Crocodile tears

Rudy could have informed Fern that so long as someone wasn’t charging to tackle him and force him in place he was fine.  He would tell her but, later.  This time he’s also paying attention to her words.  Bravest wolf she knew?  Rudyard had felt brave and bold up until Oxx happened.  Now?  Fear biting?  Panicking when pinned?  How did that speak bravery?  It still sounded nice hearing Fern call him brave.  Her head pressed up against his chest had his heart hammering louder at her closeness.  This wasn’t what he’d imagined would happen when he found Fern.

It was good the crocodile wasn’t coming back as the smaller wolf had his full focus right now.  Lowering his head he rested it against the back of her neck, only moving it when Fern backs up.  Rudy meets her eyes evenly as Fern assures him that his secret will be kept.  It wasn’t a thing he planned to go telling anyone but, he’d hurt her.  She deserved to know why.

The change in topic was welcome and surprising.  The somber setting pushed aside for something that offered more fun.  The motley wolf’s mind hadn’t been much interested in fun lately but Fern’s reminder and interest in it stirred his desire to let her at least enjoy it.  “Of course, wherever you want.” Rudy nudged Fern’s shoulder gently as he started walking, “For now let's finish a walk, then back to the castle.  You’re wounded and I’m winded.”  He did pause suddenly swiveling his head back to Fern, “I was going to come after you, I swear I was.  I just needed to get a bit better for traveling.”

Rudyard Carpathius