Page 73 of Monster's Melody

It was the most elaborate, realistic tattoo I’d ever seen.

Probably because it wasn’t a tattoo at all, but a shadow-kitten stretching her skills in new ways.

Miki-Leopard flexed her paws on Mikaela’s arm and ten tiny claws peeked out.

“That’s the most adorable thing I’ve ever seen,” I said.I glanced around quickly, checking to make sure Vorzak and The Hissies weren’t anywhere nearby.“I really want a cat,” I whispered, then put my finger to my lips in a shushing motion.

Mikaela snickered and Kasi just shook her head.

“Just tell Vorzak,” Kasi said.“That man would get you anything you want.”

“I don’t want to hurt The Hissies’ feelings.”

Mikaela giggled.“Theywerepretty adamant that a cat was an unacceptable familiar for you.I wonder how they’d feel about a snake.”

The sound of hissing preceded Vorzak’s arrival.

I grimaced.“Thanks a lot, Mikaela,” I muttered.

She giggled as The Hissies shoved their way in front of my face to begin lecturing me with lots of bouncing up and down, weaving back and forth and agitated hissing.

Hissies.

Kill.

Other.

Snakes.

Dead.

I burst into laughter.“Okay, no other snakes.Besides, no snake could possibly be as wonderful as you darlings.”

Snakes.

Steal.

Our.

Sexy.

Jazzy.

“No snake is going to steal me away.I promise.I am yours.”

It took a lot of talking, not to mention chin scratches andkissies, before they finally settled down.

The entire time this conversation went on, Vorzak just grinned, his shoulders occasionally shaking in amusement as my promises of undying fidelity grew more and more elaborate.

Kasi finally teased, “You should maybe throttle it back, Jasmine, or you’ll be their slave all summer long.”

Everyone laughed and that was how our third year at Blackthorn Academy ended, with adorably cranky snakes, teasing friends and a lot of laughter.

We headed for the docks a few moments later and found them swarming with Blackthorn students ready to start their summer vacations.

“The ferry’s late again,” Jahrdran said with a snort.

“Or it’s just hiding from the students,” Kasi said.