Redhawk Caldera But in her eyes, we were saints

Morning, he supplied, lips curving into a small, tired smile. Barely.

He nudged one of the cleaner pieces a little closer with his paw. -Figured you’d want the good cuts first.-

The pups wriggled at her side, and his gaze softened instinctively. He leaned forward to brush his nose gently over Fairywren’s head, then Tawny Lark’s, to Peregrine's, careful not to wake them fully.

Towhee’s thanks pulled his focus back. He gave a simple, warm nod.

-You’re welcome,- he said, voice low, easy. -Jr did good out there. Strong runner.-

He stretched out beside her—not quite touching, but close enough their warmth met in the small space between them—and let out a slow exhale.

I’ll bring more if you want it. he said, facing her. As she's been preoccupied in this den, the thought lingered in his mind, -Any tasks you need me to do in your stead?-