Jacob didn't blame Prest.
Prest felt fiercely protective of Amia and was still in a dangerously combative state. Once the demon within was aroused, it was difficult to overcome the savage, predatory instincts of their kind.
Zande's answer was so perfect, it was all Jacob could do not to clasp her to him. She didn't so much as glance at Jacob or in any way act as though they had communicated.
"Amia." She whispered the woman's name softly, lovingly, so that the leopard shimmered between human form and animal. "Do not leave me as yet. I am in sore need of your comfort."
Zande projected just the right note of weariness into her voice, and even Jacob was a believer.
How could she not be tired after her tremendous ordeal? Of course she was. He could feel it in her now as her body swayed slightly against his. Her large eyes touched Prest's stone-hard features.
