Big Salmon Lake War paint

Summer had barely started, so Luke was in for a long wait. Peregrine held his tongue, deciding against cramming the caldera down his throat. It was clear his heart was set elsewhere and, despite his declaration about boredom, he wasn't going to give up easily. Peregrine sort of admired that trait. Maybe if Luke's plans didn't pan out and he came to the caldera in the end, it would get to be on the receiving end of such determined loyalty. He could only hope.

"I can't imagine being alone so long," Peregrine admitted. "On that note, I should head back soon." He was a little bit tempted to arrange another meeting sometime. But their chance for romance had passed and while the Alpha didn't begrudge Luke the title of friend, he had long ago ceased seeking the company of those who weren't part of his pack. "Take care, Luke." Anyway, they would probably run into one another again.

Exchanging a last glance the blue-nosed, silver-eyed, white-furred wolf, Peregrine turned and began to lope back toward the caldera. All the while, his gaze swept Great Bear Wilderness, as he hadn't forgotten his intentions out here. He would tolerate Luke (at least until he aligned himself with an enemy) but he would not be some welcoming of particular other wolves in his neck of the woods.