The Heartwood else shall eden have no springtime

Lasher seemed receptive to his presence, so Peregrine moved a bit closer and even stretched out his neck to brush the other male's shoulder with his nose. He didn't answer Peregrine's question directly—no matter, it was more a pleasantry than anything—but expressed delight at their reunion. The swarthy Alpha smiled to show that he felt the same way.

"I'm doing really well," he answered. "How about you? I heard the news." He paused, seeking Lasher's gaze. There was a warmth that passed between them and Peregrine's heart, too, skipped a beat. But this love felt familial and lacked any sexual heat on his end. He was grateful. "Congratulations to you and Willow. Tell me about them," he implored softly, seating himself.