A Little Background in Political Landscapes

Based on the icy feeling on her skin, Eva guessed she was now alone in the bedroom. Her chest ached. It seemed like an overreaction to Lucas' absence, but maybe that was just how much she had fallen in love with him.

In his explanation of his trip, he had neglected to inform her how long he would be gone. The only thing he mentioned on time was that he would be back as soon as possible.

Her slight movement had alerted the leopard at the foot of the bed that she had awoken. Soon a wet nose touched her arm, making her shiver.

"Red, that's cold!"

She heard a snort, and she wondered if he was laughing at her. The bed shifted under his weight as he curled up where Lucas usually slept. Not that she had seen him sleep much.

The warmth of the leopard's fur, from him sitting by the fire, lured her in close. Being with Red somehow made the loneliness inside her diminish. She rubbed her face into his fur and listened to the slight purring.