This One Time I Bumped Into You

He was prompt in his answer to her summons. It was only a few moments before she saw him crossing the Plains below, hif familiar russet form following her scent trail and her voice. She waited, outwardly patient, inwardly restless. It was often hard to think when her body was screaming for release. It was hell to sit still for long when her very core vibrated. Finally, she heard his sigh of relief as he crested the trail onto the ledge and came to settle beside her with the habitual brush of his muzzle to her shoulder. The touch sent fire racing down her spine, and the low growl that came out on its own wasn’t one of anger. She shifted away from him, knowing that if she stayed too close to him for too long, she would never be able to think clearly enough to say what she must.

“Yes. I’ve come to a decision regarding Amalia and Athena… And you.” So hard to keep her voice steady for those words. Damned emotions were everywhere. She took a few seconds to gain control of the rampant emotions before gazing out over the Plains again. “Athena cannot stop searching for a brother. I want you to make that clear to her when you see her next. But if she has not found anyone to… to help Amalia…” So hard to breathe. Her eyes squeezed shut, teeth gritting. So hard to fucking breathe. “If she hasn’t found anyone before the end of the next three weeks, then I will… give my consent for you to help them. But never, ever again. Understand that I hold fidelity to the highest regard.” A shuddering breath hissed between her teeth. It was an intertwined mixture of anger, fear, and agonizing sadness, all fighting for supremacy in her gut, ripping their claws wantonly through her heart.

“On another, related matter, I’ve decided not to have a litter this year. I want to get the pack up and running, and it would be best if I weren’t vulnerable in any way. I need to be able to fight if need be to protect our claim here.” She needed to be out there, sparring, showing herself to be strong and competent in a fight, which could help in discouraging others from Challenging for the pack, if they thought there was a possibility of losing. There was always a possibility of losing. “Also, I think Regulus may approach you soon to ask about the birds and the bees; for details only you males would be most aware of. You are a gentleman, so I trust that you will know how to tell him what to do to court a female properly.” Finally, a thread of humor wormed its way into the ball of tension in her chest, enough that a smile was hinted at in her voice.

Walk ---- "Speak" ---- "Hear" ---- Think