(390)[html]
Claudius wanted to run into his sister’s arms and give her all the hugs he had never gotten to give her throughout his life. He knew it was probably childish, silly, and naiive; but he wanted to do it anyways. After his mother’s departure, he had almost thought he’d have to strike it out on his own in AniWaya and that had scared him silly.
He jogged toward his sister with a huge, silly grin on his face. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to giv her a hug with that giant horse nearby, but if his sister was home, he would have to be brave. He nodded quickly in response when he assured him she was a good horse – unlike the other large beasts housed on AniWaya soil.
And suddenly, just like her departure and re-arrival, Claudius was smothered in his sister’s embrace. He wagged his tail happily and gave her a big sloppy lick to show her how much he had missed her.
“I missed you!” he said at some point. He was too happy to care if he said it when he should have; he had missed her and now his sister was home! His smile faltered when Oce mentioned their mother, but Claudius was too busy hugging her to respond. He used this as an excuse not to answer her and instead let go, allowing his sister some breathing room.
He began to step back to give her some more space when he heard another voice. Startled, he jumped a few centimetres and whipped his head around to see who was interrupting them. She introduced herself and Claudius immediately felt his hackles rising. What was she doing here? She was ruining everything! He didn’t care who she was or what she wanted – Ocèane was his sister, not hers – and he should be the one to welcome her home. She then asked if he knew her and Claudius had to force himself not to stare open-mouthed. Of course he knew her! Didn’t the wolf hear him say, Ocèane, you’re back? Obviously that would imply an acquaintanceship between them. He harumph’d and replied with a quick, “of course I do,” in a quiet voice. However, Oce’s louder – and more appropriate – response drowned him out. Claudius was a little happy for that. She could be the mature one again.