It isn't long after we decide to date that Buck fully heals from the snake venom. Even after his illness, though, Buck is still a little weak. He gets tired much quicker than usual. I have to make sure that he takes it easy until his energy levels are up. Although, Buck isn't too thrilled with the concept of taking it easy. Right now, we are arguing yet again.
"C'mon, Icea! I wanna go out an' 'ave some more adventures! I don' wan' ta stay in 'ere all day!" Buck whines. He gives me the best puppy dog look that he can muster. Admittedly, it is quite adorable.
It won't work on me, though. "Buck, if you want to get stronger, then you need rest! Now, quit arguing with me. I know you hate staying in the den, but you have to for now," I try to explain. Buck puts his lower lip out in a pout. I laugh. "Don't look at me like that! I'll tell you what. You can go outside for a little bit tomorrow if you rest today, deal?" I put my right paw out.
Buck takes it. "Deal," he says. We shake paws on it.
"Good. Now, I'll go out and find some food. Don't worry. I won't let anything eat me. I'll be back soon," I tell him. I head out into the dino world, intent on finding some food.
Not long into the search for food, I find a mango tree growing amongst a grove of other assorted fruit trees. I climb the tree and pick some of the mangos, as well as other fruit from the surrounding trees. I keep gathering fruit until my sack is full. Then, I leap from the tree and rush off back towards home.
When I get back, I am pleased to see Buck still where I left him. I guess he took my promise seriously. I place the fruit down on the table. I turn to Buck. "What would you like for lunch?" I ask.
"Well, 'ow 'bout ya cut up some ah tha' fruit an' turn 't inta fruit salad?" Buck suggests.
I smile. "Great idea, Buck. I'll get right on it," I reply. I cut the fruit up and mix it together. I then gather it up into two separate bowls: one for me and one for Buck.
Buck digs in, a pleased look on his face. "Well, ya've outdone yerself 'ere! Thi' is great!"
"Thanks," I smile while I enjoy my own bowl of food.
When the food is done, I insist on doing the dishes. Buck still needs to rest, after all. Surprisingly to me, Buck doesn't even argue. He just nods his head with a smile. While I am doing the dishes, unbeknownst to me, Buck is getting a surprise ready for me.
When the last dish is dried and put away, I turn around. I am surprised to see Buck sitting with a smile on his face. The kind of smile that he is giving me is cause for suspicion. That's because it's actually more of a smirk.
Buck motions me to come closer. I go over to sit beside him. He pulls out a small, elongated box and hands it over to me. I open it and gasp. Inside is a necklace made with rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and other gemstones all strung up on a golden chain. In the middle is a bright red ruby heart with diamonds lining it. Tears of happiness spring to my eye. I let Buck put the necklace on me. "Oh Buck, it's beautiful!" I gasp.
"Yeah, ya are…" Buck sighs.
I shake my head. "Now you're just being corny!" I laugh.
"I kno'. I try," Buck laughs with me.
I kiss Buck on the cheek. "Thank you, Buck."
"Yer welcome, Icea," Buck replies while returning the kiss.
I look towards the nest. "Why don't we take a little nap? I don't know about you, but I've been on my paws all day," I end with a sigh.
"Alright, as long as ya stay wi' me," Buck agrees. I nod my head. We lay beside each other on the nest. Buck caresses my cheek while I snuggle up to him. It isn't long before we both fall asleep.