Moonspear almost heaven

The tension left his shoulders like a balloon out of air, and it showed. It wasn't what he wanted, truly—he'd desperately wanted for his children's parents to be mates—but this was the best possible outcome otherwise. 

Killdeer had loved Sialuk. As a woman, and as the mother of his children. But it was clear that what he'd wanted would never come to pass, and now that he had given himself time and space to accept it. . .

He breathed deeply, smiling with great relief, and moved forward to touch his nose to her shoulder, if she'd allow.

Friends it is, he agreed. He stepped back, feeling as if a thousand pounds had been lifted.

That over with—

How are you otherwise, Sialuk? Killdeer asked. We missed you at the great hunt.