He sensed she had left the den but took advantage of the space to do the morning stretch while still covered from the wind. The colder days caused the stiff body to remind him of how much the two have gone through. 

With that thought he peered out the den from inside, seeing Crystal seated and looking around. Now that he felt more awake he was ready to leave the den. He didn't want to leave and show any weakness of a limp from stiffness working its self out. 

He walked up to her, his large paws causing heavy thuds on the ground as he approached. 

"You never stop looking out for the pack." He admired of her as he sat down by her side. The cold breeze pushing his long fur in any direction. The warm sun made up for the colder morning breeze.