Page 7 of Sly Like a Fox
“Every day brings a new puzzle.I like the challenge of finding elegant solutions to complex problems.”True enough, though my most complex problems lately involve digital forensics and evidence compilation.“What about you?Red mentioned you’re between careers right now.”
Something flickers across her expression—embarrassment, maybe, or frustration.“I’m exploring my options.I’ve done some administrative work, but I’m looking for something that better utilizes my skill set.”
“What skills are those?”
“Reading people.Strategic planning.Finding creative solutions to difficult situations.”She pauses, seeming to choose her words wisely.“Fox shifters have certain natural advantages that most people either fear or want to exploit.I’m looking for a situation where those advantages are appreciated.”
Her honesty surprises me.Most people try to downplay their species’ stereotypes on first dates.“That sounds frustrating.”
“It is.People hearfox shifterand immediately assume I’m either trying to trick them or I’m some kind of exotic novelty.”Her voice carries genuine annoyance.“I’m just someone who happens to be good at reading situations and adapting accordingly.”
I nod in appreciation.“Adaptability is an asset, not a liability.”
“Try telling that to my last few dates.”
The server returns with our drinks and takes our dinner orders.Jenna chooses the salmon with a side salad—again, mid-range price point.Either she’s genuinely budget-conscious or she’s being considerate about not taking advantage of someone else’s generosity.Both possibilities intrigue me.
“So what went wrong with those dates?”I ask once we’re alone again.
“The usual.They either wanted me to tone down my natural instincts or they expected me to be some kind of master manipulator.”She takes a sip of wine.“One guy actually asked me to teach him how to lie more convincingly for his sales job.”
I nearly choke on my whiskey.“Seriously?”
“Completely serious.Apparently, my species’ reputation preceded me.”She shakes her head.“What about you?Any dating horror stories?”
More than I can count, though most involve maintaining my cover identity rather than genuine romantic incompatibility.“I’ve had a few experiences with people who were more interested in my bank account than my personality.”
Her eye twitches slightly.“The hazards of being successful?”
“Something like that.”I study her face, looking for signs of the same gold-digging tendencies.Her expression seems genuinely sympathetic rather than calculating, aside from the eye twitch.“It gets old, being valued for what you have instead of who you are.”
She seems thoughtful for a moment, as though she’s genuinely contemplating my words.She sounds almost surprised when she responds.“I imagine it does.”
Our conversation flows naturally through dinner.She’s quick-witted and well-read, with opinions on everything from local politics to classic films.There’s something refreshing about talking to someone who doesn’t seem intimidated by intelligence or success.
She also asks excellent questions that reveal she’s paying attention to details and building a comprehensive picture of who she thinks I am.Fox shifter instincts at work, probably, but it’s still more engaging than the usual first-date small talk.
“Can I ask you something?”she says as we finish our main courses.
“Of course.”
“What are you really looking for?In a relationship, I mean.Beyond the obvious compatibility stuff.”
The question catches me by surprise.Most people don’t ask for that level of honesty on a first date.“Someone who understands life is complicated.People aren’t always what they seem on the surface.”
She arches a brow.“That’s very diplomatic.”
“Is that a problem?”
“Not a problem.Just interesting.”She tilts her head, studying me.“Most people want simple.Easy.You’re specifically looking for complicated.”
I give her a half-smile.“Complicated can be more honest than simple.”
She laughs softly.“That’s a very fox shifter philosophy.”
“Maybe I’m more adaptable than most bobcats.”
She laughs once more, and the sound is genuinely delighted rather than politely amused.“I like that answer.”
