A to Z: Short Beginnings K

2016 THEME: Short Stories - at least the beginnings thereof.

YOUR PART: Throw out names, themes, random words or situations using the letter of the day and I'll pick some of them to include in the opening paragraphs of a short story.
WHY: I'm most inspired when there's a challenge involved. Usually that means an opening line or a theme. This month: your words.

My creative blender awaits your K word suggestions in the comments section. Stop by tomorrow's post to read the story you inspired.

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J story:

Jenna circled the jaguar with her six knives in hand. Giant golden eyes watched her with the same interest. Interest that might indicate the cat was ready to leap for her jugular at any moment.

"I don't think this is a good idea," she said for the third time since she'd met the cat ten minutes ago.

"Quit being such a baby," said Harold. "Just stay steady and don't make any sudden moves."

She knew the handler would know if one of the circus cats was truly posed a threat to her, but she couldn't help but sweat as she did the lap around the ring again. The cat kept pace with her, his steps much more fluid and graceful than hers. His teeth were much longer too.

"Isn't, you know, the whole juggling thing full of sudden moves?" she asked.

"Relax, I've seen you perform a hundred times. Your routine is very rhythmic. The only sudden move is the first one."

Jenna shifted the knives in her hand. She took a deep breath, kept an eye on the cat and tossed the first knife into the air.