Bearclaw Valley and heaven knows,

he watched as she worked, silent. and she would watch as she ate her portion. he would press into her touch, returning her affection with his own. but then he would watch, again, as she left. as she headed back for the borders. he would stand there for what felt like hours, long after her figure had left his sight.

frederick forced food down his throat, then. tight, sore. he ate in silence, and he would leave in silence. walking back to the creek with heavy steps.

and he hoped this would be the last time they would have to part in this way.