Panther Park I can't escape you

Taki was observant of her surroundings always, so she had picked up on the shift in things between Taikon and Zephyr. At first she had been confused at the spike of hurt that swelled in her chest anytime she witnessed a look or a touch. It felt too familiar and opened up a lot of old wounds that had never really healed properly. Taikon had all but ignored her since she had woken from her temporary coma. At first she thought he was just giving her space to be mad, but then insecurity put there by her unrequited feelings for Mahler had whispered that it was because he felt more attached to her—more loyal. That was about the time she realized why their closeness hurt so much—her feelings for her friend had developed into far more. And once again, she found herself wanting the love of someone who did not want to give it back. What was it about her that turned them all away? She hated feeling that way about herself; she was strong and confident, and she didn't have time for these messy and painful feelings. But just as she had been afraid of, she had given him the power to hurt her, and then he did. He didn't even know it, and she couldn't tell if that made things better or worse.

Regardless of turmoil in her heart, she had been feeling like she needed to explain herself—why she had gotten so angry with him. It wasn't often she explained herself to anyone, but despite everything, she felt she should to him.

So once Taktuq was sound asleep, she followed his scent from camp. It didn't take her long to find him, and when she did, she chuffed behind him and trotted up to his side. Normally, she would have greeted him with an affectionate touch, but she refrained, the thought of it sending pain through her chest again. Instead, she began speaking. Taikon. I need to talk to you about why I have been so angry with you, she got out. If he was willing to listen, she would continue.