---

Nutuyikruk was lost in many thoughts before turning to see the eyes of him. He stays. For whatever reason. Aivar jumped on the one leg, and despite whatever pain that caused, held a smile. One was not returned, for she looked ahead next and continued to walk the waters edge. An ear flicked, nose awkwardly nudging backwards in the direction of him, but she saw only the snow below their feet.

“..Sure.”

Caribou rested on the lakeside across from them, grunting with their strong throats and lifting their heads high. Cows stood near their growing offspring, and the bulls moved closer along the water. They knew well of wolves, yet did not leave.

She searched for words that would offer better company than the surge of emotions in her body now, but those feelings would not die and Nutuyikruk felt deep shame. Only continued to walk, and did not expect Aivar to maintain interest in her.