Page 77 of Theirs to Possess: The Marriage Claim
“Smart kitty,” I murmur as I crouch to scratch her chin.
Purring, she leans into me. “You’re coming with me, princess,” I promise, more to myself than her. She’s my piece of normal, and there’s no way I’d leave her behind.
“Take your time,” Dorian says, sarcasm dripping from his tone.
With a sigh, I grab my secondhand suitcase from under my bed.
“We’ll be shopping for luggage as well.”
Glaring, I toss the battered relic on the comforter. “This is completely serviceable.”
This time, he doesn’t argue. Doesn’t need to. After all, we both know it will be an eyesore compared to his bags.
Dorian dumps my bra and undies inside before tossing in a pair of jeans. “Dresses?”
“Honestly I can handle this.”
He raises an eyebrow.
Feeling overwhelmed and slightly defeated, I say, “Closet.”
He flips through the hangers and selects nothing.
My cheeks burn from humiliation.
“What else do you need?”
“Cat food,” I respond quickly. Maybe that will get him out of my bedroom and allow me some breathing space.
“Already grabbed some cans,” Brennan says, joining us. “Along with a package of treats and the toys that were scattered around.”
His thoughtfulness melts my heart. “There’s also a container of kibble in the pantry. I like to keep that out at night for her.”
“No problem. I’ll get it.”
“Where’s her carrier?” Dorian asks.
I point to the lavender-colored pile of fabric in the closet near where Dorian is standing. “That’s it.”
“This?” He scoops it up and considers it. “Looks like a pillowcase or a backpack.”
“It’s kind of a mix between the two.” Because she got sostressed at being confined in a metal crate, my vet recommended I try this type, so I splurged on it. “It keeps her head free and allows some movement.”
“Does it work?” Brennan asks.
“No matter what, she’s not a fan of being confined.” I shrug. Maybe me and Calypso have that in common. “But she likes it better than a more traditional one, and I’m able to carry her close to me, which soothes her.”
“Kind of a sling? Over the shoulder?” Brennan asks.
“Yes.” But I’ve only had her in it for short trips around town, not an entire flight. How she’ll do is anyone’s guess.
“Clever idea. Always room for innovation.”
Jolting me, Dorian heads toward my bathroom. “Wait! Where are you going?”
“To pack your toiletries.”
Jesus.Is there no end to his bossiness? “I’ll handle it.” My voice is high and sharp.
