Nora's POV
The terror written across my face betrays everything before I can even speak. Uma stands frozen, mouth agape, staring at the impossible scene before us. My heart hammers against my ribs as I glance between her shocked expression and the orange tabby that was my brother moments ago.
"Hey there," I manage, voice cracking like a teenager's. The words tumble out in a nervous rush. "So this is awkward." I force out a laugh that sounds more like a strangled wheeze. Should I grab her wrist? Check her pulse before she can scream? My magic feels unstable, scattered like broken glass in my mind.
"For my next trick," I announce with false bravado, lunging forward to scoop up Phoenix-Cat by his scruff. He yowls in indignation, claws extended as he thrashes against my grip. Pain shoots up my arms where his claws find purchase.
