Page 85 of When Roses Burn

“What? How is this possible?” I demanded.

“Can you really hear me?”

“Yes.”

His nose twitched as he sniffed at the air. “If it’s true, then my name’s Gizzi.”

“Gizzi,” I whispered.

He squealed, dropped to all fours, and spun in excited circles before stopping and rising onto his hind legs again.

“Yes! That’s me! I’m Gizzi!”

I had no idea what was happening, but I had the impulse to mimic Gizzi by spinning in circles too. This was strange and scary, but it was also amazing!

I’m talking to an animal!

I’d sometimes imagine being able to do so as a child, because it was something I’d always yearned to do, and it would be so amazing, but I’d never imagined it could become a reality! Can I talk to other animals, too, or just him?

Gizzi launched himself off the bed and onto my shoulder. I smiled when he settled against my cheek and nuzzled it.

“Have you ever talked to anyone else?” I asked.

“No. I’ve never met another who could talk to me like you.”

“This is amazing! Could you understand me before this, like when I was explaining the toilet?”

“Yes, I am very smart.”

“I can tell. How old are you?”

“A few months… I think. Maybe older, maybe younger.”

“You’re young enough that you might not have met someone else… if there is anyone else. Where are your parents?”

“In the forest.”

“Why did you come to the castle with me?”

“It’s scary out there, and I like you.”

I smiled as I turned my cheek into his soft fur, nuzzling it. “It is scary out there.” Especially for someone so small and defenseless. “I like you too.”

“Someone’s coming.”

CHAPTER FIFTY-FOUR

Briar

I froze as Gizzi leapt off my shoulder and scampered under a pillow. The door opened as I turned to it; I’d just registered that the lock didn’t click before Knox entered.

Memories of my Needing flooded me as his large frame filled the doorway. His flame-colored eyes found me instantly.

“You’re awake,” he stated.

“You’re observant.”

His mouth compressed into a flat line. “When did you wake?”