“You should make the pairs, Daisy,” Xavier smiled gently.
“As you wish,” Daisy bowed her head slightly, a bit surprised at the leader’s kindness. Then, she turned to the expectant faces of her pack. For a moment, she let her eyes sweep softly over each member. They were her family. She was their family. No matter how much they teased each other or seemed so different from one another, they all had something in common: The pack is the only family they have left, no matter how distant they seem.
She took a deep breath, forcing herself to snap back to attention. She had to pair up the members of the pack for night hunting.
“Okay, let’s see here,” Daisy began, “We can have Neon and Theo, August and North, and me with Alex. Juniper and Scarlet will stay to watch over the camp,” She added proudly. So far she did good!
Xavier nodded, “Me and Willow will go hunting, too.”
Each member found their partner and set off, everyone going in a different direction.
Alex bounded over to Daisy, waving her tail happily, “So, you want to hunt where the bunnies have strayed? I bet we could find some juicy Galaxy Bunnies!”
Daisy licked her lips, “Alex, I can always count on you to make my mouth water. Sure, let's go ahead!” She was glad that Alex hadn’t shown any hint of jealousy ever since she became second-in-command.
As if reading her mind, Alex said, “I’m not jealous, you know.”
Daisy stopped in her tracks. Alex stopped too. “Are…Are you sure?” Daisy stammered.
“Of course not,” Alex tipped her head, “I’m happy for you, Daisy. You really deserve it.”
“I do?”
“Of course. I couldn’t imagine anyone better.”
“Willow?”
“That’s different,” Alex sighed, starting to walk towards the Galaxy Bunny hills.
Daisy fell into step beside her, silent. Did Alex really think that, or was she just trying to make her feel better?
Finally, Alex said, “Well, never mind that. You deserve it and that's all you need to know,” Her eyes glittered, “I’m hungry, so let’s move it!”
Daisy couldn’t resist a laugh. Count on Alex to make your day better.
Soon, a strong bunny scent drifted to her nose. Alex smelled it too, saying, “Mmmm…”
Again, Daisy laughed. She couldn’t resist laughing at her talkative friend.
“Should we split up?” Alex asked, scanning the area.
“No,” Daisy replied softly, a faint smile forming, “Friends stick together. Always.”