"Kristine Kathryn Rusch - Chimera" - читать интересную книгу автора (Rusch Kristine Kathryn)

the only enhanced part of her was her reproductive system. They removed that
before giving her to me. She's going to be pretty normal."

For what? A human? Or did dogs mourn like that too? Gen had read about dogs
that stayed by dead masters, guarding the bodies.

"I don't mean to be rude," Gen said. "But I can't."

She stood and her knees cracked. How long had it been since she had any
exercise? Too long. Maybe a dog would be good, to run at her side, to cross
streets in front of malfunctioning cars—

She shook her head and started away. Cedric stood on his chair, his paws
dangling over the back. He was still staring at her.

Dr. Prichard had spent the last week stressing the importance of this animal
adoption. It'll bring you back to the world, she'd said. You need something to
care about besides the past.

Gen had heard the wisdom in those words, and that had pushed her this far. She
glanced at Sadie, who hadn't moved. The dog was obviously depressed.

"Did Dr. Prichard see Sadie before choosing her?" Gen asked.

"No." Anna patted the dog's head once more, then stood. "She asked for
histories of the patients and thought that Sadie might suit you best."

"Actually," Gen said, surprising herself, "I prefer Cedric."

The cat's head whipped toward Anna so fast that he nearly lost his balance.

"I don't think that's wise," Anna said.

"Dr. Prichard said I needed a companion and she sent me to you. She didn't
judge the companions herself, but just made an educated guess. I don't think
you can intellectualize attraction." She glanced at Cedric. He tilted that
magnificent head toward her. It seemed as if he were surprised.

"Cedric is …" Anna started, then let her voice trail off. "Come with me."

She headed toward the back door. Cedric ran ahead of them, winding himself in
Anna's feet so that she tripped. She caught the doorjamb and bit back a curse.
Cedric licked his side as if he had been the one who had been injured.

"Stay here," she said to him. Then she waited at the door for Gen. As they
went out, Anna turned to make certain Cedric didn't follow.

The door led into a breezeway that had plants growing on either side. The
breezeway was too warm, and it was a moment before Gen realized it was also a
greenhouse. The plants looked healthy, bright green and loaded with flowers.