Dawnlark Plains speedy gonzales

It was nirvana, being covered by strong, healthy puppies. He laughed as the happy boy fell across his face and then attacked his ear, rolling his head to give the kid better access. The brave one, placated by his mock surrender, came closer and nosed at his paws, and Shale gave him a gentle boop on the forehead with his snout.

"Strong, brave little guys," he murmured. They reminded him of himself and Grayday, when they were small. His eyes wandered toward the mouth of the den; there was a third, a girl, and he wondered where she was. Shale's stomach squeezed in nostalgia as he realized she was their Sunspot, their lone sister in the litter.

Life had a very funny way of repeating itself.