The Heartwood I've been cold, I've been merciless

Speedy perked up at the mention of his family. At their last meeting, he had only talked about his parents. With surprise on her face, she asked, "Family? I assume it's not your parents?" She had many questions, but didn't want to bombard him. She wanted to give him the choice to offer more details.

She nodded and listened to his wise words, agreeing that she should stay true to herself. When he called her his friend, she gave him a big grin. She nudged him and said, "Don't worry, I already considered you my friend, so you didn't have much choice in the matter."  

When he offered for her the possible option of joining his pack, he looked way from her. A feeling of gratitude washed over, and she quietly replied, "Thank you, Siarut, that means a lot." She nudged his turned cheek with her soft muzzle, wanting him to look back at her.