It was so strange, the exposure. How they would laugh if they saw him like this, waddling at her side, their childish jeering folding his ears in shame. But without anyone to tease him...this silence was unsettling. Here, at least, he was safe from their judgment, their heartless quips; in their place, her encouraging words, her soft touch, much as it brought warmth to his cheeks. He followed her like that, hand-in-hand, coy and content -- not because he knew nothing else, but because he wanted nothing else.

My very first commissioned work, believe it or not; every other picture in my arsenal has either been a gift or commissioned by non-standard means. It was also a big step for me, because my shyness isn't actually just part of the character.

My first ever convention, Anthrocon, was so overwhelming that it's a wonder I summed up the courage to buy anything before I left. (Extra points if you saw my panic attack in progress the first day I was there in the Dealer's Den.) I'm glad I did, though, and this little baby (hah!) is proof positive. I'll be wearing this with pride at whichever con I attend next.

This absolutely wonderful badge is ©  MarciMcAdam (as if anyone doesn't know her by now).
Character ©  Cen_Aeonis
With a special cameo! Can you guess who?