Shake out your boots

His wolf faced him, and he met her gaze. Refusing anything less, as he sought to read her through her expression. Her words seemed sincere, but he was sure he had read hurt in the way she had turned from him. He watched as her coat slipped down, allowing a cool breeze to ruffle a coat meant for a different climate. He reached forward, bringing him in closer to her as he tugged on the wool. Bringing it back over her shoulder. Then, he pulled on each corner and tucked them under the polar bear armor. Offering them more stability.

He snorted at her words at finding a reason to live. Not because he thought of her for thinking it, but for his own struggled on that front. Logically, he knew he had so much. So many needed and relied on him. He would do irreparable damage if he chose to do anything less. But logic and emotion didn't think the same way. "I find I seek to surround myself with wolves that aren't afraid to push me, Keahi." He thought of Tamsyn, of who she had been when she had been his. He missed her and the steady presence she had been. She had never backed down when they disagreed, and he had respected her for it. He missed that, too. "I will tell you that you aren't likely to damage our friendship by pushing." He promised her. He released his paws from her shoulders, his fiddling complete. Turning to look at the storm, which rumbled over the horizon. A blackness in the sky thay swallowed everything beneath it.

He closed his eyes, listening with satisfaction to the deep bass rumble. "Stay with me through the storm" Zee begged. He closed his eyes tigher for a moment, bresthing in a shallow breath. Seeking out the familiar scent of her. But when the Warlord opened his eyes again, it was Keahi who sat before him. Her words had been different. Her tone indicating enjoyment, not fear. His eyes crinkled in pain, and he turned his gaze away again. Back to the storm. "Storms used to terrify her. Too loud, too violent. It's a wonder she ever chose me." He said. Closing his eyes, so she wouldn't see the tears he barely succeeded in holding back.