Swiftcurrent Creek nothing is as it has been

Things were tense around the creek lately, and Kavik knew he had played a big part in creating that tension. He was here as alpha in a pack that barely knew him, and instead of lying low and working his way into everyone's trust, he had accidentally impregnated a packmate who had come to him for protection. And Liri. He had done unspeakable wrong to her by being with someone else, and he would give anything to take it all back. To say he was riddled with guilt and self-loathing was an understatement. 

He had taken to running a patrol this morning--the only familiar thing he really had left. It wasn't his plateau patrol route, but the physical act of it had always been a form of comfort for the alpha. A familiar sound broke through his thoughts, and he slowed to turn and head in her direction. They hadn't spoken much since arriving here, and he had to admit that hadn't exactly sought her out recently. There was just no way she didn't know what he had done, and he couldn't bear to see the disappointment he knew would be in her eyes. But he wouldn't avoid her now, especially when it seemed she wanted a word.

He dipped his head as he intercepted the silver wolf. Ruenna, he greeted. How are you? he asked. He hoped she hadn't had too hard of time here, and he suddenly felt even more guilty for not checking on her more. He would just add it to the list.