Swiftcurrent Creek Daddy always thought that he married beneath him

The twinge was well hidden—but a careful eye caught the twitch of a lip and the way she turned. Perhaps, had he no knowledge of Arric and Cygnet’s spar, he wouldn’t have caught on as quick—

He eased his stride as dusk continued to darken their world. As if the creek weren’t black enough from within…

A sideways glance given to the girl—he almost praised her for being so much like her mother, and caught himself just before. She probably had no recognition or knowledge of Moss—all she had ever known was Bellatrix and Arlette, he imagined.

Instead: “I heard you gave Arric a run for his money.” He paused, gaze shifting forward once more. “You’re going to be quite the warrior with more practice.”