Stone Circle Be prepared

Despite being the one to have initiated contact, this time, the male had to force himself not to fight against the feeling of Stephie snuggling into his chest. It felt strange and unnatural to have the child so close - he didn't know where to rest his head, or if she would be able to breathe if he laid it on his paws.

But he took a deep breath and tried to relax, and gradually, seemed to acclimate to the girl's weight on his forelegs. He shifted around for a few minutes, trying to figure out where she would fit if he tried to go back to his nap, and eventually found he could lay his head down in a way that both kept her safe and covered and that was only mildly - rather than awfully - uncomfortable for him.

Eventually, his eyes were closed and his breaths came deep and easy. Murdock slept, and dreamed sweet, pleasant dreams.