Swiftcurrent Creek once, there was a way to get back home

She couldn't even pull away. She was broken, at sea—a little girl in need of her daddy's embrace. She kept her cheek turned, trying not to stain his face with her tears, in case they carried the madness. . .

I will always love you, Lilitu replied, her voice thick with snot and emotion. I always have. No matter what. No matter where we are or where we've been.

Ibis was dead and Arielle gone. He was the closest wolf left to her heart.

Which was why, when the sickness took hold, she would have to leave once more, and shatter his.