The sound of knocking woke Altina up a moment before someone entered her bedroom. She growled as she snuggled in closer to Kieran’s warm fur, and his deeper growl sounded a moment later as his arms curled around her tighter.
“You’re both covered in ash. Did everything work properly last night?”
Altina fully woke up and pulled the covers more over her as Dr. Sorcha asked Kieran questions. He yawned between questions, and the doctor handed him one of the spicy snacks Altina had gotten him the night before.
“Mrs. Eahban, was your fur always gold?” Dr. Sorcha suddenly asked Altina.
“What…” Altina started to speak but froze when she caught sight of the fur on her arm. Its golden color shimmered lightly in the early morning light. Kieran’s palm was warm as he cupped her cheek and turned her
