Swiftcurrent Creek if you spent your whole life working

It was a whine, piercing in the back of her throat. She had been prepared for it but it stung all the same. She had sought him out! She picked him for — for everything. The strength, the creek, the safety he offered so freely.

They did not have to be good to deserve this moment. Especially if he allowed her permission.

Safe. Her ears pinned back to her head and she tucked herself sharply underneath his neck. Against the curve of his chest. She had not yet gone running to the arms of Arric or Lestan, or beyond the creek. She trembled against him for a moment.

Another low whine that petered off into a crooning note.