Wheeling Gull Isle xviiii. letting your guard down is honourable

Daegon woke with a yawn, stretching and then freezing when he realized he couldn't feel his love's warmth at his side. He listened for a few seconds, ears turning to take in any sounds outside that might mean she had just stepped out briefly, but all he heard was the crashing of water on rock and the occasional squawk of a sea bird. After their first night together, he hadn't wanted to sleep alone anymore; he had spent enough nights with only his thoughts and longing to keep him company, and he didn't plan on spending anymore that way. 

Rising to his feet, he shook out his autumn coat and padded from the cave. He picked up her scent almost right away and immediately began to follow it down the beach and then inland towards the forest. As he moved, he idly wondered if she minded that he had just inserted himself into her private space. He, honestly, couldn't help it. When she wasn't near him, he felt lost. She was already his anchor--his port in the storm. And although it wasn't exactly practical or fair for him to demand her attention every second of every day, he couldn't stop himself from seeking her out now just because. 

Her trail led through the trees, becoming fresher as the forest thinned into a clearing where he saw her diligently working over what appeared to be gardens. She was definitely in her element, and it showed in the meticulous way she worked. He had no doubt that the plants would flourish under her expert care.

He quickly moved towards her, a soft chuff leaving his chest as he neared. Taking a seat, he couldn't help the slight pout in his expression as he stated: You were gone when I woke.