This reads as an old school Heinlein or Le Guin - it has that vibe, especially coupled with those pictures, which could be from a 70's sci fi cover.

He needed to imagine that he helped, she needed to imagine that she was in need of help. Just to do things together can be a wonderful gift, holding together in the flux of uncertainty.

What a superb couple of line that convey caring beings. And the tender relationship with the shepherd and the beasts, singing them to calm. This is an extraordinary beautiful piece and I'm sorry I didn't get time to say so when I reblogged it.