Jade Fern Grove defying gravity,

Cole turned, his keen gaze settling on the woman with a mixture of curiosity and something softer as he took in her worn, weary state. The brunette had clearly been traveling hard—her cracked paw pads and the bruised look in her eyes told enough of her story. Despite the exhaustion clinging to her, she held herself with a quiet strength that didn't go unnoticed. Cole offered a small nod, easing the tension in his stance.

Don’t you worry, ma’am, he said, his voice smooth yet grounded, a low Southern drawl warming his words. Ain’t lookin’ to make trouble for a lone traveler. You seem like you’ve had your fair share already. His gaze softened slightly, but he didn’t move closer, respecting her clear discomfort.

Name’s Cole, he offered, his head tilting in a relaxed gesture. These lands ain’t claimed, so you’ve got no need to fret over territory here.” He paused, observing the dark clouds hovering both above and within her eyes. If you’re needin’ a rest, I can point you to a dry spot nearby. Just rain comin’ in if I’m guessin’ right, and no sense in gettin’ caught in it.

Cole watched her for a response, giving her the space to decide if she’d trust him or keep moving.