Why did it feel as though she could see all of him? As if that teal gaze could catch every hesitation, every doubt. Was he becoming careless, or was she something else? Something more?

Drawn from his thoughts by the touch of her muzzle against his, Dante couldn’t stop the smirk that tugged at his maw.

And leave you to do all the work? No, I don’t think so.

With that, he pulled himself free from their tangle in the pool and gave his pelt a quick shake, sending droplets scattering in her direction. A low chuckle followed as he slipped just out of reach of any retaliation.

His dark tail wagged lazily behind him, body relaxed despite the weight of everything they had discussed. He set it aside for now, carefully tucking it away for later thought, and returned his full attention to Apple.

You coming? Or are you just going to sit in that pool while I do the dirty work?

His tone was openly teasing, easy, and patient.