Page 5 of Bria and the Tiger

Ronin laughed. “Reflexes like a cat.”

Kat took Bria’s phone before he could hand it to her. “Bria, you’re coming home to our place tonight.”

“No,” Bria said. “It’s a weeknight and I don’t need a babysitter. I’ll just go home and -”

“Ronin, help her to my car, would you, honey?”

“Sure.” Ronin slung his arm around Bria’s waist. “C’mon, Stripes, let’s get your drunk ass back to our house.”

“I’m not drunk, I’m just tipsy,” Bria said.

“Good night, Porter.” Kat leaned over the bar and pecked Porter on the cheek. “Thanks for calling me.”

“Night, Kat,” Porter replied. “Bria, take care of yourself.”

Bria waved her hand in Porter’s direction as Ronin led her toward the door.

* * *

“What’s wrong with me, Kit Kat?” Bria asked.

Kat helped her climb into the bed and pulled the quilt to her chin. She sat on the side of the bed before brushing Bria’s hair out of her face. “Nothing, sweetie. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with you.”

“There might be.” Bria yawned.

Kat kissed her forehead. “There isn’t.”

Bria yawned again. “Thanks for letting me stay with you tonight. I love you, Kat.”

“I love you too. Get some rest and I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Yeah. Hey, Kat?”

“Yes?”

“Ronin’s a good guy. I’m glad you have him.”

“Thanks, sweetie.”

“Does he happen to have a brother? Because my cycle is next week and I’m not sure I can do another one alone.”

Kat kissed her forehead again. “Ronin’s an only child. Sorry, sweetie.”

“Dammit.”

Kat laughed and stood. “Good night.”

“Night, Kit Kat.”

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