Redhawk Caldera breaking the habit

It turned out that Pan didn't want anything specific, besides the pleasure of Peregrine's company. Of course, he wasn't exactly in the right state of mind for providing fellowship. Pan had probably come looking for the caldera's Alpha in all his glory, after all, and instead he got this miserable shadow. While Peregrine appreciated being sought in such a way, he knew his company was wretched right now. Perhaps, given time, he would be able to provide the amity Pan deserved. Right now, though...

"I'm sorry, I'm not very good company right now. But I'd like to spend more time with you, Pan," Peregrine said in a soft but earnest tone. "Once some of this blows over..." Not that he really thought it would, at least anytime soon. "I'd like to spend more time with you and get to know you better, if you're still interested." He paused for several seconds, then exhaled and said, "Right now, I'd better get back to Wifi and the other kids."

He rose slowly, like an old man with the weight of the world on his shoulders. He was carrying quite a burden, though nothing he hadn't brought on himself. Peregrine paused, then reached out for one last touch. His nose pressed into the side of Pan's neck. He then turned and began picking his way back to the rendezvous site, so Fox could keep an eye on him while he made sure he was around for the pups.