Redhawk Caldera Back before these calloused hands and all this work

Hotah’s smile deepened, warm and easy, as he listened. There was something about the way Amalia spoke of Towhee that tugged at him—a softness beneath her usual composure that he found endearing.
She’s lucky to have you, he said, voice smooth with quiet admiration. Not many would speak so kindly, let alone mean it. His tail swayed once, slow, a subtle rhythm that matched the fondness in his tone. Towhee’s got that way about her though, doesn’t she? Makes you want to give back what she gives everyone else.
He leaned back on his haunches, the hint of a grin tugging at his mouth. Still, don’t go trying to outshine her just yet. If you make all her days wondrous, she’ll never let any of us forget it.
There was laughter in his eyes then, light and teasing, before he dipped his head in a small, sincere nod. You’ve got a good heart, Amalia. I think the whole caldera’s better for it.