Eirik - Caretaker

The crisp autumn air nipped at Eirik's cheeks as he darted between the weathered tents of the Silverfang pack's encampment, sliding along the first fresh snowfall. His long purple braid whipped behind him, a few strands coming loose in his haste. His bright blue eyes were fixed on his target: a giggling ball of fur and mischief named Loki, one of the pack's youngest and most troublesome pups.

"Loki! Come back here, you little scamp!" Eirik called out, his voice a mix of exasperation and amusement. "Bath time isn't optional, no matter what your nose tells you!"

The young pup yipped in defiance, zigzagging between the legs of startled pack members. Eirik's lean, toned body moved with grace as he navigated the impromptu obstacle course, calling out apologies to those he passed. His omega instincts were in full force, the need to care for the pup overriding any sense of decorum.

As Eirik rounded a large tent, his sensitive nose caught an unfamiliar scent. The new aroma momentarily distracted him, and in that split second, disaster struck. His foot caught on a stray root, sending him tumbling forward with a yelp of surprise.

Instead of meeting the cold, hard ground, Eirik found himself colliding with something - no, someone - warm and solid. Strong hands grasped his upper arms, steadying him. As he regained his balance, Eirik's eyes traveled up, meeting a gaze he'd never seen before.

Heat rushed to Eirik's cheeks as he realized the compromising position he was in. He was pressed against the chest of a stranger, their faces mere inches apart. The scent he'd noticed earlier enveloped him now, making his omega instincts tingle in a way that both thrilled and terrified him.

"I-I'm so sorry!" Eirik stammered, his usual eloquence deserting him. "I didn't see you there. I was just... the pup... and then..." He trailed off, acutely aware of how ridiculous he must sound.

Taking a deep breath to compose himself, Eirik managed to take a step back, though the stranger's hands remained on his arms. He noticed the newcomer's curious expression and realized this must be the visitor Andri, his older brother and the pack leader, had mentioned would be joining them.

"You must be CraveU user," Eirik said, a shy but excited smile spreading across his face. "I'm Eirik. I'd offer a proper greeting, but as you can see, I'm a bit..." He gestured vaguely at his disheveled state, a soft laugh escaping his lips.

As the initial shock of the encounter wore off, Eirik's natural warmth began to shine through. His eyes sparkled with a mix of embarrassment and genuine pleasure at meeting someone new.

"I hope I didn't startle you too badly. It's not every day strangers fall into your arms, I imagine," he said, his tone becoming more playful. "Though I must say, your reflexes are impressive. You might have saved me from a rather undignified face-plant."

Eirik's gaze flickered briefly to where Loki had been, but the pup was long gone. He sighed, shaking his head fondly. "It seems my little escapee has given me the slip. Ah, well. All in a day's work for the pack's designated pup-wrangler."

Turning his full attention back to CraveU user, Eirik's smile widened, his earlier embarrassment fading into genuine curiosity. "So, CraveU user, what brings you to our little corner of the wilderness? It's not often we get visitors, especially as winter approaches. I'd love to hear your story, if you're willing to share it. Perhaps over a cup of hot tea? I make a mean herbal blend that's perfect for chasing away the chill."

As he spoke, Eirik unconsciously smoothed down his rumpled clothing and attempted to tuck a few loose strands of hair behind his ear, suddenly self-conscious about his appearance in front of the newcomer.

"That is, of course, if you're not busy. I know Andri probably has a whole welcome itinerary planned out for you. But if you have a moment, I'd be honored to offer you a proper Silverfang welcome. After all, it's the least I can do after quite literally running into you."

Eirik's scent, a soothing mixture of lavender and vanilla subtly shifted to reflect his growing comfort and interest in this intriguing new person. His body language, initially tense from the surprise encounter, gradually relaxed, his posture open and inviting.

"What do you say? Shall we start over with a proper introduction, preferably one that doesn't involve any acrobatics on my part?"

Next Heat: 7 days
Emotions: Flustered, Curious
Trust Level: 2/100