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
be}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
. There was comfortable seating, plenty of other people for Alex to practice drawing. There was also a reading nook, hidden away in the back of the second floor, behind a section of the driest historical texts, positioned in a west-facing window that got perfect sunlight for late-afternoon reading\'97or napping. It felt like a secret just for them\'97in all their years coming, they had never seen anyone else in that space.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
As they wander the stacks, hand in hand, their paws carry them along the well-tread path to their secret nook. The lighting is different in the morning, especially with the clouds and snow outside, dim and almost blue, but when Alex clicks on the lamp, its soft yellow light bathes the couch in an inviting warmth.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam eases into her old spot in the corner, then pats right next to her. Alex doesn't need to be asked. She flops down, drops her weight to the side to rest heavily against Sam, who giggles.\line \line "I missed this."\line \line "Which part? The library? The couch? The cuddling?"\line \line "All of it, kinda. The view of the courtyard through the window, the smell of the books, sitting on this couch together."\line \line Alex rests her head on Sam's shoulder, nuzzles against it. "Me, too. The uni library just isn't the same."\line \line "There's no secret make-out couch, for one" Sam pushes Alex until she flops over, then pours herself into her arms, nuzzling everywhere she can get to.\line \line They sigh.\line \line Alex chuckles quietly. Sam makes an inquisitive chirp.\line \line "When we would take a break from reading to cuddle and nap, sometimes I would count the books on that shelf, right over there." She points it out. "It's the same books, same number."\line \line Sam turns, cranes her neck to put her eyes and ears every way she can, then ducks her head back down. Slowly, her hand snakes down Alex's torso. "Y'know what }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
I}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 wanna count, that I bet will be the same number still,too?"\line \line As Sam's hand finds the hem of Alex's hoodie, Alex gives a second look and listen around. "This is }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
dangerous}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
," she purrs. She makes no move to stop Sam.\line \line Sam kisses her, short and sweet. "In all our years coming here, not once have we ever seen or heard or smelled of another person coming over here during the day." She splays her fingers in Alex's belly fur, trailing steadily upwards.\line \line Alex leans up to chase her muzzle. Against Sam's lips she mutters, "I do like it when you take charge." Sam's finger pads, cold as ice, find her first nipple and she shivers.\line \line There's a gasp.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam flings herself from atop Alex, onto the couch's opposite arm, nearly missing entirely. Alex curses to herself, surreptitiously tugs her hoodie down as she sits up to behold\'97\line \line A pair of teenage girls\'97a striped hyena and an opossum\'97hand in hand, just emerging from behind the nearest shelf. They look maybe thirteen or fifteen, Alex isn't sure, she's bad at reading ages in }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
cats}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
, let alone other creatures. They're blushing, the hyena's mane standing up, possum's muzzle hanging open and tail gripping their clasped hands. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex clears her throat. "Sorry! About that. We, uh, thought we were alone." \line \line Sam is }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
mortified}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
. And then she notices their hands, eyes and ears }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
zeroing in}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
, and her muzzle drops open. Blushing, she reaches for Alex, swatting her shoulder, before finding her hand. \line \line The possum finds her voice first. "W-we're sorry, too, that we, interrupted, I didn't know anyone else ever\'97" she cuts off before she can finish, mouth snapping shut and hand covering muzzle.\line \line Alex cackles.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
She stands, tugs her twin up to stand beside her, and winks at the little lesbians. "We'll leave you to it, then."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam can only manage a rapid nod, too busy blushing and cringing and wishing she could disappear to do any more.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
On the sidewalk outside, Sam buries her face in her hands and moans. "}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Maybe}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 it's time to go back to the car?" Her ears haven't lifted from being pinned to the sides of her head since the encounter.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Yeah, that was\'97" Alex takes a breath and sighs. "That was a close call."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The rest of the walk they spend in silence. Once inside the relative privacy of their dad's car, Alex leans back in her seat and scrubs at her muzzle.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Holy }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
shit}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
. If it had been }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
literally anyone}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 but a couple of non-cat baby-lesbians too young to know us, we would be dead."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam, with her shoes off and her paws up in the seat, just nods her head against her knees.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"No wonder we were stressed in high school." Alex drops her head forward to bump it against the wheel. "This is exhausting." A bitter laugh and a moment of sulking later, she starts the car.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"They looked sweet though." At Alex's 'mhm' she continues. "The hyena had stars in her eyes. We may be the first adult queers they've met?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Hmmmmmm, maybe." Their conversation lulls briefly while she focuses on the road. "Thank fuck neither was a feline. That would have gone }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
so much worse}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 if they had pegged us for sisters."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Oh goodness you're right. Uuuuuuugh, I don't even want to think about that."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Thought the lioness at the coffee shop maybe had us, too."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"We've gotten bad at this, huh?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Maybe a little out of practice, yeah."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Back home, they spend the afternoon lazing, one or the other occasionally helping Greg in the kitchen.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex passes by Sam on her way out, trailing first her hand, then her tail along Sam's arm and shoulder. A few minutes later, she returns with a glass of water. She pauses behind the couch, leans in to rest her muzzle between Sam's ears.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Why're all your neighbors Big Sister type?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam sputters.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"They're not!" She pulls up the map and points at their little icons. "Goldie and Lolly are normal! Freya's snooty!" Heat blooms in her ears.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Oh? Let's see then, what about Katt? Quinn? Flo?" Sam curls into herself. "Reneigh? Pashmina?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Okay fine," Sam mutters, "There's a lot of Big Sisters in my town! But that's just how it happened!"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Mmmmhm, sure." Alex kisses the base of her ear. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"They're cool." After a quick glance towards the kitchen, she adds in a smaller voice, "And they remind me of you."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Awww, Sammie." Alex rubs her cheek along the top of her head. "That's sweet. Sorry I teased you."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"You should be, you meanie. Go help dad with his cookies, as penance."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex stretches over the couch to set her glass down on the coffee table, then drops one last kiss on Sam's eartip on her way out.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam notices Alex's intense stare, the way she's }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
studying}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 her from the armchair, and perks up.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Oh, it's been a while since I've seen you doing a pencil sketch."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Couldn't bring the whole setup, so just brought the sketchbook."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I like when you do traditional stuff. It's easier to tell how it's going for you." She gestures at her own muzzle as she screws it up in faux-concentration. "You make a lot more faces." When she spots the cover, horror suddenly dawns on her. "Oh, no. That's not }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The Sketchbook}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
, is it?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex doesn't get her implication, and just quirks a brow.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"With the }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
you know what}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
." Her mind flashes through dozens of depictions of herself, nude, laid bare before Alex and captured at her most vulnerable.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Ohhhh. No! Gods, no, that one doesn't leave our bedroom, let alone the apartment." As Sam sags with relief, Alex continues, "That one's just for us. This one just has the same cover." Alex flips back to it, regards it. "I'll do something later to differentiate them at a glance."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam smiles, then goes back to her game. A few minutes later, in a quiet voice, she adds, "I'm glad you quit rugby."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex stops, offers a lopsided smile. "Yeah? Didn't like watching through your fingers?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"It was }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
awful}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
, Alex, every time anyone came anywhere }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
near}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 you I just }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
knew}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 this was it, you were gonna get }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
hurt}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 and never be able to draw again."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Aw, Sammie." Alex considers her progress. Her smile softens. "I'm glad, too."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The finished piece is a pencil portrait of Sam, in profile. She's holding her game, but her attention is obviously not on it. Her nearest ear is cocked towards the viewer, and she's smiling into the middle distance, soft and sweet.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Arright, girls," Greg rumbles as he passes the living room on his way to the door, "I found you a spare blanket and left it on the foot of Sam's bed." He struggles to put on a too-small coat. "I'm headin' out to pick up your mom from work then take her to dinner." He pops his head back through the living room doorway. "Thanks for the idea, Alex." }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
She waves him off, then freezes. "You've got flour all in your fur still."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Aw shoot." Greg scrubs a paw across his face again, sending a little cloud into the air, then receives a thumbs up. "It'll probably be midnight or later before we're back, so you two enjoy your quiet time," he adds with a wink, and then he shuffles off through the front door.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex holds her paw under the faucet until the water's hot, then stoppers the drain. Drying her hand on her t-shirt, she checks her preparations\'97candles lit, tub filling, bubbles growing, towels and robes on the rack\'97then nods her approval. She cuts the water when it's }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
just}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 shy of the fill line, then exits to fetch her twin.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Sam?" Alex opens their bedroom door, where she finds her sister curled up in a blanket cocoon playing her Switch. She approaches, then lays a hand on her. "Hey, Sammie. Is the purrito helping?" She receives a noncommittal noise. "Well, that's okay. Because I may have conspired to keep our parents out of the house for the entire evening, and I want to pamper you. So," she leans down to press her chest against Sam's back and begins purring soothingly, "how about I unwrap you, then you let me give you a good, long soak in the bath?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam grumbles, but pauses and hands over the game, then wriggles around to help Alex disentangle her.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"There's my pretty kitty."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Aleeeeeex."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex kisses her nose out of spite.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
After carefully extracting Sam from the bed, Alex leads her by hand to the bathroom, then stops her when she starts undressing herself. "Let me do it for you," she offers with a wink. Sam blushes, but nods. Alex starts with Sam's tee shirt, gathering the hem then sliding it up her torso, over her head\'97careful of her ears\'97and along her raised arms. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"You know I could do this myself, right?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Of course you could." Alex kneels then grasps the waistband of both her panties and pajama pants, and slides both off together, down her thighs, past her knees, to her paws. She looks up to encourage Sam to step out of them, then before standing, pauses to press a gentle kiss to her hip. "But I know this has been rough for you\'97and not just today." She takes Sam's hands. "It's been on your mind for a while, and now we're here and I know it's going better than expected, but there's still }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
so much}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 that could go wrong and I can }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
feel}{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 that you're still thinking about it all." She places kisses to the pads of Sam's palms and fingers, one at a time.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Thank you, Alex." Sam presses forward to wrap her arms around her twin's shoulders.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Love you, Sammie."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Love you, too." A moment passes. "It feels a little silly for me to be hugging you when I'm totally naked and you're still fully dressed." Chuckling, they pull away.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Alright, let me fix that." Alex makes quick work of stripping down.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Soon, they're immersed in the bath, Alex with her back to the edge, Sam in front of her, between her legs and leaning back against her. For a while, no words are shared\'97none are needed. They just soak together, luxuriating in the heat of the bathwater and one another's bodies, purrs intermingled. Alex draws gentle swirls and meaningless patterns through Sam's belly fur as she pets through it. Sam turns her head to rub her cheeks along the tops of Alex's breasts, marking her.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
[I want more of this scene]}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Clean and dry and warm, they return, naked, to Sam's bed. Sam sprawls out over Alex's lap, and Alex slowly works a brush through her fur, first her back, then her arms and legs, with Sam's contented purr picking up to a loud rumble when Alex helps her turn over.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Hey, pretty kitty."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"}{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Mmmmm}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
, hi, Alex." She lifts her chin to let Alex get to it and her throat. "Can I brush you when you're done with me?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex splays her hand in the soft cloud of Sam's lower belly fur. "Sure. }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Or}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
," she slips her hand a little lower, "I could }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
take care of you}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 first."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Ohhhhohoho, that's tempting, but if we go straight from brushies to pleasing me, I won't be able to move again for a few hours."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Would that be so bad?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Yes!" Sam makes her best attempt at a scowl up at Alex, the effect dampened significantly by her continued purr and her kneading at the bed. "You've been doing so much for me lately. I want to take care of }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
you}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
, too."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex leans down to press their muzzles together in a quick kiss, but then Sam chases her when she straightens back up, arms wrapping around her neck and sending them both tumbling back into a pile of purrs and cuddling. Sam pushes up to straddle Alex's middle.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I love you." She presses in, catches Alex's lips just as she opens them to reply, kisses her deeply, softly. When they break the kiss, she breathes the words out again, "I love you." She tilts her head to the side as she leans back in, past her mouth to nuzzle her, cheek to cheek, "I love you," and up to drag her chin across Alex's brow, "I love you," and down again to butt their foreheads together as Alex's arms tighten around her, "I love you, I love you, I love you." }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
When she lets up her assault and pulls away, Alex slips a hand down Sam's back and over her butt to trace a finger pad along her pussy. Sam drops her front and presses her ass up with a little moan and shake. Voice rumbling with her purr, Alex whispers, "I love you, too, Sam. So much." She brings her hand around for a better angle, then dips a finger into Sam's vagina. "And I know you want a turn taking care of me." She nuzzles against Sam's cheek, earning her a little trill and giggle. "And you'll get your turn. And once we're out of here and home, I'll make sure you get }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
plenty}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 of turns." Her free hand rubs slowly down Sam's back, earning an even deeper arch.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Aleeeex."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"But right now, I can tell you're still tense, and I'm here }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
for you}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
. So you just hang on tight."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam squeals into the pillow when Alex rubs both her clit and that perfect spot right above the base of her tail, humping into Alex's palm and clamping down on her finger.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I wish we brought the strap," Alex huffs into her sister's ear, slipping another finger in to join the first, gently crooking them, "so I could have both my hands on you but still be }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
in}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 you."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam moans and nods, clenches down on her fingers, hips gyrating.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex smirks, rubs her thighs together.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
After, they lie together cuddling. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
They've each gone a round, and they're slowly working up to another, but for now they're just kissing, languid, hands idly caressing what fur they find as they wander, purring in chorus, bodies pressed together. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam snuggles a little further down so she can place a kiss to Alex's sternum. "This feels oddly nostalgic." }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Hmmm?" Alex hums sleepily, still recovering from her recent orgasm.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I dunno, it's just. We never }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
actually}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 did this, growing up. Lying naked together, basking in the afterglow. We were always sneaking, and stealing what little time we thought we could get. And we were always }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
afraid}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
. We }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
couldn't}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 get caught. It would have been }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
the end of the world}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 for us."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Mhm." Her hands gently knead at Sam's butt.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"And now, here we are. They don't have that power over us anymore, and I guess I didn't see that before. Now, if they ever find out, what can they do? Kick us out? We would just go home." She sighs, dreamy, like just saying the word }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
home}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 and meaning that little apartment where it's just her and Alex is enough to get her wistful. Alex leans in to kiss the top of her head. "And, yeah, I definitely don't want them to find out. That would still be bad. They would probably, like, disown us, and that would probably break dad's heart. }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Buuuut}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
," she draws the word out, "in the end I would still have you, we would still have each other. I love you, Kitkat."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"I love you, too, Sammie."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam nuzzles her way back up from Alex's chest, leaving a long scent mark from her breast, along her collarbone, and up her throat to her jaw. "Mmmmmmine."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex's purr rumbles through her chuckle. "Yours." Then she rolls them over so she's on top, straddling Sam's thigh. "Always." She drags her hands down Sam's front again, earning her an adorable, eager shiver. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
It's just as Alex's fingers find their way to Sam's pussy again to begin teasing it that their ears flick towards the outer wall\'97gravel crunches under tires. That can't be right, it's way too early for their parents to be back. But sure enough, the garage opens and closes, an engine cuts, and the car doors open then shut. }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Alex reluctantly pulls away and sits up.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Remember what you }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
just}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 said about basking and not being afraid?" She slips from the bed, rifles through the nearest bag to her\'97Sam's\'97and throws a fistful of what she finds at her twin.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Oh gods what the heck, why are they back so soon, I'm }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
wet}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
 Alex!"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
The front door opens, then closes, and Greg lets out a shuddering, grumbly sigh. "Girls, we're back early!"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
A moment passes as the twins settle into their places across the room from one another, then there's a tap-tap against the bedroom door, then their mother's voice through the wood, "Sorry we came back early and interrupted whatever party you were throwing with your boyfriends." The door opens, just enough for her to poke her head through and find both of them, Sam in bed with the bedding up to her waist and game in hand, Alex at the desk pretending to read. "Hi girls." }
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Sam smiles, despite herself. "Hi, Mom."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"No parties," Alex adds with a shrug, flipping her page.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Our solstice meal will be breakfast tomorrow, so we came back early to get to bed." She ducks back out, the door nearly closing and Sam sagging down with relief, before Helen pokes her head back through and startles Sam a second time. "Is\'97is that okay?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Yeah, Mom, that's okay."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
Helen sighs, ears relaxing. She freezes on her breath in, sniffs at the air, then her eyes go wide and her ears pin as she blushes, averting her eyes from Sam. "O-okay. Um, goodnight. Sorry." She ducks back out and }{\i\ai\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
flees}{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
.\line \line The twins stare. Sam drops her head into her hands.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"My mom just smelled how aroused I was and got weird about iiiiiiit."}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
With a chuckle, Alex closes the book and then crosses the room and climbs into bed beside her. "She didn't fuss, she didn't yell, hell she was only kinda awkward about it. I'll take it." She pulls Sam tight to her side, purr picking up in her throat.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"If we're doing breakfast, I guess we should probably get to sleep soon, too, huh?"}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
"Yep." Alex sighs. She reaches for a phone\'97Sam's\'97and sets an alarm for a very early wake up.}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
}
\par \pard\plain \s0\nowidctlpar{\*\hyphen2\hyphlead2\hyphtrail2\hyphmax0}\aspalpha\ltrpar\cf0\kerning1\hich\af6\langfe2052\dbch\af4\afs24\lang1081\loch\f0\fs24\lang1033{\i0\ai0\rtlch \ltrch\loch\lang1033
-----}
\par }