The sun hung lazily in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the peaceful clearing. The soft hum of rustling leaves filled the air as a gentle breeze rolled through, carrying the scent of fresh pine and wildflowers.

Flaky sat beneath a large oak tree, her quills swaying slightly as she watched the clouds drift by. She held a small book in her lap, though she hadn’t turned the page in a while—she was too caught up in the peacefulness of the afternoon.

Nearby, Flippy was setting up a picnic. He carefully laid out a checkered blanket, making sure every corner was smoothed out. It had taken a bit of convincing to get Flaky to come out for a picnic—she was always worried about something going wrong—but now that they were here, she seemed more relaxed.

“Flaky,” Flippy called, pulling a small container from the basket. “I made sandwiches. Do you want one?”

Flaky sat up, glancing over at him before giving a small nod. “Oh! Um… yes, please.”

She scooted over, taking the sandwich he handed her. As she unwrapped it, Flippy watched her carefully, making sure she was comfortable. He knew how easily she got anxious, so he wanted to make sure she felt safe.

The two ate in peaceful silence for a while, enjoying the soft sounds of nature around them. Birds chirped in the distance, the breeze carried the faint scent of honey from a nearby beehive, and the grass swayed in rhythm with the wind.

A soft gust of wind passed through, ruffling Flaky’s quills. She giggled slightly, brushing them down. Flippy chuckled as well, watching the way the wind seemed to play with her fur.

Then, without thinking, he reached out and gently tucked a stray quill behind her ear.

Flaky froze, eyes widening slightly at the unexpected gesture. Flippy realized what he had done and quickly pulled his hand back, rubbing the back of his neck. “Ah—sorry, I didn’t mean to—”

Flaky blinked, then let out a soft giggle. “It’s okay,” she said, smiling shyly.

As the sun continued to shine down on them, the two simply sat there happily.