The Pack

Chapter Nine

Luna shifted her paws as she stared at Eclipse.
His dazzling green eyes stared back and he grinned at her. She could tell that he was waiting for her explanation, and he was holding back his impatience. For what reason, she couldn't be sure.
Am I making the right decision?
She took a deep breath and decided to go for it.
"Eclipse... I know we've only known each other for a little while... but I know I can rely on you to have my back."
He nodded slowly, urging her to go on.
"And I know you'll understand when I say this..."
She looked deep into his eyes and she knew that she couldn't turn back now. She continued, slowly but surely.
"I want to start a pack."
His eyes widened and his grin disappeared.
"What? I don't think I heard you right."
Confusion was clear on his face as she searched for something to say.
Is he really confused? Or is he just not listening?
She sighed.
"I want to start a pack."
He looked at his paws.
"That's what I thought you said. So you probably want me to leave then."
Luna stared at him, her eyes wide and her mouth parting slightly.
Why would I want him to leave?! What is he not getting here?!
"No! That's not at all what I meant! I want you!"
Her mouth snapped shut as soon as she said it and she shifted uncomfortably. She avoided his gaze as his shocked eyes searched hers.
That was beyond stupid. I blew it. He's going to leave me behind with that klutz Misty.
"You... want me?"
She met his gaze again and she saw something flicker in his eyes.
Maybe he does feel something.
"If I said yes, would you abandon me?"
She had never felt so vulnerable in all of her life. They stood there in silence, waiting for the other to speak. Neither of them knew what to do.
Then Eclipse spoke up, his voice soft and comforting.
"I would never leave you, Luna."
"You wouldn't?"
"Never."
He stepped forward, his movements unsure.
Luna didn't flinch away.
He grinned and nuzzled her face and neck. She smiled and buried her face in his fur.
She felt his muscles move beneath her face and she moved even closer to him. He put his head over hers and let out a soft growl.
"I think you're making the right choice," he whispered.
"We. We're making the right choice."
She felt his body move next to hers as he uttered a low chuckle.
"I guess it is we now, isn't it?"
"I think it is."
She eased out of their embrace and batted him playfully with her paw. He tackled her and they tumbled onto the dirt, both of them laughing hysterically.
They had never felt so free, so alive.
Luna laid on top of him, effectively pinning him to the ground.
They smiled at each other and their eyes sparkled.
So this is what love feels like.