Bearclaw Valley so close to what

Cole lowered himself to the ground, his large frame folding with a grunt until he lay sprawled before her. His head rested between his paws, ears twitching slightly as he took her words in. Stretched out, he was the height of her chest, and his quiet presence seemed to fill the space between them with a grounding warmth.

He listened carefully, his amber eyes steady and patient as she spoke. When she sighed, admitting the struggles of motherhood, a flicker of understanding passed over his rugged features.

Reckon it takes two to find comfort, he said, his deep southern drawl softer than usual. His nose brushed lightly against her foreleg in a gesture both consoling and unassuming. And I’d say you’re doin’ more than alright, Nephele. Ain’t no easy thing, raisin’ young ones, but you’re stickin’ with it. That’s somethin’.

He lifted his head just enough to meet her gaze, the weight of his sincerity unmistakable. They’ll find their way, just like you did. They got your strength in ‘em, even if it’s a bit quiet right now.

A small, almost boyish smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. ::And if Ana’s quiet and Zephyra’s reclusive, well... reckon they’re just tryin’ to figure out where they fit in. Same as the rest of us.: