It was quite the sight watching the large male try to situate himself in the cramped space. Devika found it vaguely amusing, she couldn't imagine how frustrating it must be to carry so much bulk, especially when her own slender form slipped into most places with relative ease.

That amusement was short-lived, though, as a sharp jolt of pain ran through her when her ghostly tail was stepped on. She jerked it close, tucking it protectively against her body. A light nip was offered in response, not out of malice, but as a gentle reminder to be mindful. She wasn’t truly angry, just a little huffy about being stepped on, which she felt was fair enough.

She gave a quick nod to accept his apology, then cast a sidelong glance at his offer to stand guard. Stand guard from what, exactly? They were two sizable wolves nestled in the middle of nowhere. If anyone was foolish enough to try and bother them, they'd be dealt with swiftly, or so the dappled dame believed. Besides, he was the only soul she’d encountered in this snow-laden stretch of land. If others had been more present or persistent, perhaps his caution would’ve made more sense. But they hadn’t been.

With a spark of mischief, she reached out a paw and gently bopped him on the head, amusement glittering in her pale blue eyes. She gave herself a stretch and shifted closer, her body pressing lightly to his as warmth began to meld between them. They were in the Alpines, after all. Wolves or not, the nights were bitter, and it had been far too long since she’d slept near anyone at all.

Any thoughts about making him uncomfortable vanished as she settled beside him. Resting her head atop her paws, she turned her gaze to him, curious to hear if he had more to say. His voice, deep and steady, was pleasant, something grounding and strangely comforting.

But then, as she looked into those molten eyes, a thought surfaced.

Come morning, he would leave.

They always did.

And just like that, the fragile joy she had been clinging to began to dim. The ghost would be left to haunt once more.

Why did that thought ache? Silence and solitude had been her only company for so long. Perhaps it wasn’t the places she would haunt, but him.

The idea made her snort softly to herself. Her, trailing after him like some wordless shadow. The image was ridiculous. But maybe… maybe it wouldn’t be so bad.
Not so lonely.
Not so quiet.