Haunted Wood I am a boy of authentic self esteem

"...of course. I've got your back,..."

Clay perked his ears at that and smiled brightly, his grin stretching across his face to show his teeth and puff his cheeks out. He was so glad that Valour said yes! His first friend! "I'll have your back too, Valour." he exclaimed.

Clay wondered what that meant, 'got your back', would he protect him? Clay wasn't sure if he could protect Valour, after all— the pup was bigger than him. Clay hadn't really hit his growth spurt yet, and he wondered once more. Would he ever? Would he be small forever?

His eyes drifted to Valour as he thought, but once he saw the Nightwalker look away, the dusty grey boy sprung upwards and tossed his weight into the larger pup, sending them spiraling about and causing dirt and dust the lift up around them. Clay laughed as he did so, his light, airy tone echoing around them as he began to tussle with Valour. It was easy for him with the element of surprise, and soon Clay found himself standing lightly utop of Valour, tail wagging and paws placed firmly on the boy's chest. "Pinned you!" He giggled.