Ankyra Sound A friend said he knew where some easy money was

Rosalyn's admission was followed by a wry chuckle. Raleska's features briefly brightened as she shared a quick grin in response. It didn't radiate the room or anything, but it was a quiet gesture between two friends -- or, a mentor and her "mentee". Raleska felt encouraged enough, despite the darkness that only just lingered behind Rosalyn's words. She was too young to understand that adults did not have their shit together, despite what it seemed -- and that wrestling with burning doubt and fleeting bouts of joy was just another cornerstone of being an adult.

Raleska's gaze lifted as Rosalyn mentioned once you had them, they were yours for keeps. That was a sentiment her entire family felt.. but she had been a much-anticipated child. "You'll be a good mom." Raleska couldn't help but blurt, smiling hopefully at her mentor. "Cause you'll love them, and you're worth a lot as a wolf."