Redhawk Caldera Hands off, no trash talk, no back walk

Thanks for the thread, bbs! <3

After a time, all four pups settled into apparent sleep and the dark den filled with quiet stillness. Despite the atmosphere which definitely lent itself to sleep, the middle-aged father remained wide awake. Every little wriggle, quiet, dreamy whimper and thrust of a tiny paw captured his attention. He could stare at each tiny, squished face for what seemed like hours at a time.

A sound from outdoors caused him to look up, eyes narrowed and a growl bubbling to his lips. He rose slowly, to avoid disturbing Fox and the pups, to investigate. It was only a wayward squirrel, which darted away the instant he slunk from the den. The Alpha male stood there a long moment, watching and listening, then ducked back into the den to keep his watchful, tender vigil.