I have found it is surprisingly difficult to remain sad when a cat is doing its level best to sandpaper one's cheeks.

I will sit here but an hour or two, then leave." I yawn. "So very long as that?" When he answers, there is a wry note in his voice. "I do have my reputation to protect.

You love me?' 'Yes, you great lummox. I love you.' He lets out a sigh. 'Sweet Camulos! It's about time.

And so it is with us; we serve as handmaidens to Death. When we are guided by His will, killing is a sacrament.

I am beginning to think that love itself is never wrong. It is what love can drive people to do that is the problem.

I comfort myself with the knowledge that if Duval ever feels smothered by me, it will be because I am holding a pillow over his face.

A kiss for luck, demoiselle?" It is a magnificent, lusty kiss and I feel nothing but deep regret that it may be his last. Just before he pulls away, he whispers in my ear. "Duval said to give you that should I get a chance. It is from him.