Whitebark Stream time don’t make it better

surya couldn't resist smiling wider as the boy tried to speak. chhhohhttu, he drew the word out, walking a fine line between helpfulness and condescension. (he hoped he landed on the side of the former.) it means 'small,' because you're small. . .but you won't be small forever.

he cocked his head, raising his brows. what's your name? he asked, then added, chuckling, i can't call you chhotu when you're big.

were kavik or grezig watching? he enjoyed interacting with the boy for his own sake, but getting himself further into the parents'—and the pack's—good graces was beneficial. perhaps babysitting was his calling? it wasn't the most glamorous of pastimes, but it was helpful all the same.