Wapun Meadow Filling out Papers

Irene’s ears flicked forward, catching Hokulani’s words, and a sly grin spread across her lips. Her tail gave a slow, deliberate wag, scattering a small spray of snow.  

Don’t I like freedom? she echoed, tilting her head as if in thought, though her expression betrayed her amusement. Oh, freedom’s fine. Lovely, even. But you know what’s better?

She shifted, stretching luxuriously in the snow, before she turned her gaze toward her with an almost lazy confidence. Being noticed. Having someone pay attention. Freedom’s fun, but it’s better when someone’s watching you enjoy it, don’t you think? 

Her enerald eyes seem to glow like the sole towering tree enduring the winter storm, and she let the silence stretch, as if daring Hokulani to agree—or disagree. Then she let out a soft laugh, light and airy. But maybe that’s just me, she said, her voice lilting as her tail swayed again, her posture exuding ease. What about you, huh? What makes pack life seem like the worst thing ever? 

She smiled, her gaze holding Hokulani’s, relishing the attention even as she turned the focus back onto her companion with practiced charm.