Hideaway Strath What you give

They passed into the passages, slowing for the dipped roofing and tight turns and squeezes.
The stone and dirt floor was even colder on his paws, but his thick coat too suffocated him with heat.
He wanted to roll in the snow outside.
But he was too curious to turn back.

But Arlette really had to turn down the deepest, darkest tunnel.
His eyes hadn't yet adjusted to the light, and soon enough her pale pelt was swallowed in the darkness. Derg fumbled and slowed, trying to listen for her breathing.
He followed her soft pants into the darkness.
Trusting her fully.
"Arle-" A splash of water.

"Arlette?!" He rushed forward a few more steps, shoulder banging against the walls, until he was blessed with the pale sunlight bouncing off the pool of water Arlette now bathed in.
His heart lurched at the sight. Beautiful.

He moved forward, feet light on the dusty floor.
He smiled, dipping his head as he too stepped into the lake.
He pushed out, swimming after her. There was no rush, just joy.
He moved to her side, softly reaching to nip her fur.