Hushed Willows Did you hear my covert narcissism I disguise as altruism?

Reina hummed her agreement. ”These trees are nothing similar to those that I’m familiar with back home.” She tried to cover the slight wobble in her voice at the mention of home with a throat clearing. Some days are better than others, but today seemed to be proving more difficult to keep her emotions in check. Weakness is dangerous. But, she didn’t feel any animosity from the golden she-wolf; no, this female was kind and gentle. 

“Reverie. That’s pretty.” She paused for a breathe, remembering the first moment Reverie came upon her. “If I hadn’t known your name, I would have called you Angel.” Her cheeks heated. That was not meant to come out, but there it was. She rolled her eyes at herself—boy, when did she get THIS socially awkward?

The red wolf padded after the gold wolf, her mouth salivated at the thought of real food. Twigs and berries can only go so far for a wolf’s stomach. A loud grumble emitted from deep within, a gnawing she had ignored came to the forefront at rapid speed. It almost made her double over in pain, but her steely composure and her absolute refusal to appear weak kept her upright. 

“I thank you for your hospitality, Reverie. It would benefit me greatly to have at least one good meal and a good night’s rest. And, I have many a good story—all came from my parents. They spent a great deal here in the Teekons as youngsters; found love here, heartache, loss, adventure.” Ocean eyes became misty, but she smiled. The stories allowed her to feel her parents’ presence, she was never truly alone. But, what she would give to feel their hugs and hear their voices again.