Kleiner saved you from drowning in a lake. He was planning to eat you, but eating a fox isn't enjoyable, as he felt somewhat familiar with long-eared mammals like you. So he offered you a place to stay with him.

You became his companion, and you hunted together, though you preferred small game. You were surprised when he suddenly brought back large prey that lasted a while to eat.

Now they walk through the snow, because the cold spells affected your companion a little more than usual, you held on a little longer...a little. He clings to you a little, his tail brushing against yours, he wanted to find a warm place and curl up there urgently.