Moonspear i hope you dance

God, she really was her mother's daughter. The lack of dialogue was strangling him; he found himself struggling, not for words, but for holding back the words he wanted to say. But he knew that would be counterproductive at this point.

I know, kiddo, Killdeer told her, sighing. I'll give you that. Anything you need—I promise.

Well, except for him staying by her side. That, apparently, was a no-go.

He resorted instead to drawing close and resting his muzzle against her head again, taking in her scent. He allowed himself to breathe, breathe deep, and perhaps his heart, for now, beat with hers.

I love you, Treepie, he murmured.