Page 73 of The Purrfect Rival

Echo transformed his carefree nature into unexpected dedication, volunteering to coordinate communications between species. His newfound purpose manifested in daily cross-clan message deliveries and enthusiastic suggestions for joint activities.

Most surprising was the friendship blossoming between Lucella and Hezron. What had begun as reluctant cooperation had evolved into inseparable companionship.

“He’s insufferable,” Lucella insisted when Kalyna raised an eyebrow at their third “coincidental” meeting. “Arrogant, presumptuous?—”

“Handsome, charming, excellent company,” Kalyna finished, enjoying her friend’s flustered expression.

“We’re friends,” Lucella emphasized, cheeks flushing. “Very good friends who appreciate each other’s company. Nothing more.”

“Of course,” Kalyna agreed, hiding her smile. “Your blush is purely friendship-related.”

“Says the woman who radiates happiness whenever a certain golden-haired mayor enters the room.”

“Different situation entirely.”

“How so?”

“I admit I’m besotted,” Kalyna said with mock primness. “You’re still in denial.”

A week after the ritual site confrontation, Boz faced the council. Kalyna testified about the heirloom’s dark influence, describing how it had amplified his ambition into destructive obsession. She advocated for rehabilitation rather than punishment—visibly surprising Boz himself.

“Why speak for me?” he asked afterward, arrogance gone from his voice. “After everything I did?”

“Because holding onto hatred hurts the holder more than the hated.” She met his gaze directly. “And because I believe you can change.”

The council’s verdict reflected their evolving approach—five years of restricted magic, community service, and regular sessions with Elder Willow. Rust’s support for this sentence,despite his lion instincts demanding harsher retribution, earned newfound respect among foxes.

That evening, Kalyna curled against Rust on the terrace of his home—their home now, though she hadn’t officially moved all her belongings yet.

“You were magnificent today,” Rust murmured, fingers combing through her copper hair as she leaned against his chest. “Showing mercy where I wanted vengeance.”

“Your support meant everything,” she replied, tilting her face up to his. “I know your lion wanted blood.”

“My lion wants whatever keeps you safe and happy.” He traced her claiming mark with gentle fingers. “Even when it conflicts with instinct.”

Moonlight silvered his golden hair as he bent to kiss her—a slow, thorough exploration that sent heat spiraling through her body. When they separated, his eyes had darkened, gold flecks expanding with desire.

“I love you,” she whispered, the words slipping out without premeditation.

His entire body stilled. For a terrifying moment, she feared she’d miscalculated. Then his arms tightened around her, a tremor running through his powerful frame.

“Say it again,” he demanded, voice rough with emotion.

“I love you, Rust Leonid.” She smiled up at him, heart thundering. “Stubborn, overprotective lion and all.”

“I’ve loved you since you stood in that council chamber looking at me like I was simultaneously the most irritating and fascinating creature you’d ever encountered.” His forehead pressed against hers. “Everything before you feels like practice for this life.”

He captured her mouth again, the kiss deeper, hungrier. His hands slipped beneath her blouse, callused fingers tracing patterns against her skin that made her shiver with anticipation.

“Bedroom,” she gasped when they broke apart. “Now.”

His answering growl vibrated through her as he lifted her effortlessly, carrying her inside as though she weighed nothing.

SEVENTY-ONE

Two weeks later, Hezron transformed the town square into a chaotic patchwork of “Cultural Exchange Day” activity stations.

Lion cubs attempted fox greeting bows—their natural dignity undermined by intricate gestures that sent most toppling sideways. Fox kits struggled with lion meal ceremonies, their chatter erupting at inappropriate moments. Wolf shifters demonstrated tracking while bear clan members taught honey harvesting, each group visibly uncomfortable but making sincere efforts.

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