[The two tip over into the snow, Lup's delighted laughter echoing out around them once the human's arms settle around her neck, his body heat suddenly enveloping her slighter frame fully.]

Someone's gotta keep you on your toes, Bluejeans. [And it's a good thing that Barry's settling there beneath her because Lup's full body hug doesn't ease up in the slightest, her tail coiling affectionately around his legs. She leans in close to press her forehead against his, eyes closed as she falls silent for just a single moment, like the emotions of this anticipated reunion are overwhelming her. One of her palms, cold and smooth, presses over his cheek.]

I missed you. [Each year apart felt longer and longer. Here they are reunited and Lup's already feeling a familiar sense of dread at the next year apart.] Missed your stupid face so much.

[Yet even that touch of worry isn't going to dampen the time that they do get together. The hand not touching his face slides downwards to give a teasing poke at Barry's belly, the woman catching his gaze playfully.] You're squishier around the middle. I like it.