Lost Creek Hollow a brief history of time

It didn't occur to him that what he had asked might be taken badly if Mona was a different sort, or might be seen as bizarre. He did know he would not be their real father (did he know, however, what made that difference?). He also knew, though, that he wanted to make them happy. They needed someone and he was elated she was giving him the chance to be that someone.

Good, he answered, his lips turning up into an easy grin. He worried when she seemed to cry before. I do to. If he was their father, it meant he had a role, even more than what he meant to the pack currently. Someone would depend on him. The thought gave him a pleasant warmth, and it filled him, causing his smile to deepen even more.