Swiftcurrent Creek if you spent your whole life working

“The creek is your home if you want it to be,” he offered, enjoying the attention she paid him now. Still, no Lestan, and he wondered vaguely if he should call again.

Jakoul seemed content for now, in his arms. He could protect her from any curious lone male wolves that came upon her scent—and when Lestan came, he would ask the gentle Mayfair to do just that. Not that he was confident the brown bard could fight.

He dipped his muzzle down, preening at her, grazing his nose to the soft fur of her nape.