Swiftcurrent Creek Nile

As the rabble from the peanut gallery beside her died down, a specter materialized, just as achingly familiar as the shadow. And now that they stood side-by-side… their features were remarkably… similar…

The flitting of her eyes between them could be misconstrued as a loner concerned about being outnumbered, but we all know that’s not what was on her mind.

Moonlight and Shadow.

She nearly missed the young bandit’s words in all her unbidden reminiscing.

Sorry, kid. I’m not the marrying type. Wasn’t once enough?

The mention of eight young mouths to feed was not a huge surprise to River, who smiled ruefully. I see. Seemed the pair of them had gotten quite busy, both here and afield. Her eyes tried to determine which one the boy belonged to.

But none of that mattered. Her own children were growing more independent by the day. A pack large enough to feed eight non-contributors meant just as many pairs of eyes looking out for her children. Yet, despite the benefits, River was not near desperate enough to insist or beg. Even if she was raising their children, too. I just need a place they can get acquainted with other wolves. Maybe a place to leave them where I know they’ll be safe while I hunt. I’m not looking to be taken care of.

She swallowed the feelings of an impending rejection. If you have a recommendation for where else I might socialize them, I’ll take it. Gratefully.