Bitterroot Valley drag me under

sega’s ears tipped, steady despite the weight of her words.

long fall still hurt, even if you land, he murmured.

when she admitted the truth, his gaze softened—only a breath, but real.

dead deserve goodbye, he said. but not alone. too young for that.

he stepped close enough for their scents to meet, rain and river mixing.

you came back. that what matter.

a beat, his voice lower.

i did notice you gone.

then, gently:

next time… let me walk with you.