Swift River Chasing Pavements

<blockquote>The puppies were here. His first birthday was three days away, and he was anxious for the day. Why? He was ready to be counted an adult, ready to take on this new part of life. Indru would be a real dad now, to his kids, and Triell felt that would change things. He wanted to be ready for those changes before they happened. He was sure his brother would not stop loving him, surely his own children would be something special. They after all would have two loving parents Triell never had, and no one could bring back. He wasn't wanting to think of these things, if anything he wanted to pretend everything would continue the same. It wouldn't. They never did, and he had to smother temporary jealously for those puppies who already had more than he. After all, he was pleased they were here, and couldn't wait till they began exploring the outside world. And he would never wish them to be like him.

Collecting a deep breath, the sun was high, and things were getting hot. Black coat surely magnified things, but he pushed himself to his feet deciding to find Ozera. While he waited for the puppies to grow, and get use to this new he needed something to occupy him. He wanted to talk to her. Maybe she could put his mind at ease, assure him he wasn't aweful. Besides, he wanted to go swimming with his friend like she'd promised, and he had questions of other things on his brain. Unsure where she might be, he thought about howling. He didn't want to do that. Call for her like it was necassary. He started a search, gliding past the outskirts of the pack den, detecting no sign, and staying clear of Cori's new family. Next he scouted his den, and the few surrounding, catching her scent, but no sight of her. His lips twisted in a frown, and he walked further along the river hoping to see her somewhere.</blockquote>

are you with me through it all?