Fox's Glade returners

Cole greeted her with a subtle nod, his amber eyes catching hers briefly before they trailed off to the horizon. The sunrise bathed the glade in warm light, and for a moment, he seemed content to let the silence linger. When Winslet spoke, her concern wrapping around the question of his injuries, he shrugged in his usual, understated way.

They’ll heal, he said simply, brushing off her worry with the same nonchalance he applied to most things. There was no need to make a fuss over something as small as a few scratches.

Instead, he shifted the focus to her. How’ve you been doin’? he asked, his tone even but with a thread of curiosity. His gaze softened, the faintest hint of a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. You made up your mind yet?

Though his words were casual, there was a subtle weight to them. He was glad she had come, glad to see her looking lighter, freer, than before. Whatever decision she had reached, he hoped it was one that would bring her peace.