Lake Rodney You don't get old by being stupid

Haha, seems both of us are busy with life these days! No worries :)

As the pair walked, continuing to distance themselves from the grizzly, Teemu felt the tension in his shoulders melt away. He hadn't realized how defensive he'd grown over his time living alone, drifting further into unknown lands. This quiet recognition, he supposed, was the reason why the female's next words didn't surprise him. I don't know how she does it, Teemu thought, referring to her choice to live alone, But, then again, she only has one mouth to feed and one life to protect, and that is her own. Her choices are hers and hers alone.

Teemu watched the dark wolf's face out of the corner of his eye. Her words had relayed the message perfectly - even sharing her identity with others was a matter of safety for the lone female. While he knew from personal experience that there were wolves in the world that would happily lie through their teeth for their own personal gain, Teemu was rigid in his ways, particularly when it came to matters of trust and loyalty. Although the pair were nothing more than acquaintances, and their exchange rather brief, she had given Teemu no reason to distrust her. She'd even divulged a few helpful tidbits of information regarding the surrounding area. With a simple nod of understanding, Teemu's voice was soft, yet serious, in tone, "I understand. I am nothing but a stranger to you. Your judgement on the matter is yours to make. Until then, maybe I shall simply call you 'dear', my dear."

He ended with another smile, as it seemed he couldn't keep one from his face for too long. Her company had brightened his day considerably, and the old man was grateful for the friendly conversation.