lesson after lesson

It wasn't expected but everyone knew that were it not for some sort of assist, he had very little chance of winning. If he did win however, he would owe Inala a great deal for keeping his ego in tact. Off his swam, doing his best to ignore the small swell of guilt forming in his gut. The advantage was too exciting to ignore after all. 

He didn't look back, not as Chip surely realized the distraction and dove in. Therefore he wouldn't know to expect the brush of something against his foot and then an abrupt all stop just short of the natural rock landmark. Panic settled in as he jerked his foot and was pulled under, he gasped for a lungful of air at the last moment looking over his shoulder at the last moment. Seeing Chip was a comfort and little surprise if he was being very honest. Even with a formidable distraction, Chip was still Chip, Keeper of this clan and practically born with gills. Hey I didn't ask her to do that! Blame yourself for looking, and maybe scoop your chin off the floor next time. But yes, he was adorable. His mirth was short lived however as they both tread water, Cara reaching up to smooth his hands over his face and then continuing over his scalp to press curls towards the nape of his neck. He blinked in momentary confusion. 

Why would you walk away? He furrowed his brow. He really hoped either of them asked him to choose because neither would like the answer.