He grinned, gratified to have made her bashful, and tipped his head to her with the flick of an ear. Then chuckled, All birds are born greedy. Gulls just make it into a kind of profession.

At the sudden scrunch of her expression he frowned back, ear drooping uncertainly. Only to laugh again when he realized she took exception to his meal. Hey now, don't knock it till you try it! A grin. Octopus is — A pause, Well, it's a bit chewy, if I'm being honest. But mixed with the right stuff? Has its charms. A wink.

She really was alone, then. The way she said it, I am now, left him wondering. But he didn't pry. Seemed impolite. Instead, turned his blue eyes back to the woods bordering the beach. I've been there, it's a beautiful spot. He wondered if, during the long winter, he'd trekked past her den? Had they only just missed each other, then? Or was she new to the land?

I will on Walosi claim with a few others, thataway. Nate pointed with a paw. We've been digging gardens and herding elk. Real friendly folk, trying to make something that lasts. I think it's working. It's starting to feel like a home. His chest ached a little at the thought. Would Eleanore have liked it here?

He shook off the sting, and smiled again at Miss Fionnuala, Say, you hungry? You're welcome to come back with me, visit awhile. We'll ah, have more than Octopus on the menu. Promise.