Khyan was here, solid and real against her, his heart thundering against her ribs, his fur damp against her nose. Idalie wished to merge into him, melt into each point of contact, warm in contrast to the cold stream water. Close didn't feel close enough.

His words were sweet in her own tongue, learned just for her. Idalie did not know that love like this had existed before now.

If she could live the rest of her life waking up to this, Idalie could think of nothing she wanted more.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Idalie could do nothing but nod, throat too tight to speak. They were forehead to forehead, nose to nose, and still she wanted to be closer - wanted something more. Idalie pressed a gentle kiss to his nose, his mouth, hoping to show with action what she could not say aloud.

I love you.

I want you.

I am yours.

The river's chill brought her back to reality, and Idalie realized her teeth had begun to chatter, her body had begun to tremble. She didn't want to move from the spot however, and stubbornly buried her face back into his throat, selfishly clinging.