[ the thought rolls over in his mouth, as much as chuck is prone to consideration at all- much less consideration that comes before opening his mouth. having max around was easy. dogs look for leadership and direction, not good people. chuck doesn't need to be kinder or gentler or anything but exactly what he is for max to come padding after him. that the wolf follows his paces, moves in her circles around his legs, keeps their proximity tight- is equal parts familiar and unexpected.
his reply is largely for the animal herself, and not the mistress who speaks on her behalf. chuck's gaze doesn't lift. he watches the fold of her ears and the steady line of her body. ]
Give it a week.
[ it isn't wholly self-deprecation so much as it is wry observation. knowledge gleaned from experience. chuck doesn't keep company and equally- company doesn't keep him. ]
» action.
his reply is largely for the animal herself, and not the mistress who speaks on her behalf. chuck's gaze doesn't lift. he watches the fold of her ears and the steady line of her body. ]
Give it a week.
[ it isn't wholly self-deprecation so much as it is wry observation. knowledge gleaned from experience. chuck doesn't keep company and equally- company doesn't keep him. ]