Ouroboros Spine It matters not how strait the gait,

He had not left her. He stole through in the brush and kept downwind, out of sight and out of mind. He ate little, slept even less, and did nothing more than follow from a distance. If she had ever been aware that he shadowed her, she did not show it.

His eyes were hot and focused. His lips drawn straight as his jaw clenched. His muscles were taught on his powerful frame. The time was now, and he made his appearance known. He broke from his cover and moved in with purpose. He did not carry himself as he normally would have, with his body lowered and mannerisms showing deference. No, his head was high and he had drawn himself to his full height. He was here to claim, and strode confidently to her. His ears were twisting, to catch any sounds of any other challengers, but his eyes were burning on her.