Fox's Glade ocean eyes

Cole shrugged, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. I don’t know about all that, he said, his voice low, unhurried, as though he didn’t take the compliment too seriously. Just doin’ what needs doin’.

Amber eyes flicked toward her as they walked, catching the softness in her smile and the light sway of her tail. It was strange, this feeling of warmth that her words and presence seemed to bring. Unfamiliar but not unwelcome.

Teach me to fish? he repeated, a hint of humor in his tone. Well, if you do join, I guess I wouldn’t mind learnin’ a thing or two. His gaze shifted back to the path ahead, the faintest trace of warmth in his usually stoic expression.

As the edge of the meadow loomed closer, he slowed his pace slightly, dragging out the moment before he’d have to part ways with her. Take your time thinkin’ on it, he said, glancing her way again. Ain’t no rush. But I’ll be around if you need anything.

With that, he fell into a companionable silence, letting their steps carry them forward, already hoping to cross paths with her again.