With Stardust agreeing to stay, if only for one night, Kirain beamed and nuzzled against the dark-furred dame.

That would be wonderful! You'll see how perfect this place is. I'm so excited!

She spun in a joyful little circle, her tail wagging like mad as she celebrated more time with her beloved friend.

At the mention of her mate, Kirain turned with a fond smile and gave a soft nod. We're just glad we're together again. We've been through so much... Her voice trailed off, thoughts flickering across memories too heavy for words.

But before silence could settle, Stardust suddenly began shouting at the sky.

It wasn’t the first time Kirain had seen her do this, but that didn’t stop the quiet giggle that bubbled up from her chest.

She’d grown to adore Stardust’s vibrant expressiveness. It was such a refreshing change to be around someone so open, so genuine.

Ah, marriage... she said with a soft smile, her tone tender. Yes, it means we’re mates now. It’s a word he uses from his culture.

She glanced away, her voice barely above a whisper, less from embarrassment, more from the overwhelming joy that still bloomed in her chest at the thought. She adored him, everything he was, everything he brought to her life, and she dearly hoped Stardust would come to see just how wonderful he truly was.

Hearing a word she didn’t recognize, Kirain perked up and turned her attention back to Stardust.

Imprint? she echoed curiously. What’s an imprint? Is that different from being mates?

Her tone was gentle, genuinely inquisitive as she leaned in, eager to understand the meaning behind her friend’s words.