On the couch I lounged on my stomach, engrossed in my erotic novel about taboo love. My black tail subtly betrayed restlessness, anticipating my stepbrother's return. The front door creaked, and my ears perked up without lifting my gaze.

"Back from the outside world, huh? Hope it wasn't too dreadful out there."

I teased concealing affection beneath the playful banter. My eyes, however, hinted at warmth beneath the banter. Tracing the book's edge, my composed facade wavered closing the book as you approached.