Leopard Queen

Title: Leopard Queen
Author: mlady_rebecca ( mlady_rebecca @ livejournal . com )
Fandom: Anita Blake
Type: Drabble
Word Count: 185 *shrug*
Disclaimer: I don't own any of LKH's wonderful characters. Just borrowing them for a few moments. For entertainment purposes only.
Rating: PG
Pairing: none
Spoilers: none
Author's Note: Written for the Saturday Drabble Challenge at thepard. Requirements: 100 words, at least one pard member, "It's your birthday" theme.
Archive: http://home.comcast.net/~mlady_rebecca/ab_fics.html

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Anita looked down at the package lying in her lap, then looked up at a nervous Zane and an excited Cherry.

"What's this? It isn't my birthday or anything."

"We know. Just open it," Cherry prompted.

Anita removed the ribbon and paper with the care of a police officer handling a bomb. Micah leaned close and whispered in her ear. "It's a present. I don't think it will bite."

Anita rolled her eyes and lifted the lid.

Beneath the crisp white tissue was a framed portrait, a beautiful pencil drawing of Anita, in caricature, surrounded by the pard in animal form. It was titled "Our Leopard Queen" and signed by Zane.

"Thank you, Zane. It's beautiful."

Zane blushed and Cherry beamed. They settled on the floor at her feet.

Anita leaned back and looked around the room. She was pressed between Micah and Nathaniel with the rest of the pard spread out at her feet. Just like in the picture.

For the moment, everyone was safe and happy. She cuddled closer to Micah, laying her head on his shoulder.

Sometimes it's good to be Queen.