Northstar Vale I couldn't bring myself to hold you

He gave a brief nod. “Alright.”

His eyes softened at the gratitude in her voice.

But the unease didn’t fade. He hated this task. The whole situation unsettled him deeply. What kind of father willingly parted with his children? What kind of man let his woman walk away? Not that he had much ground to stand on—his own father had done much the same, if not worse.

At the very least, he knew it was wrong. His whole life was evident of that.

“I hope so too.”

He rose, placing a gentle lick on Chandra’s brow. “Good night, sweet girl. Be good for your mother.” As he pulled the fur up over her shoulders, tucking her in a little tighter, his gaze shifted to Viskani, full of a longing he wouldn’t dare act on. Instead, he dipped his head and offered a soft smile.

“Sleep well.”