Gerlinde watched Lisle carefully, handling the kitty's attention like an uprooted seedling being borne to solid soil in her hands.<br/><br/>When Lisle kitty showed bewilderment - even a pang of pain - Gerlinde was quick to respond.<br/><br/>"No, dear kitty - no, don't worry."  Gerlinde said sweetly, almost smiling at Lisle's dismay.  She surmised that Lisle puss was shocked that she had to render such a thing to her under such circumstances.  Perhaps she simply felt filthy.  Perhaps she felt despair that she had to do one more thing.  Gerlinde addressed the latter.  "You were good.  I am already very pleased by you.  But others may demand more in the future.  I must have you prepared."<br/><br/>When Lisle nuzzled around her leg, Gerlinde felt delighted; still truly calm.  She did not want to move.  Not ever.  The notion made her smile, and she stroked Lisle's head, pressing her face to her thigh.  "So dear," she said in a hushed tone.  "So good."<br/><br/>Gerlinde inhaled this long moment as it went on and on like a warm wind.  Her leg absorbed Lisle's bareness.  Her hand stroked it.  Then a tap of the crop on Lisle's rump stirred it to an end.<br/><br/>It was time to reward kitty.  Reward them both.<br/><br/>"Up now, and kitty walk to the bathroom.  Pretty as you please."