Delicate snowflakes, like tiny ballerinas, pirouetted and twirled in the chilly air, descending from the sky to blanket the ground below. The landscape softened under the silent ballet as if nature itself was taking a deep, hushed breath.

It was quiet as the world transformed into a winter wonderland. Blazemoche filled the cabin and soft breaths emanated from a peacefully sleeping Carwyn. Eira sat nestled in the window seat, savoring the enchanting view.

For the first time in months, the outside world seemed to move at a slower pace, wrapped in a cocoon of serenity. The snow accumulated on branches and the ground, transforming everything into a pristine canvas.

A blank sheet. A new page. A fresh start.

She glanced at Carwyn only to find him watching her. The cozy atmosphere enveloped them.

"Morning," he smiled, and she returned it.

"I made coffee."

Carwyn stretched as he sat up. "Thanks. I prefer to go hunt after an injury. Helps my rusty muscles."

Eira hummed. "I'll pack us some food then. I'd love to stretch my legs as well. I haven't left the cabin since I came." When he perked up at her suggestion, she couldn't help but be reminded of a dog wagging its tail. Suppressing her laughter, she went to get ready. 

Packing some snacks and a thermos full of freshly brewed coffee in a little basket, Eira bundled up in layers to ward off the cold. Just as she tugged down her beanie, Carwyn slipped out. The rustling of clothes soon followed and she flushed, willing her heart to calm down. The attraction was growing stronger, faster than she expected.

Pulling on her boots, she headed out to find a large wolf sitting on his hind legs waiting for her. His chocolate fur gleamed, a stark contrast against the surrounding white scenery. His tongue was out, and his mouth was wide, almost as if he were grinning.

"Cheeky," she chuckled. Carwyn barked, gesturing toward the neatly folded clothes. Eira nodded, stuffing them in her backpack. "Lead the way, Mr. Werewolf."

As they ventured into the woods, the cold air invigorated their senses. The stillness of the forest was broken by the crunching of snow beneath her boots and the occasional chirping of birds, while Carwyn was as silent as the experienced predator he was. The distant rustling of leaves added a melody to their exploration.

Eira couldn't help but marvel at the beauty around her. The tall trees, the whispering wind, and the scampering tiny animals. 

After a while, they found a serene clearing. The winter sun cast a warm glow on the snowy expanse, and the air carried a peaceful quietude. She took a seat on a snow-covered log, and Carwyn made a beeline through the woods. He needed the exercise and she needed a moment of quiet contemplation. 

As she inhaled, Eira could feel a gentle surge of life seep into her body and rush through her veins. Slowly, the fragments of her heart coalesced, forming a protective shield around a nascent flame flickering within her healing soul.

The rusty claws of past recollections gradually loosened their grip. Instead, a genuine feeling of positivity surged within her, casting aside the shadows that had lingered for too long. 

Carwyn returned sooner than expected. He snatched the bag and disappeared behind a tree. Moments later, he reemerged fully dressed.

"Did you catch anything?"

"Nope." He settled beside her.

"Why not?"

"I thought better of it." He smiled bashfully. "Didn't want to ruin our first date by returning in a bloody mess. I just went for a quick run."

Eira couldn't help but blush, giving his shoulder a playful push before pouring him a cup of steaming coffee. "You're quite the flirt."

"You think so?" He laughed as she nodded. "I wasn't popular with the girls though. I'm very awkward."

"Well, I think you're cute." He puffed his chest, and she giggled. "So," she spoke after a while. "We're mates, huh?"

He took a sip. "Yup, is it weird?"

"Kinda. It's strange feeling this attracted to someone you've just met."

Carwyn smirked. "So, you're attracted to me?"

Eira groaned, covering her face. "Why wouldn't I?" His ears turned red as he avoided her gaze and she sighed. "Ugh, so cute."

"Never thought I'd love being called cute, but here I am loving every minute of it."

Both chuckled, reveling in the lighthearted moment. The air between them carried a newfound ease, and the forest seemed to echo their laughter, enveloping them in the simplicity and warmth of the connection developing between them.

Their conversation flowed seamlessly, the two engrossed in discovering more about each other until it was interrupted by the arrival of fresh snowflakes carried by a chilling breeze.  This time, they walked side by side as they headed back. In a playful move, Carwyn discreetly slipped his fingers through hers, and his grin widened when she squeezed his hand. 

They strolled together, swinging their arms back and forth all the way to the cabin. 

Word count: 826.

Total word count: 4169.