A gust of wind blew through, followed by a heavy paw stroking Clara's head. "Cla!" The hoarse voice belonged to Mateo, who had transformed into a lion.
Mateo stuck out his tongue, licking Clara's face. Tears fell from his eyes. "Cla! You can't die."
Clara, still in pain, curled her body. She then felt herself being embraced, and a warm sensation flowed through her. The pain seemed to lessen.
"Mateo! It really hurts!" Clara sniffled, softly sobbing. At least now, she managed to catch her breath.
"Mateo, what should we do about John?"
