Stone Circle How far I'll go

She nodded her understanding of Valette's instructions. She hadn't realized Pema might be pregnant, let alone have given birth recently. She certainly wouldn't want to leave newborns to go trekking across the lands. But, Steph would gladly pick her brain, if she had the time for her. I'll definitely ask, she confirmed. 

She frowned when her mother brought up the question of being cursed. You're not cursed, she said adamantly, even though Valette had corrected herself. I know you don't want to raise children by yourself again, she said softly. But, you have the pack behind you, she reminded her mother. And you have me, she added. Steph couldn't be a father, but she was sure she could help out enough that her mother didn't bear the brunt of the upbringing all by herself. 

Steph was doing well at letting her depression go. She felt better every day, and was much more interested in what was going on with her packmates than ever before. Of course, she focused on her mother and siblings first and foremost, she wanted to get caught up with everyone.

There was something else on her agenda that she hadn't spoken with Valette about yet, but she figured now was a good a time as any. Actually, she began. I was wondering what you thought about me working my way up the ranks, she added. To be your Beta, she clarified. She didn't want the position given to her, but she did want it known that it was a goal of hers to help lead the pack.