Kate had the feeling she missed Jasper's warmth as she lay in bed. She removed her garments but her shift. She  had to let go of Jasper. They were safe in the house and she drifted into slumber. It was early afternoon when Ann entered her room carrying a tray of tea and scones. "It is me, Katie. I let you sleep and you will be up all night."<br/><br/>Kate groaned, "Thank you Ann. It is so good to be in my own bed. How are the others?"<br/><br/>Ann poured tea into a teacup and handed it to Kate, "Quiet as mice. How did Malora look?"<br/><br/>Kate sat up and propped her pillow against the headboard, "She looked well. A bit older but still beautiful. I feel for Jasper. He wanted to jump at her and his fur stood on end. His emotions were heightened. I felt pain, anger,  despair, and a powerful need to protect emitting from his feral form. Ann, Jasper needs closure. I do not want to let him go. I know I must. When the time comes I will give Jasper the choice to accompany soldiers should an attack on the dark lord be made. I want Jasper ready to take his revenge."<br/><br/>After Kate had her tea and scones she dressed and padded across the hall to Jasper's room. She saw him shirtless and sitting with his back to the wall. She removed a blanket from his bed and draped it over him. She wrapped her arm around his shoulder. The mage whispered, "Easy Love, is Kate. Old habits. Tonight, I will sleep next to you. You need a long rest. Ann brought you tea and scones."