Stavanger Bay losing feeling's getting old

he reassured her that she was okay, and that she was awake. both things dalia knew but... needed to hear. they were more comforting said aloud, and by velen, than they were thought in her own head -- which also yelled multitudes of other things at her. 

his muzzle against her cheek brought warmth to them, hot against the chill of the winter night. she usually felt confused and uneasy by the feelings, but on such a cold night -- and feeling so exhausted -- dalia almost welcomed them. feeling bold, she touched the bottom of his chin with her nose, appreciation for his words, and asked, "would you stay with me, just for the night?" but after she asked she felt sheepish again, her ears pressing back. she added, not wanting to seem so desperate and needy, "or just for a little bit."