Mudminnow River Eridanus

he'd been relegated to the doghouse yet again by the missus.

well, quasi-missus, as rib was more a rebound for a rebound. there was still hope oldskin might take him back, so he held on. even though days passed like sand between talons. even though he could feel this new flame fizzling out. 

yet another.

yonder picked about the rivershore, at long intervals fishing out pebbles he thought looked decent, forming a small pile on dry land. maybe rib might be persuaded to let him nest with her tonight, if he bought her love with gifts. she so loved gifts.