44. Slow Decisions

Gideon sat on the porch of the pack house, his eyes narrowed as he watched the younger wolves in the field below. They were practicing their fighting techniques, each movement a dance of skill and raw power. He clenched his fist, feeling the unyielding bandages constricting his movements and reminding him, yet again, of his limitations.

"Damn it," he muttered under his breath. He leaned back in the chair and sighed deeply, closing his eyes to shut out the disconcerting thoughts plaguing him.

Avla stepped out onto the porch with two cups of coffee. Sensing his mood, she paused, watching him for a moment. She approached quietly, "Mind if I join you?"

Gideon opened his eyes, and for a moment, they hovered in the spaces between them.. He finally offered a brief smile. "I'd like that."

Avla sat beside him, her thigh subtly brushing against his. They both knew she could've chosen to sit in any other chair around. Physical closeness, however slight, was an unspoken reassurance they both