Baird’s attentions were… divided… to say the least. His mother was aging. Where she seemed at peace, he was not. The man fretted and flustered about his mother to an almost endless degree. Only he refused to do it in her presence. Instead, whenever his anxiety about her, or his anxiety about her lack of anxiety became too much he would announce he needed to go on another round and pace the packland. There was nothing he could do for his mother, or really anyone for that matter. Picking off bits of prey here and there could only do so much to ease his panic. So… he dived into his… other attention.

A ray of light. A beautiful woman among beautiful women had caught his eye in the glimmering of the sun. He enjoyed his time with her, a welcome distraction from his mother’s conditions. He was surprised when the pass-time came back and informed him with some surprising news. Aurelia informed him she was pregnant, but there were others. Baird blinked his blazing eyes to swallow this news. The two had never mentioned being exclusive, and that was not something he thought he would have wanted with her. A very dear friend, yes. But he did not think love was what kept him around her. Stuttering and spluttering, he of course promised to care for her, and any children she had, of course. He would never turn his back on his friend. There was no question that he would help with the children, whether or not he...helped...with the children.

In the distance he heard his name called in the lowlands. Another rushed apology and he had to race away. Baird would never deny or ignore a call from his family. Especially not his mother. Paws beat against the earth as he raced towards her. As her calls grew more urgent, his stride grew in length and speed. When at last he found her, he panicked when he saw her flop onto a rock. Mother! The last strides were rushed and tripping. He almost fell onto her. Instead, he slid to a halt. Rushing up to her, he ran his nose over her to make sure she was still breathing and poked her with his paws. Realizing she was fine, he sighed. Mother… voice calming, he smiled charmingly at her, corners of his lips quirking. I have news for you. I might be a father. He hoped the news would bring warmth and life to her old bones. Moreso even than the sun itself.