Swiftcurrent Creek Now how can he smile

Mae caught the little pause — but if she felt any guilt for it, she didn't let it show. Yeah, sure, whatever, she grumbled. I'm Mae. Frostfur-Mayfair. Her surname was added after a moment's hesitation. And who the hell are you?

She was beginning to settle down in spite of herself. Her bristling fur slowly began to lie flat, and she took to grooming some of the tangled fur at her chest and shoulders every few seconds. After a bit she remembered the fish, and started to sniff around in search of it.