Fox's Glade returners

with a gentle huff, she chided him. "you should be resting. wounds will heal faster when you're not on your feet." it was out of compassion and not ire. though she hardly believed a busy man like cole would stay put for long. 

when his question came, winslet couldn't hide the small, warm smile it brought. sage eyes flitted to the horizon, where the sun had reached half-mast in the sky and the snow-laden meadow was lit with gold. "i've been alright." lighter she felt, ever since she'd met him. she couldn't understand why, no less explain it, but his company and encouragement had eased her heavy soul. "i'm becoming fond of this meadow."

she had considered his offer. it's all that had been on her mind for the past few days. at first, it intimidated her, as she'd convinced herself that she would be of no use to a pack. not when she failed her kingdom, and not when she was a mere shell of her former self. 

but then came the thought of being apart of something greater again. not as a princess, as those days were long behind her and she wished not for any throne or pledges...but to simply enjoy herself again, while learning who she would now become. she might not be useful to bearclaw now...

but she could be. and that hope is all she needs. "i've thought about it a lot, and...i think i can do it. try to fit into bearclaw." and subsequently, try to mend herself. 

alas, there was a residual insecurity. a doubt. "are you sure they'd want me?" it was a gentle question, one that spoke volumes.