She didn't deny it. Instead, she met his eyes, her own steady despite the turmoil within. "Everyone is allowed to be afraid sometimes, Colonel. Even Paladins."
He tilted his head, ears flicking. "Indeed, fear is the shadow to valor's light. But cowardice? That should not be an acceptable trait in men."
"But I am a woman."
Colonel Charcoal hissed softly, a low rumble in his throat, and extended a claw to lightly scratch her forearm. Not deep, but enough to draw a thin line of blood that welled up like crimson ink. "You know precisely what I mean, you obstinate grape! Cease your deflections."
Meredith winced but held still, the scratch a petty reminder of his feline temperament. He retracted his claws and sat back on his haunches, tail curling around his paws.
