the pointy end

Shae wanted to pout but she had been warned about being a sore loser. There would be wins and losses and she had to take them both with grace. Winning felt good and provided accomplishment. Failure didn’t feel good, but it gave humility and experience. The young girl could only commit to doing better next time, because this wouldn’t be the last she put cold paws on her sister. Satire showed her own grace in the way she took victory, walking over and offering an encouraging nuzzle. Shae knew she wasn’t getting out of her chores, but at least her sister didn’t rub it in.

The little loser stuck out a pink tongue as Satire reminded her of the chores she would be doing, but she didn’t argue with sitting by the fire for a little while. ”Don’t remind me.” She told her sister, a groan on her lips. Maybe when she explained to her parents they’d take mercy on her and help. It was a long shot, but she deserved to do them all anyway, at least she’d warm her toes for real first. She was told that one day they would know warmth, but for now Shae was thankful for her thick coat and warm siblings.