17

The wolf approached me with slow steps, looking at me intensely. I stared back at him, trying to control my erratic breathing. He stopped right in front of my face and let out a puff of air. I faltered, and more tears ran down my face. Vidário whimpered, and his wet nose touched mine. Then his tongue ran up my cheek and moved to the other side to do the same.

I noticed then that he was licking my tears—but I couldn't tell if he wanted to comfort me or if he was deciding whether he wanted to eat me. I hesitated again in disgust. I didn't want his saliva on my face.

Vidário whimpered again and recoiled a little. I felt something tugging at my shirt and looked down to see Vidário pulling it with his teeth.

"What?" I asked.

He continued pulling my shirt, moving me slightly forward. I looked at him, confused.

"What does he want?"

I wasn't sure if he could understand me, but he shook his head, gesturing with his snout towards the bed and barking.

"A bed?" I asked.

He gestured with hi