my lungs will fill and then deflate

Aesop's simple presence was often offensive, by virtue of his personality and general ruggedness. There were also a good many wolves who were not so open-minded out there, ones who did not take kindly to Aesop's... preferences. Enough that he had learned to keep them hidden, a jealously guarded secret.

"Traveling was alright. Bit rough, sometimes, when you're on your own for months at a time, but you learn to make the best of what little company you have," he told her. "Yourself." He smiled wide, chuckling softly at his joke. "I stopped because it felt right, and I was tired. I like it here, so I guess I was right to do so."