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Alana swallowed hard and put on the necklace. It was a small thing, with a short chain and a small round gemstone in a wooden fitting. She walked up behind Ethan and felt a little silly at not knowing how to proceed.

"There's no reason to be nervous. Come on, it'll be fun."

Alana took a deep breath, lay down on Ethan's back and wrapped her arms around his neck. Then -- because it seemed like the thing to do -- she hooked her legs around the underside of his tail. She also made sure to keep her face well clear of the horns protruding from the back of his head.

"Ready?" he asked.

Alana nodded, although she didn't really feel ready. She shut her eyes tightly and braced herself for a fall. Her breathing was much shallower than normal, and she wasn't far from hyperventilating.

"Alana, look at me." He twisted his head as far back as he could. She could just look into one of his eyes. Even though they looked like cat's eyes, they were full of warmth and concern.

"I will never let anything ha