Redhawk Caldera California sun

She closed her eyes and leaned into both of Peregrine's kisses. Then something struck her like an electric shock. Wildfire didn't mind her father's proximity whatsoever. She hadn't even thought of shying away from it. It made sense, she supposed, though it still took her by surprise. How come Peregrine could touch her without consequence, while she couldn't seem to let Floki into her space much at all?

Wildfire shot her father a smile and echoed his, "Take care," and added an affectionate, "See you, dud." She slowly turned away to depart, her heart feeling heavier with every step she took away from the caldera. She couldn't seem to let go of the fact that Peregrine had been able to enter her space, touch and kiss her, when she wouldn't even give Floki that chance. Bitterly, she realized it was really no wonder he only wanted to be friends.