Before settling by the fire, Lavayla first slipped into the hollow where the baby waited. He wasn't playing anymore . The moment her shadow crossed the entrance, the little cub's wide, watery eyes snapped toward her, his tiny fists waving urgently in the air as he let out a wobbly, demanding, "Aaah—!"
Lavayla's heart melted on sight.
"There you are," she murmured, warmth blooming in her chest as she crouched down.
The baby immediately reached for her — or, well, flailed enthusiastically in her general direction — and Lavayla scooped him gently into her arms. He quieted at once, pressing his soft cheek against her collarbone with a relieved sigh, his small fingers grabbing onto her shirt like he was afraid she'd disappear again.
Behind her, Eiran followed in steady, silent steps. His ears flicked once, almost imperceptibly, as the baby let out another small, contented coo. Lavayla adjusted her hold and offered the tall teenager a soft, grateful nod.
"Thank you for watching him."
