Swiftcurrent Creek regret

He was silent for a moment -- his ears twitching at her outburst, his brows furrowing as she flinched at them an instant after. The stress that seemed to weigh heavily upon her shoulders was something he wished he could aide her in-- but he truly did not know how. She was a tender age, and now she held the responsibility of the pack on her shoulders. He wasn't even sure if she realized that it was better this way -- that Fox was not leading them anymore was a blessing.

Her question could have mused many answers from him in that moment. I'm happy with you, was the one that pressed against his tongue so painfully, but he did not relinquish it. Now was not the time. She was far too vulnerable right now, and the last she needed was a confession that would likely only confuse her further.

"Of course I am," he murmured, his muzzle dipping lower to press to her cheek reassuringly. "I wouldn't be here otherwise." But even more important.. "The question is.. are you?"