Bearclaw Valley if he fell in love

for @Towhee Jr

rumors traveled fast in bearclaw, and they hadn’t spared him. whispers of her condition had reached his ears, setting a fire of questions in his mind. yet she hadn’t told him. and so, he was here, determined to hear it from her lips—no, her paws.

he strode closer, his breath misting in the cool air, a warm chuff escaping his throat as he neared her. he kept his gaze pinned firmly to her face, careful not to let it wander—though it took every ounce of restraint he possessed.

when he was close enough, he leaned in without hesitation, his cold nose brushing hers before his tongue darted out for a brief, tender kiss. it was an affectionate gesture, uncharacteristic in its softness—he was putting his foot forth in being more direct with his affections. tvar didn’t wait to see how she might react, instead pulling back just enough to sign quickly with his paws, goodmorning, towhee.

his lips curved into a smile. without skipping a beat, he added, have you ate yet?