Redhawk Caldera she is fierce want, blazing ambition

Hotah listened without interrupting, the tension in his shoulders slowly loosening as her signs shifted softer. Something in his expression eased—not the grief, but the sharp edge of it—replaced by a quiet, raw gratitude.

He let out a long breath, controlled this time, not trembling like before.

When she finished, he stepped closer, enough that their forelegs nearly brushed.

He signed first, slow enough that she could read every motion:

-I know. And I’m grateful.-

Her words—you’re not alone—hit him harder than she’d probably intended. His jaw flexed once before he let out another sigh, softer this time.

He lifted his paw again.

-Thank you… for telling me.-

He dipped his head slightly, voice low but steady. -Your mother has me. Yeah. But I don't have anyone. It feels...lonely, at times.-

Then, gently, sincerely:

-You being here… it helps.-