I looked at the foxkin's hand, a thrill of uncertainty running through me. His smile was warm and encouraging, his fingers curled invitingly. Tentatively, my tail twitching, I reached out, slipping my hand into his. He grasped my fingers gently and gave my hand a little squeeze, holding just long enough that I relaxed before letting go.
"Starlight," I whispered, lowering my head. Perhaps it was just because High Valley was on my mind, but the name came surprisingly easily to my lips.
"An unusual name, but fitting." He flashed a smile at the children, his reddish fox tail giving a light, relaxed flick. It was tipped with white, as were his tufted ears. "Hear that? Starlight. A pretty name for a pretty lady."
"Is she going to play with us?" a girl asked, looking up at me with wide eyes. "I want to braid her hair! It's so long!"
