Chapter 12: "Home"
#11 of Flamechild
Tone / Mood: Loving
Summary: Rowen comes home.
The cubs entered the house, quietly closing the door behind them.
Gnar popped out from the hallway, yawning, making Kira nearly leap out of her pelt, "Hey, there is some food I picked up a few hours ago, it should still be warm. It's on the table, a bowl is over it." she said, looking at the smiling cubs. She ruffled their hair, "You smell good! And your fur is so smooth!"
Rowen was embarrassed. Kira just accepted it.
"Heh, it was my first time ever seeing a hot springs."
"How'd you like it," Gnar asked him.
"It was really nice. Thanks for allowing us to stay out and watch the stars." excitement poured out of of Rowen.
"Well, I figured you guys did need a bath, and I thought it'd be good bonding time for you."
Rowen said unexpectedly, "Thanks Mom." Rowen blushed uncomfortably.
Kira and Gnar exchanged glances, both shocked by what they had heard.
Gnar held him to her breast, "You are quite welcome, my cub." She hugged him, "I love you."
"I love you too." A tear of joy rolled from his amber eyes. "Thank you. Thank you for leting me be a part of your family."
Gnar held him tighter.
Kira picked up his paw that was wrapped around her mother and gave it a slow kiss. "Welcome to the family, honey. I love you."
Rowen was part of something. Finally. He fit in. Rowen was home. He was no longer in a house. He was surrounded by four warm walls, two warm people, and the warm thing that makes a house home: love.
Rowen was home.