Swiftcurrent Creek trio of dreams

arlette was so kind that lestan's eyes threatened to water; he ducked his head away, clearing a strained throat. "it s-started the e-end of l-last sp-spring. wh-when i c-came back to the t-teekons, it was even w-worse."
her support of his tracking aims was pleasant as well, and sent his mind skimming happily into the various trails throughout the rising sun valley.
eagerly he followed; then he tried to hide his eagerness; but it stood in his eyes and the quick way he moved fidgeting at arlette's side. "d-do you th-think i h-have a ch-chance to — s-sing? one d-day?"