Sunset Valley backbone

He thought he could recognise the voice, the same deep voice that had struck that note of apology, solemn yet warm, like a lump of lead shaped by hands.

I know you, he said in lieu of a greeting, a self-introduction.

But the hard edge of his voice (inspired by his frustration, which was largely with himself, anyway) quickly softened. He couldn't be angry with someone who clearly had such significant ties to the Rise.

You said 'sorry' to Redd, to the whole pack. That was you, right?

His hackles smooth themselves along the curve of his neck.

I'm Gavrel. Her mate.

It was the first time he had spoken it, as if into being. Just by pronouncing it -- in some sense it was an incantation that transcended time and language, it was a sentence that he never saw himself partaking in until he did. He stood up straighter.