Sunset Valley you are my sunshine, my only sunshine

the sentiment knocked something loose in her chest, an ache that spilled over before she could catch it.  not you. it sat in her chest like a stone, heavy and unwelcome, only because it made her want.

want for what, she didn't know. she never had. she exhaled sharp, a huffing laugh. twitch turned her head, finally—hazel-eyes turned a little glassy, muzzle pressing tentatively against the ruff of his neck, more instinct than thought. she stayed close, ribs rising slow against his side, breathing him in like proof he was really there.

"i'll try and keep it that way, then." she muttered into his fur. "thanks."