Stavanger Bay I barely dreamt her yesterday

Sumac fell into an easy pace alongside Raindrop. His tail resumed its typical brushing of his hocks, though there was a hitch here and there that betrayed the hammering of his heart. He’d rehearsed this conversation in his head a thousand times, practiced it aloud to himself when no one was around, but still, it did nothing to assuage his fears now that he was committed and in the thick of it. No turning around now, ‘Mac, not that it was ever an option.

“Ah, I see,” he replied gently, swallowing his stutter the best he could, “That makes perfect sense to me.” At this, his spirits lifted - so, she was building a den out of practicality. He should have known, and could have laughed aloud at himself for assuming, for being so foreboding.

His pace became lighter, and he nodded at her prudence at skirting the plateau.

“Any family or friends nearby?” He continued as casually as possible, trying to get a read of any possible relations she may have. It would be important information, one way or another. “Er, sorry if I’m prying. Just… trying to get to know you better, is all.”