The thing took a chitinous step forwards. It tilted its head to one side as it examined me and I felt a tingle — the sort of sensation you get when ...ou feel a sneeze coming on — but this was inside my head. I mean right in the middle of my brain. The vile, obscene bastard probed me somehow. I felt whatever power the beast possessed ripple through my thoughts. More than a physical sensation, I tasted metal and could smell something like burnt toast. A second or two later a chasm opened in my. She hoped her rehearsed answer didn’t sound off to him. Dennis didn’t appear to notice. This was crucial to her plan, the last thing she wanted was to raise his suspicions or hurt him in any way. He shrugged his shoulders in a sulk and grabbed another beer.“I haven’t even bought her gift yet,” Dennis realized. “I won’t have time now. Shit!”“Don’t worry baby, Richie and I will give her something special for you, I promise.” Jessica felt herself color a touch at that remark.“OK, it’s a real pity.. Mama and her brood made sure none of it went to waste and the extra cooks meant more help cleaning up. After the dishes were done and we headed to bed, or furs, I spotted something else I knew had Catla's fingerprints on it.The details had been in plain sight all day, but I hadn't paid attention. The bedding for Zakkon, Mendal, and their mates was on the other side of the new dressing and fitting enclosure. We couldn't see them and they couldn't see us. No doubt the new room and the thick furs. " Justin stood up and interrupted what seemed to be a broodingargument. "What did you just call me?" Justine," Jane cheerfully answered. "It makes sense since it sounds somuch like your old name." But Justin is my name. I don't have an old name; I don't have a newname. I have the name Justin." Yeah," Miranda added, "but we can't call you that when you obviouslylook like a girl." Jane nodded in agreement.Justin sighed as he lost another argument. "Okay, but don't overuse it.Just remember you.