Redsand Canyon And I can't help it it's the way I'm wired

I'm happy, he responded. He could be more convincing about it, but he did smile, and wag his tail. He was happy enough. Just. . .disconcerted, what with everything going on—and everyone leaving—lately.

He sucked in a breath at her question, even if it was teasing. Of course not, he replied gravely. I really haven't even thought about being promoted, Ma.

He wasn't a slacker, but nor was he the hardest worker among them all. He was the epitome of a middle-tier man, coasting through life, doing what he needed to do to skirt by.

He would never be a leader. And he was okay with it.

I just wanna make sure everyone's okay and safe, Killdeer reiterated, shrugging, then gave his mother a lick on the cheek.