It hadn’t even occurred to her to lie, or hide her feelings. She wanted Chan’s approval, needed it, even if he didn’t think so. And just seeing him nod took a big weight off her shoulders, her smile returning, though softer now, more profound.

As she paused, his voice softly spurred her on. Amber eyes raised to look at him again, open and earnest. “One thing I realized after joinin’ th’ Cove’s that fam’ly’s more than blood,” she started, voice still soft, but unshaking; “That y’ have the chance t’ choose fer y’self, who really matters to you.” She tried to hold his gaze for as long as she could, but finally had to turn her eyes down, biting her lip nervously. The truth was her fear of rejection extended beyond Gwen. But this was something she needed to say, to find out now if she was on the wrong track and have time to turn back. Taking a deep breath, she looked back up at Chan, stating bluntly: “You do Chan. You… Y’r family to me.”

Her lips quivered into a tender smile, shoulders sagging. She’d never felt so vulnerable in her life, opening up this way, but to her relief, Chan had taken her words as she meant them, returning the sentiment. With a soft sigh, she leaned into his embrace, running her own muzzle up his shoulder in return. “And you’re mine,” She mumbled into his fur.

Once again, she felt her instincts react to his closeness, her body tingling all over, flashing hot where their bodies touched. But this time she didn’t mind so much, allowing the buzz to fill her head for a moment, crowding out all other thoughts. When she finally pulled away, it was only far enough to meet his eyes, her voice husky as she asked: “How about you? Have y’ found out… What y’re missing?” It seemed like forever ago, but their conversation still stood out clearly in her mind. They’d come far since then, but they still had a ways to go; But at least I can see the trail now…