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“Oh, my stars! It’s a pantha,” Wren whispered close to Striker’s ear as she stood behind him. “I can’t believe they captured one. They’re so rare.”

“Rare and deadly. Don’t make any sudden movements,” Striker said, his voice a low rumble.

“I won’t run. These creatures are fast. It’s incredible, though. Look at the iridescent sheen on its fur. More like feathers.”

“I’m much more interested in the huge fangs dripping saliva. We should kill it.”

She tightened her grip on his arm. “No! We have to save it.”

The creature growled and raised its nose, taking a good long sniff.

“You want to save something that has plans to make us its dinner?”

“The last known sighting of a pantha was three years ago. We have to take it alive.”

Striker eased his gun from its holster. “I know your mission is to preserve rare creatures but not if one wants to eat you.”

“It doesn’t. It’s confused and probably as scared as we are.”

“You’re telling me this creature is happy to munch on plants?”

“No, this one enjoys meat and hunting its prey.”

“It’s not having my flesh to munch on.” Striker tried to lift his gun, but Wren placed a hand over his.

“Please, this means a lot to me. Let me try something. I’ve got a way to calm this animal. At least, I think I have.”

“Shoot it between the eyes, you mean?”

“That’s not the tiniest bit funny.” She tried to step out from behind Striker, but he held out an arm.

“No way are you first in line as a snack.”

“Striker, there’s protecting me, then there’s being a possessive asshat and stopping me from doing my work.”

“Of course I’m protective of you. That thing wants to eat you alive.”

She slid alongside him. “Just keep an eye on it. Panthas have a specific pattern they go through before they attack. They thrash their tail, their ears lower, and their pupils dilate. Oh, and their claws extend.”

“How long does it take to do that?”

“A second.”

He grunted. “It’s a good job I’ve got excellent reflexes.”

“Of course you do. You’re one of the best.”

“I’m the best. Fortunately for you.”

“Just shush and focus on the pantha.”

“What are you going to do?”

“I’m going to sing.”

He glanced at her. “And that works?”

“So I’ve been told. All the reports I’ve read agree with the theory.”