Redhawk Caldera Yeah, I reckon we were heathens

Hotah snorted a quiet laugh, shooting her a sideways look that was all mischief and warmth.

He lifted his paw, signing with exaggerated slowness like he was letting her in on a secret.

-Yes. You.-

Then he added, with a dramatic roll of his eyes:

-All the time.-

His grin widened as he signed the next part, humor brightening his gaze.

-Rather annoying how much she talks about you.-

He huffed a laugh and nudged her shoulder again, a little firmer this time, clearly enjoying her reaction.

When she signed that Towhee had to be proud because she was her mother, he shook his head, lifting his paw once more.

-No. She chooses to be proud.-

Then he leaned in slightly, lowering his voice with mock seriousness.

-Trust me. She complains about everyone else plenty.-

He signed the punchline:

-Except you.-