Meadowlark Prairie temperature

He hadn't been referring to the incident with the cougar; that had been more of a joint effort. But he caught the incredulous look she gave him as she asked for confirmation that they had killed the creature. He nodded. Yes, we did. We had to or it would have killed us. It still managed to get in a few good swipes at us, though. He shrugged a little with his retelling. He had been trained to do that and more, and he hadn't thought of much while in the moment other than surviving and keeping Nirali alive. I was referring to how we first met, he added next. Apparently her sister hadn't said anything about it. I was swimming in a creek near the southern end of the mountains. A big log came out of nowhere and knocked me out. It messed up my leg pretty bad. It had been a freak accident. How many times had he been in creeks just like that without any incident? I would have died if your sister hadn't found me and helped me. That's why I stuck around; I owe her my life. He paused before continuing, his words a little hesitant. And lately...well, I've had more reasons to stay. He took a cue from her and indirectly told her what he wanted to say because it was easier than the actual words.