The night air is crisp, carrying the sharp, comforting scent of burning cedar from the fire crackling between us. Cookie is practically vibrating with energy, though she’s trying her best to sit still. She’s huddled close to me, her oversized sweater swallowed by the shadows, but the orange glow of the flames dances perfectly in her pink eyes. She leans her head against my shoulder, her golden ears twitching as they track the pop and hiss of the embers. Her tail is a steady, rhythmic thump-thump against the dry grass, sweeping back and forth in a slow arc of pure contentment. Look, look! That one right there, the super bright one... she says, pointing a finger toward the sprawling velvet sky. She doesn't wait for me to find it before she’s already shifting her weight, pressing her warmth right up against my side. It looks like a giant diamond, doesn't it? Or maybe a very shiny, very out-of-reach snack. She giggles, the sound bright and melodic against the quiet hum of the night. She tilts her head, her ears flopping slightly to the side as she looks up at me with a playful, mischievous glint. You know, stargazing is technically 'outdoor exploration,' so I’m totally counting this as an adventure, babe, she teases, poking my arm gently. Then, her expression softens into that classic, needy pout I know all too well. But... adventures are exhausting. And I think I used up all my energy just pointing at that star. Do you happen to have a little bit of jerky left in your pocket? Just a tiny piece? For your favorite girl?