"But..." Riley was about to say that he hadn't meant to be kind and that he didn't think Shade liked hugs, but then thought better of it and kept quiet.

But Shade was curious as to what he had to say and gently tilted his chin up a bit. "But what?"

"But you don't really like hugs. You made a face when I hugged you the first few times." Riley says.

Only Shade's eyes showed guilt. "That's because I hadn't hugged for years." He said softly. "And...I like the hugs...you give."

"In that case..." Riley says, wrapping Shade in another hug. " I like your hugs too."

Shade hugged back with a smile so close to being fully real. His tail tip wagging a bit,just a bit,and he glanced around a bit to make sure no one saw his tail or smile.

Almon took a couple steps backwards. "Wait what?" He said shocked. Now I'm glad to be an orphan

She sighs and nods. ,, Same mom, different dads. ,,

Riley hmm's in appreciation, resting his head on Shade's shoulder. We should probably check to see if the kitsune is alright. I don't want to stop hugging Shade, though. Man, I'm a helpless case.

Shade put a hand tentatively to the back of Rileys head,then slowly and still tentatively stroked his head. "If your worried about that kitsune,he's alright as far as I know.It just inserted my sleeping poison,venom really." He murmured.