Silence of the Hillside

Mariah's breath caught in her throat at Cerberus' words, at the raw honesty and yearning in his voice. His paw trailed along her cheek, down her neck and shoulder, the touch both familiar and electric. She leaned into his caress instinctively, her eyes fluttering closed for a heartbeat. When she opened them again, Mariah found Cerberus gazing at her intently, his mint green eyes bright with emotion in the gathering dusk. She understood that longing, that desire for connection and belonging. It echoed the emptiness she had once felt inside her own soul.

Reaching up, Mariah cupped Cerberus' face between her paws, her touch gentle but firm. "I'm here," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the rushing rapids. Mariah held Cerberus' gaze, her silver eyes reflecting the vulnerability she thought she could see in his own. She leaned forward, resting her forehead against his as she breathed in his scent, relishing the closeness between them. Her breath mingled with his in the chill autumn air- his damp fur brushing against hers as she nuzzled into his neck, offering what comfort she could. Or at least, the best she knew how.

"Mariah Mendacium"