Another gentleman joined them, stating his purpose rather more … forcefully than Nimiane had. But the man with the kittens captured her attention again. She gave him an understanding smile as she watched the kittens climbing him. He opened the gate for them and she was careful to maneuver her skirts around it as she entered the enclosure.

One of the kittens came over to sniff them and the other gentleman reached down to pet it. Nimiane’s eyes, however, were drawn to the smallest one that was curled by the man’s leg. “Do you mind?” She asked gesturing to the small creature in such close proximity to the man. She didn’t want to offend him by getting too close to him, but the creature seemed so quiet and calm, just like her.