Redhawk Caldera Betting on the bull in the heather

She was a curious thing, commanding more of Whip's attention with every tentative step. He watched with rapt, undivided interest. Yet, remaining cautious, Whip allowed her to make an approach on her own terms.

When the stranger drew close, Whip did not shrink away. Though there was an initial air of hesitation to him, as he took in her scent, he felt it melt away into a warm place. The ice bath in the stream was no more than a passing thought now. Fleeting; like a leaf in the wind. He dared not second guess himself now. 

The gap between them was nearly nonexistent. She brushed against him lightly and in its wake, an anticipatory tension welled. He felt spry. Young and new. Tail wagging behind him, Whip bowed before her in an instinctual and wordless invitation to give chase.