Dinner
The dining table was already prepared, laden with a variety of dishes that smelled so incredible Jarek’s stomach growled audibly. Spotty laughed lightly, gesturing for them to take their seats. "Go ahead and start. Don’t be shy!"
Jarek
As they began eating, Jarek couldn’t help but stare in amazement at Spotty’s plate. Her portions were… monumental. Where his father and he had small servings, Spotty’s plate was piled high with food that would have fed their entire street back in Dalreth.
He watched as she ate with elegance and speed, effortlessly devouring the meal. His curiosity got the better of him, and he blurted out, "How do you eat so much? Where does it all go?"
Spotty
Spotty paused mid-bite, her crystalline eyes sparkling with amusement. She set down her fork and leaned forward slightly, her tone conspiratorial. "That," she said with a wink, "is a state secret."
Jarek giggled, and even Taron chuckled, though his eyes were wide at the sheer quantity Spotty consumed.
"But really," she continued with a grin, "it’s because of my powers. I burn energy differently than most people. Think of it like fuel for a very, very big engine."
Taron
Taron shook his head in disbelief, though a smile tugged at his lips. "Well, whatever the reason, it’s impressive," he said. Then, with a touch of humor, he added, "We’d need ten farms to keep up with you."
Spotty laughed, the sound warm and infectious. "Lucky for me, the palace chefs have that covered!"
Kismet
Kismet lounged lazily on the edge of the table, watching the conversation unfold with a flick of his tail. Humans are so easily entertained, he thought, though he couldn’t help but feel a small swell of affection for Jarek and his father.
"You know," he said telepathically to Spotty, it’s probably good you told them about the engine thing. Imagine the rumors otherwise.
Spotty glanced down at him, her lips quirking in a small smile. Oh, I wouldn’t mind. Rumors make life interesting.
Snowy
Snowy sat curled up on Jarek’s lap, her tiny body warm and content. The soft purring of the other cats filled the room, and she felt safe for the first time in as long as she could remember.
Good. Safe. Home, her simple thoughts echoed as she nuzzled into Jarek’s hands.