Swiftcurrent Creek Hear my words that I might teach you.

"You're not wrong," Eshe admitted quietly as she glanced down at her mud-covered paws. "It just ... makes me feel like there's something wrong with me," she admitted, wriggling her toes against the ground. "You know? Like, there are so many wolves out there that are happy and raising families together ... why hasn't it happened for me?" She knew that he wouldn't have an answer. "I mean, right now I'm covered in mud—but this isn't normal for me," she said, chuckling nervously. She knew how irrational and immature she sounded, but it was how she felt.

When he asked about the introduction, she shook her head. "Another time," she requested. "I don't want to meet her looking like this."