“You’re late, Ginger!” Irbis snapped, annoyed—even злly. “I needed to go to the shop!” Frosya muttered. “If you’re in a hurry, why were you waiting?” “Sit in front!” Tikhon ordered, after a pause, grabbing the straps of Frosya’s backpack. “I don’t want to. I’m comfortable in the back,” Frosya objected. “Listen… can you not argue with me at least sometimes?!” Irbis barked, losing his patience. “Get to the front!” ***She is bold, troublesome, unruly. And he’s used to getting everything he wants. And she—he wanted her. But can you tame fire without getting burned?