Stone Circle Momma is there for you

Steph had stayed inside the den for two full days, mostly sleeping in whatever comfortable position she could find, which wasn't often. Her side hurt every time she tried to move, so she didn't. She was forced to lay on her side instead of curling up, because that made it hurt even worse. It also hurt to take a deep breath, so Steph made sure not to exert herself. Sleeping was the easiest thing to do to keep herself out of pain.

On day three, Steph could not stand the confines of the den any longer, and made her way slowly to the entrance. She made it about a foot out and laid down on her stomach, keeping her back legs under her to support her body. She was still as Valette tended to her wounds, her tail wagging a bit to show her appreciation. She winced a little as the vegetation was pushed into her flesh, but she did not protest as she knew it would futile. Besides, she got herself into this mess, she felt she deserved the pain she got.

Her mother rarely left her side, and it made the pup feel both awful and grateful at the same time. Valette, as the Alpha, was supposed to be securing borders and making sure everyone stayed in line. Steph knew she was taking up far too much of her time. She could see the worry on her mother's face, and tried to make her feel better. I'm okay, Momma, she said softly.