Bearclaw Valley the 48

Cole stopped just inside the boundaries of Bearclaw Valley, his sharp gaze sweeping the familiar terrain as if seeing it anew. The weight of responsibility settled in his chest—a duty not just to his home but to the girl following silently behind him. Quill, as he’d named her, was an enigma, but there was something about her that made him want to ensure she was safe, even if she hadn’t asked for it.

With a glance over his shoulder, he nodded toward her, gesturing for her to step closer. Then, lifting his muzzle to the sky, he let out a low, resonant howl, the sound carrying through the valley like rolling thunder.

He lowered his head, his amber gaze meeting hers briefly. Stay close, he said quietly, his voice steady. Ameline’ll want to meet you.

He stepped aside slightly, positioning himself just between her and the heart of the valley. Always cautious, always watching.