Stone Circle [M] To love you more

Almost as if out of a dream, Valette appeared. Had he conjured her? He smiled as she approached, all business-like in her talk of the herd. She was so dedicated to providing for the pack, and she took it very seriously. Just like an Alpha would. And to Steady, Valette  was his equal. She had every quality the pack would want in a leader, including Steady's heart. He could remember the first time he met her, on the border's of her pack, giving him bad news about her mother. She had been young then, but still so mature. She had handled, as far as he knew, her mother's passing with grace, and moved on to create the life she wanted. This was the life she wanted, right? 

Their past had been complicated, with she involved with Mason, and then Ezekiel, and he with Niita. But, it seemed fate would have them together. The lost relationships were hard, but Steady felt that everything had happened for a reason; it had brought them here today. 

He smiled at her. Let the bison go for now, he said softly, moving to nuzzle her neck. I have no doubt you will track them down again. Valette was too stubborn of a hunter to simply not find them again. Her determination would drive her to them, he knew. But, for right now, he wanted her to focus on him.

He took a step back, studying her for a moment, trying to find the words. We've been a partnership for a while now, he pointed out. You've always had my back, and I hope you know I've always had yours. We're raising two beautiful children together, and we work great as a team. But, he added, it's become more than that for me. I've fallen in love with you, Valette, he said, finally. He waited, then, gauging her reaction. He felt an odd sort of calmness now, and none of the anxiety he thought he would have at finally telling Valette of his feelings.