Broken Boulder daddy's ghost behind you,

there wasn't much that'd pierce through the armor dolce wore. not much warmth that'd fill his chest to blossom and bloom. but the little dove's bright, wide smile was strong enough to chink. he found himself with a boyish grin, a pride that he'd made her react so vividly. he felt like a younger man again, chasing after a woman who was too good for him. 

and she was, undoubtedly. too soft, too sweet. but old habits die hard, it seems, as he finds himself anticipating this chase. 

"you talk as much as you want, darlin'. i ain't the best conversationalist, but i can listen." if she wished to chat his ear off, then so be it. he'd stay rooted to the spot, enchanted by this little snow-mistress. 

there was a hesitation on her end. he could've suspected that answer—many lone wolves desire to settle down, find some peace and company. where would she end up? and would she forget about him, wherever she planted her roots? 

he pushed those thoughts aside, as it wasn't his place to wish for such domestic things. she'd move on with her life, and he'd move on with his. but for now, he had her attention, and that was good enough. "reckon any pack would be scramblin' to let you join. you'd have 'em head over heels, with that charm o' yours." he rumbled with deep laughter. 

his smirk turned roguish. "friends, huh? dunno if you'd wanna find that in me, dove. i ain't exactly the best company." not for her. his loyalties ran deep with the wrong crowds, his moral compass still broken and clouded. he'd be only but a dark cloud, hanging over such a radiant little star. 

"hmm, i ain't too sure. haven't run with a pack in a long, long time." he gave a roll of his shoulders, perhaps a distant look in his eyes. "been alone for a while. gotten used to it. dunno if pack life would want me."