Teva watched them from a distance near the garden entrance.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6jio2pu4Sy
Wolf and Coby looked so happy together. She wasn't sure how to get close. She'd had fun the last few times they'd met, and Wolf had never pushed her away. But it still felt like there was a wedge keeping them apart.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIumLImOHW0
Maybe it was the church. Her lack of freedom.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKfPjnC6zkX
She made a decision. She'd quit working at the church and find work somewhere else. Maybe the tavern. Wolf had to eat, so he'd go there eventually. And she wouldn't be seen in that drab grey robe anymore.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ37uUMH56CY
She thought she heard them saying something about being brothers. Then she watched Coby leave.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡITzOQQA3zy
Wolf looked around, still smiling. He was young—around her age. Dressed nicely but in simple clothes. Much better than her grey robe.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2U9DuZb9i2
Now that she really stopped to watch him, she noticed details she hadn't before. He had black hair and slightly pale skin, despite spending time in the sun. His friend Coby had much more tan skin in comparison.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2odz2fEVT3
She also liked Wolf's eyes. They were a rare green. She loved staring at them—they reminded her of grass plains. Of wandering free.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjsHJ4o5BsN
"It's not like you to just watch, niece. Why not go to your friend?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtab4i55XWH
Teva's tail puffed out. A chill ran down her spine.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHQlT2lm5Rf
The only person more sneaky than her was her aunt.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt8sPipmLYn
She said nothing, though she knew her aunt knew she'd been spooked.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Wip8aaSpz
"He's charming," her aunt continued. "I thought you wanted friends. Yet you're letting him go?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYCpcSXNXbv
Teva couldn't stay quiet under the constant badgering. "He already has friends."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmgsJOwy7DQ
She knew she sounded defiant. But she didn't care.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhmdZFLaw94
Her aunt placed a hand on her head, petting her gently. "He can't have more? Did he tell you that?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk0f5RX2fxO
Teva moved away from the touch, but still kept herself hidden. Even as she watched Wolf start to leave.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEyXsq0oZvJ
"No..."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgLPIEz0GNq
"Then follow him."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTtvZp5l2we
Teva scoffed at her aunt's words. "It's not that easy."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS5WPzffmVP
Her aunt giggled. "Since when did that ever stop you?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XYNf7VtMB
That did inspire her. Since when was she afraid to make friends?332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvhlcVVMQql
But still, she couldn't move. It wasn't making friends that scared her. It was losing them.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsuN4SNxwMR
Her aunt suddenly pushed her out into the hallway.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiUXWfDYZPi
Teva panicked. If Wolf wasn't already halfway gone, he would have seen her stumble out!332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmpqK5A3Ita
"If you do nothing," her aunt said calmly, "all you have is me and the grey robe."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzkGQFspT0t
THAT lit a fire in her. No, no, no!332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiOShv92ynz
She didn't look back. She didn't hesitate.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCZ9lQTS9Vg
She stalked her goal. She would win this battle and keep her friend.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUhwlSUVI12
She was off—chasing Wolf from the side passages and shadows, stalking him all the way to wherever he was going.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp1Vn8a5DdB
Her aunt laughed, watching her go.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpmd8WIKsBP
She was happy for her niece. Teva was growing up. So bold and brave in everything.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaHLKhjm1Lc
Until it came to something she actually wanted. Then she let it go for fear of losing it. She'd rather not have it at all than risk the pain of loss.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPBTModiX0
A childish view. But one her aunt adored all the same.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMG0E8Ywqw1
Wolf moved slowly but with purpose. Teva wasn't sure where he was going.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQw1jJhtw8w
She hated that she still had the grey robe on. It made her feel like a beggar. Like someone who could never leave the church, even though she'd left plenty of times before.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY9zsNjICww
The chase didn't last long. It ended at the general shop—the one Wolf had mentioned. Where he worked and his family owned.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl0mWWXrCLN
The robe had a hood she usually kept down. But now she raised it to sneak inside.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5a9Wp2vOsh
And was shocked at what she saw.
The shop wasn't busy. Teva crept in quietly, watching from behind shelves and listening where she could.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGv7Q2KmAjS
"Is it really needed?" Wolf was complaining to someone. "I already know how to cook from Mom. How to work at the shop. How to identify herbs and berries." His voice grew more frustrated. "Plus you made me go to church. And I know about magic and the gods now. What more do I need?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTF7EGzbqkW
A man's voice—his father, Teva assumed—replied with amusement. "Son, you need this knowledge. You know how to read a few signs and do very basic math. There's much more to life than that."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Wa8NTwSaX
He stopped speaking, smiling in a way that seemed to make Wolf worried.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC3AgPGh5VB
"Besides, the tutor I got is someone who's already a friend of the family."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn1P14MXWIh
Wolf still looked confused.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUfnVTcrMDQ
His father sighed, trying to make the hint clearer. "They've been helping with the shop. They've been here for a while." He paused meaningfully. "Come on, son..."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ07vFBy65Nd
Wolf thought about it. It had to be one of the foxkin. Nina was the first one who came to mind, but she was way too carefree. So that left...332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7hFn6Kw3lw
"Nebo?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOkDP3IJgZF
As if summoned by his name, Nebo emerged from the back room carrying a box. He saw Wolf standing near his father and nodded.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGTXoGtGYc2
"I take it you told him?" His expression remained impassive.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEVo82f8esw
Dad grinned. "Yeah. He's a little slow, but he'll learn."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Q75mPRrVR
"Hey!" Wolf wasn't happy about being openly mocked.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfbDnBMDZH7
His sister came out soon after, Nina trailing behind her. They'd heard the conversation.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvztcoYLGq9
"Relax, brother," Len said, smiling reassuringly. "The lessons tend to be easy."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVRH2NEZnUI
Nebo nodded. "I'm self-taught, but I can impart knowledge very well." He glanced at his sister. "Despite my sister's looks, I even taught her the basics. When she wasn't goofing off."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjG7TxFvKhg
Nina's ears went flat. "Hey!" She was surprised to be attacked just for being there.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡotGh9ByQ6S
Nebo ignored her, already focusing on a new task.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXcrlCCB1Df
Nina fumed for a moment, ears staying flat. But then something caught her attention. Her ears perked up, becoming alert.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUHqNJZgzs2
She'd spotted someone in a grey robe hiding nearby. The swaying of a white tail had caught her eye.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBOD18xtp4I
The person wasn't aware they'd been spotted—hood pulled over their head, listening intently from their hiding spot.
Teva was amazed. Wolf had such a large shop with so many random items. She remembered her mother talking about trade goods before, but she'd never paid much attention.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqyIQ2ovCoP
It was hard to see clearly with the hood up, but she was trying to remain low-profile. So she looked around slowly, tilting her head to peek at different things.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ5dtQMK7U4
She heard them talking about a tutor. And voices—voices she remembered from long ago. But as she tried to place them, a female voice spoke up nearby.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIHl4X1spnd
"Do you need help? Or are you okay?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3GyZJ3VWg6
The voice was gentle. Concerned.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbsrg1JX21Y
"You're a grey robe. Does the church need something specific?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxoxNMpEqa4
Teva panicked. She turned to face the voice.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ifKntaWxB
Her hood fell back.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsm1nHw2fQf
She saw a puzzled, concerned face watching her with gentle patience. A girl with kind eyes.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwdWyNIQjss
Then she heard a gasp in the distance. Made her look.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5RkqVm0S3s
She knew that person.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfXZO7c3d5p
Nina.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrlLPrVvL5c
Her old friend from the tribe.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡULPUv8pZdi
Why was she here? Working at Wolf's shop?332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv3v8aljonm
Teva felt overwhelmed. She'd come here to find her friend—not confront her past. She wasn't sure what to do or how to address this. It was too much, too fast.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGloqA8E6jX
The girl in front of her saw her panic and tried to ease her mind. "Would you like a drink? We have tea or fruit juices—"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFjmiJgQZL
"HEY, TEVA!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmksksAr8zP
Wolf ran up and hugged her.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyXUhOfrcGh
Teva was still too stunned to move. To react.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpNbZ6nmk9y
Both his sister and Nina spoke at the same time: "You know her?!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOG0ET3owGC
"Yeah! She's my friend from church." Wolf was surprised and happy to see her. And out of the church, no less!332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA9ngjlhM6D
Teva finally found her voice. It came out meekly. "Hey."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYrDbxBbZg1
Nina frowned, clearly conflicted about how to feel.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ59m8fhpM8d
Nebo didn't seem to care one way or the other.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ91nxOukloM
Wolf's dad smiled and nodded in greeting.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhZyMTQYnGl
And Len—Wolf's sister—was clearly happy her brother had made new friends. She welcomed Teva first.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUz8icqW0IH
"This is our family shop. If you're a friend of my brother, you're a friend to me." She smiled warmly. "Nice to meet you. I'm Len."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vnQkPD9XV
"Um... I'm Teva."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8afJWjzdzo
She felt lame introducing herself. Out of place.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJilFOJHmeW
But Wolf beside her just beamed with pride that she was there. It eased some of her anxiety.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnU9yhUenbS
Wolf slowly became confused as he glanced between Teva and the room. Her smile seemed to shift to a frown, and he was unsure what was wrong.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl1RKrI8uwd
He looked at where Teva was focused.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfI8wOHnE22
Nina was also frowning.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPc8fRqoxJy
"You know Nina?" he asked.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkYnZJ9CIix
"She's... an old friend." Teva's voice was careful. "We grew up together before I moved."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7JaBR9x8eq
She wasn't sure how to address the complicated feelings swirling inside her.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRL35xh1ELG
But Wolf surprised her by saying something completely unexpected.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPzL6Nuq3nM
"That's great! We should all hang out together!" His face lit up. "Maybe get something to eat! The tavern has really good food. Or maybe we could explore if Dad lets us."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXiIKUvRuET
He looked to his father expectantly.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡABzNmKjVli
Dad just shrugged. "We're not busy. And I don't see why not—it's why I hired more help. To give you all more freedom."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy38Eay0M1D
Nebo spoke up first. "Assuming I was included—I prefer to focus on his schooling or working here. I'm not one for casual socializing."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4XqO1u0lPD
He glanced at Teva, but his expression remained mostly indifferent. "But enjoy yourselves. She was my sister's friend, if I remember correctly."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMG53TQUX8w
He headed to the back without waiting for a response. Dad followed to handle something himself, clearly not too interested in their social affairs.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIGoPHD0x3X
Teva looked down at her drab grey robe, wishing she'd changed first. But she pushed the thought away. She had pride. She wouldn't be meek now.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd5ZHyaRNPQ
She was here to see Wolf. And she did want to stay friends with him.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKB2Epes79a
"I would like that," she said, smiling. Putting on an air of confidence she didn't actually feel. "It could be fun."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa08krBtcqE
Nina still looked sour.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwzo4aS9E1G
Teva knew it was from their unresolved past. But then why was Nina here? In this village? Was she looking for her? She was supposed to become an elder back at the tribe...332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡusMbHs8M4N
Len spoke up, breaking through her thoughts. "It's been a while since we just went out for fun." She smiled at her brother, then looked at Nina. "I'll go too. Brother and Nina?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJjulMdzRhb
Nina's ears went down. Then up. Then down again. She did a weird little twirl before finally saying, "Okay. Include me."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPPY5Hqbm5l
Teva wasn't sure how to take that reaction.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ73jGpbpAgB
But she did want to spend time with Wolf. So if that meant facing her past, so be it.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR1Bot7ola2
She didn't hate Nina. They were... well, they are... friends.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjiRpuX4r4r
At least, they had been once.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHW37ncAu8i
The conversation remained calm but pointed as they walked. Like one wrong word could shatter the fragile peace.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDnTjbp9Eai
But entering the tavern made things better.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlvK6xcNNPq
It was full of life. People everywhere—the noise and energy almost overwhelming. So different from the quiet, tense walk.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdEfljuBwwQ
They found a table easily enough despite the crowd.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPKZ2hlIS19
Wolf suddenly panicked. "Wait, I don't have any money—"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJCO2AGLTVi
Len laughed. "Don't worry, brother. This was always going to be my treat. A way to celebrate your new friend."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqMapMffSK
"Thanks, Len."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMHvyzurqRD
Teva felt happy to be included. To be looked at fondly by Wolf's sister. Though part of her still felt like an outsider trying to worm her way in.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8XDPJLUL1V
Nina spoke up, her voice smug. "I would've paid too. You just had to ask."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmzmd1eD0ib
Her expression looked haughty.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIyAZFcHLug
Teva couldn't help but laugh, which made Nina pout immediately.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKEozdNM9qu
"Oh, calm down," Teva said, still smiling. "We can't change our past. But we both found Wolf." She looked at him, then back at Nina. "Let me be happy about that."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5pliHOTyiy
She didn't entirely feel that way internally. But she knew if she wanted Wolf as a friend—or even her old friend back—they needed to move on.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmSlwoPUhHS
Nina sighed. "Whatever. It's not like I can't afford to treat you too."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtI3YOmiW4c
Teva laughed at that. "I plan on working here one day. Then I'll treat you. So there."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEsQX30R4jL
Wolf and Len exchanged glances. They weren't sure if this was friendly banter or the start of a fight.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsB7VW0ok4K
But they ordered drinks soon after, and the conversation remained calm. Almost friendly.
When the food came, it really did feel like old times to Teva. Just with new friends mixed in with the old.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjvZNiCAEA0
It was nice.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡInnbFIBPD3
But she couldn't help feeling it was only temporary. That scared her even now.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfOYUFGeAIv
Wolf saw her expression shift and asked, "The food not good?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfMgmg6XJoS
"No, it's fine." She smiled quickly. "It's good. And I'm having a wonderful time." She paused. "Just a little tired. Long day at the church and all."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡctRqzrHtvG
She was lying a little. But he didn't need to know that.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYaH2xJ6ypv
The day ended shortly after that.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvFlyn8I0fm
Teva didn't feel any closer to Nina, even though they'd tried awkwardly to work things out. She found it odd how easy it had been to break their friendship. But now it was so hard to mend it.
When they made it back to the shop, everyone started heading inside.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1hWS8jelPP
But Teva shook her head. Her ears went down, tail slightly aloof. "I'm going to head home." She smiled politely. "It was nice to meet you all. And thank you for the meal."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9l8ocGE6Sf
Nina and Len both wished her well and started going inside easily enough.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1owWJN4b93
But Wolf didn't move.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVP4uBQuaaB
"I'm going to walk her home," he announced. "Since she came here to see me, it's only fair I return the favor."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5wdSZIuYYB
Teva's heart skipped a beat. She waved her hands quickly. "No need! I won't get lost."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXiEmqriETY
Wolf laughed. "What kind of friend would I be if I just left you to walk alone?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHFIMs0Gbkz
Nina narrowed her eyes, watching them.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5PJdS6spu
Teva wasn't sure if Wolf meant anything special by that. But she accepted. "Okay."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJhUzwCNAI
She saw Nina looking conflicted as she headed back inside with Len.
As they walked, Wolf told her how his dad was making him have a tutor. He wouldn't have much free time anymore.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFFJ1hxTtMV
Teva chimed in that the church had already taught her those things.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7A8gxpq3Oz
"But even though I'll be busy," Wolf said, his voice sincere, "I'll make time to see you when I can."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlDHMBYduLg
That made Teva happy. Really happy.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKnIqT7F8TP
She told him to look for her at the tavern. She didn't have the job yet—but she promised she would get it. And when she did, she'd serve him herself.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIQhOEw0mMV
Wolf laughed, clearly looking forward to it.
The next day, Teva felt drained.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDT2hNj6dc8
It had been too much in too short a time. She'd gone from literally nothing happening for weeks at the church to so much in one day.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRRT21u3AAg
She needed a refresher.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU1Q5HfpyJP
Her mom made her a nice meal—berry jam bread and tea. Simple but comforting.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyJGTRG6WUa
Teva was happy to finally be throwing away the grey robes.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8aF9SAHq2j
Not only did they hide her figure, but they made her feel old and weird wearing them. What she did like was her loose-fitting leather outfit. It showed off her curves and let her tail move freely. She felt so much better out of that drab robe.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm6gBfk3F7O
She told her mom about her plans to get work at the tavern. Her mom already knew from past conversations, but today Teva was going to push for it. Actually make it happen.
The walk to the inn was easy and brisk. She arrived early, so it was still fairly calm inside.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU491CwpQOg
The keeper wasn't watching the door. He was polishing the bar, focused on his work.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsK3Uz0jZZt
But he stopped when she moved closer. Sniffed the air.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxeKjru1LFi
"You lost, kid?" His voice was gruff. "Or just need a drink?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtjr6nP25KI
Teva frowned. She wasn't a child, even if she was a little young. "Neither. I want to work."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaghaxLqEoj
He stopped what he was doing and set the rag down. Really looked at her for the first time.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdtKWt4qfUt
He was definitely a big bear. Bearkin through and through. He had a lot of body that took up space behind that bar. Teva wasn't sure how he even moved around back there.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW6dohfYVVo
"You don't look like much," he said bluntly. "Sure you won't fall over the moment someone walks near you?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe1swSF2olg
Teva didn't like the snark. But she figured it was probably part of the job. So she returned the bite.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXQCplerPd
"Maybe if it was you? Yeah, you'd probably run me over." She lifted her chin. "Anyone else? I can manage."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxb9EF1ZEWb
He looked surprised for a moment.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNhUZA584Di
Then he laughed. A big, booming laugh that filled the entire tavern.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMW8YqtCU7z
The few guests scattered around at this early hour looked up from their drinks, mildly startled. Then went back to what they were doing.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCEFwy9U2CU
"I like you, kid." He grinned, showing teeth. "Don't matter to me if you're small. There's always more work to do. And more hands tend to make things easier."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ19roxzVXAz
He leaned against the bar. "You can work whenever you want. Till you get bored and leave, I suppose."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3GSYdyVtBj
Teva blinked, surprised.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB26O5otnCj
"I already got my main staff," he continued. "But I like the option to give them time off when there's more help around. So you're owed nothing, but everybody lives better lives that way."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ695ZolbY0j
Teva was surprised it was that easy. She'd thought she'd have to fight harder. Prove herself more.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5AT7TvRImT
"That's it?" she asked. "Just show up and leave whenever?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHmZlBNnqsp
He laughed again, then scratched his broad chest. "Ah, youth. Everything's an adventure. A quest that must be won."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXA34M1NZVm
His expression became more serious. "Sorry, kid. No quests or heroes here. Just people looking for food and drinks."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxPyWCrw09
He gestured around the tavern. "You want to help? Great, done. You're helping. Get tired or find a new job?" He shrugged his massive shoulders. "Great. So long, and thanks for serving the dishes."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZxPchsTuT
Teva still wasn't entirely sure what to make of the offer.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUgmicaFevR
But this was what she wanted. And she knew she could do it.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWy72MBGZDA
She nodded. "When do I start?"
*****332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡObMQ4a8Qqr
It wasn't long before Wolf had his first tutoring session with Nebo.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡodI8JZrKbt
They sat in his room at his small desk. It made Wolf feel trapped in his own home.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtRQgA3pKt
"Hello, Wolf. It's been a while," Nebo said formally.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZe1Kx1pV2w
Not really, Wolf thought. I saw you at the shop yesterday. And at meals. But he didn't voice that.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW0G0bzKERT
"Hello. You're a teacher?" Wolf figured that was a better thing to say. "I thought you only did trades with Dad. This seems like a major job."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxgZw2NGemS
Nebo nodded, listening patiently. "I was trained at a young age to oversee many things and retain knowledge well. I'm confident I can teach you the fundamentals—enough so that you can pick up any advanced books and succeed on your own. In whatever you wish to pursue."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgEfzPz1vzN
Wolf frowned. "I can already read some words from Dad's ledgers. Why would I need to read more books about that?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcw6rANRRbC
Nebo paused briefly, then spoke carefully. "Books are a collection of knowledge and power. Much like magic."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF80rsOxQsd
"It's like magic?" Wolf perked up immediately. "So I can learn magic from books then!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkG331KyMd
Nebo frowned. He needed to word this better so as not to mislead Wolf.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdmifWFtkM
"Books, like magic, teach power," he said slowly. "But unlike magic—which is bound and finite—books can be shared endlessly. They spread knowledge and power without limit."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3qMvEiYroq
He paused. "Magic can do amazing things. But it's limited in what can be done by one person. Books have no such limit."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjaMwbD67UO
Wolf lost interest after that.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE06Gydfu5a
He was not happy with the way things were going.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7lKEltaKM
The lessons were boring.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnX7fc2E1pq
The only joy was when his sister visited with food. She even joined in sometimes and helped guide him through the harder parts. That helped a lot.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3j8NKFpTwk
Coby stopped by a few times. But the teaching was every day—unlike church lessons, which were only once a week. It frustrated Wolf that he never had time to play anymore.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJPLNwVGMZ
Coby said it was okay. He was focusing more on hunting while Wolf was busy anyway.
After a few frustrating months of basic math he mostly already knew, and endless repetition of words to learn spelling, Wolf finally moved on to more advanced reading.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMNiAipm5Ae
Nebo praised his commitment. Len agreed, saying Wolf learned fast. Faster than she had.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIxDGCpqcP0
Wolf didn't feel like it.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6y60JUo3mY
He'd wasted spring and most of summer with nothing to show for it.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk91mkoAvW5
But Nebo disagreed. He asked Wolf to name three things he truly desired.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ZbnaUcubE
Wolf wasn't sure if it was a trick question. But he figured he'd already dealt with months of this nonsense. What was one more test?332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3O8Bxp50t0
He thought for a moment. "I guess... magic. Alchemy. Herbs?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbp6N57x56X
The last one came out more as a question than a statement. But those were the main things he wanted.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcfFb3Rl0ne
"Okay," Nebo said, nodding. "As a parting gift—I'm heading to the city on your father's next shipment. I'll get you books on magic and herbs."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbKIwBaPjKl
He paused. "I can't get alchemy books. That's not something I think your father will approve of. But perhaps books on magical creatures instead?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyohYE1ULe9
Wolf was surprised. He hadn't known such books even existed.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpuzOqLFzWN
All this time, he'd misunderstood what reading was for. He'd thought it was just boring ledgers and plain signs.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZi419FB4wS
Now he understood why his dad had wanted him to learn.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ48pWlvlH1u
It really was a gift.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqDy2hOkoiF
"Make sure you visit the shop more when you can," Nebo said as he gathered his teaching materials. "I'll be doing more long-trip deliveries for your father. But my sister is always happy to see you there."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXs6lFE4fLc
"What does she do?" Wolf asked. He'd always known Nina was working at the shop, but she seemed to spend most of her time talking with Len.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvUMLHEYhaX
"Odd jobs, mostly. She gets bored easily." Nebo said the words casually, but Wolf noticed the annoyance in the slight turning of his ears. His tail twitched as he stared ahead.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5aDVPuMuM
Then Nebo spoke again, musing. "I'm surprised she never tried visiting you here during lessons. Maybe she was respecting me as a teacher. Giving me space to work."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQnCAzUyEVA
Len came from the kitchen at that moment, carrying snacks for them. She overheard and voiced her own perspective.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkXwlzKxSxY
"No, she almost fought me a few times to come here." Len set the tray down. "I stopped her. Told her my brother needed to learn, not play. I felt she was too much of a distraction."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4UqDWaXSRm
She shrugged. "She wasn't happy about it. But she accepted it."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfhNW32muG6
Nebo sighed at that. "Guess I praised her maturity too soon."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvZ6IVYJsRd
Wolf laughed, relieved and happy that all the boring lessons were finally in the past.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFwAm4FoxwZ
Wolf tried to visit Coby first thing after his lessons ended.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKruwil7y4W
But Mrs. Crow apologized—Coby was out hunting with his father.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTwzFVV4zdF
Wolf felt a little dejected. But not too upset. He thanked her for letting him know.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡizwdoK1NTm
As he walked away, he realized something. He hadn't seen Teva in a very long time.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDcl0qvna4V
Months, probably.
He tried the church first. But the priests said she hadn't been working there in a while. Though she did visit from time to time.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1FveUbaxki
Wolf wasn't entirely sure he remembered where she lived.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ8ukwxmub2
So he wandered the area, searching. Eventually he found her house—he remembered it had a small flower garden in front. He felt happy when he recognized it.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7DysM1IoX4
When he knocked, a slender catkin woman answered. She had a charming smile and tilted her head sideways before speaking.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ14JYEhY7Qf
"I remember you, child." Her voice was warm and teasing. "You're my daughter's friend, yes?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPFLdI8ASEg
She paused, studying him. "It's been a while. Where have you been?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDeZp0YC5P
Wolf bowed, ashamed he hadn't tried harder to see Teva. "Sorry. I've been busy with studies and... stuff." He looked up hesitantly. "Um... she's not mad, is she?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzrQpfvq6QQ
The mother laughed freely at that.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwggJcgzPff
Wolf got a better look at her now that he wasn't so flustered. She was just a bigger version of Teva, he thought. Well, older too. But still a pretty woman.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsK5E0rwUny
She was wearing a simple but well-made dress. She had long white hair, whereas he remembered Teva keeping hers very short. But beyond that, the resemblance was unmistakable.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROdmEY8hSd
"No, child," she said, still smiling. "She's been busy too. I see to that—even as she complained, wanting to look for you."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWOPQBCmjwA
Her smile remained, but her eyes held a mischievous look. "She won't be happy to hear she missed you." She laughed to herself. "I can't wait to tell her."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9I4EG9ml1J
Wolf felt bad knowing so much time had passed. He needed to at least try to find her.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJYXx60kCdn
"Um... is she busy? Or will she be back soon?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwFpPuQGNW
Teva's mother loved watching him squirm. She could see exactly why her daughter had become attached to him.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIwRbi4A0YF
"You're no fun," she pouted suddenly, which confused Wolf completely.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qNuRbAUtV
"Since you must find her and spoil the milk..." She sighed dramatically. "She started working at the inn. Randomly, whenever she feels like it."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVBko5vWEn3
She looked away as she said it, sounding only mildly invested. "I usually let her go once a week or so. Gets her out of the house."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡthtdgtFYjJ
But when she looked back at Wolf, her eyes shone with something predatory. A desire to pounce.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3LRdLevyss
Wolf felt like a mouse that cats toyed with.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8esC041Gv3
He wasn't sure the thought was wrong.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIeLYWS8wdG
"Do be kind to my daughter," she said, her voice shifting to something more serious. More maternal. "Fierce she may be, she still has a lady's heart."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzNY92aSRZj
Wolf wasn't entirely sure what that meant. He was always nice to everyone. But he bowed respectfully.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxV0xzYlWn6
"Thank you for telling me," he said. "I'll go find her now."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkl8Zs44lkT
He left quickly, feeling those predatory eyes watching him the entire way down the path.
Teva's mother watched him go, thinking to herself: Careful, daughter. You may have caught a fish that's more trouble than he's worth.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyriJxqvASK
But she shrugged to herself. That was part of growing up, she supposed.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxLxcnYdP8v
She went back inside, already planning how to tease Teva about missing her young friend.
The trip to the inn was brisk.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFbhwhLHVqn
Wolf was worried that even if Teva was there, she might be upset with him. But he'd cross that bridge when he came to it.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg8qVWmQRNW
He entered the tavern.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN6fcKzl35p
It seemed like he'd gotten lucky with a lull in business. The place was clean and quiet.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTGRphZGQwW
Too quiet.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAQ8xjuuBvn
Wolf started to worry something bad had happened. He didn't see the big bearkin anywhere. And there were no customers at all.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrLPuMEw2lX
What had seemed like good fortune now felt ominous.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5MJZMhE9OI
He was wondering where everyone was when he heard banging from the back. Then voices shouting.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWh1XC5hFla
"I told you to put that away!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DLSd26zPZ
"Whatever, you big oaf! You're not the only cook—I said I'd help move it!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAp4sC5nIRQ
"You're lucky you remind me of my kid, or I would've fired you day one!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡToJZ10pvuO
"Oh, please! You couldn't keep this place open if it wasn't for me. The people love me!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrjmdZ5j2kR
"You're barely even here working, little cat. Don't think you're that special."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfUJ20KDZ4R
"Um... hello?" Wolf tried calling toward the back, hoping everything was okay.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdmlxVNS9q
Silence.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFmAIZqFh9T
Then banging. Followed by shouting.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4IjClEFU8n
Teva burst from the back room with a surprised, happy face. "Wolf! Where have you been?!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYfhWlkhuv5
She ran around the bar and hugged him.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwfRnihVTst
Wolf was still trying to recover from the sudden hug when the bearkin appeared from the back.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTKXtKu1qGN
He looked annoyed, wiping his massive hands on a rag. He stared at Wolf for a moment, then spoke.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFgxjKAnxFf
"Hmmm. I remember you, kid." His voice was gruff. "Been a while. You grew a bit."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBjvSlBGcI4
"This is the Wolf I told you about!" Teva said excitedly, still holding onto him. "I kept hoping he'd stop by, and he finally did!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM8WtBTg1zP
The bearkin just nodded. "I remember. You wouldn't shut up about it."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr2tKberO8n
He looked at Wolf directly. "You here to eat, kid? Or just stare?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ786Nxv6txf
Wolf wasn't sure how to respond to that.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxgimorIbdm
But Teva did. "He's my friend, and I want to treat him. As a celebration!" She finally let go of Wolf. "To catch up. We're not busy anyway, and you gave the others time off. Let me have this."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxk6gIwDyBs
The bearkin crossed his arms. "Celebrate what? Meeting someone who lives here?" He snorted. "That's stupid."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlO0K94Dces
Teva's tail started swishing. Her ears went flat. "Just 'cause you miss your wife doesn't mean you get to be mean to Wolf!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyhSaYBSjx9
The bearkin looked uncomfortable. "Wish I hadn't told you that."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLl2bq5ZcTA
He sighed, then shrugged his massive shoulders. "Whatever. I like the kid too." His voice became more stern. "But this isn't a church where things are free. So remember—come back and pay next time."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ37Hjj8FiXr
Though his words sounded harsh, Wolf didn't feel any malice from them.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSfvG1j5o4b
The bearkin turned and headed back to the kitchen. Soon Wolf heard the sizzle of food being made.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUJSboyhpuX
Teva stared after the bearkin for a moment, then turned back to Wolf.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOwApBbuLFy
"He's a grump," she said affectionately. "But really nice. He always tells me how he misses his wife and kid in the city. He's trying to help them move here." She shrugged. "I think they're trying to save more money first or something. I dunno."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFQnVHHHcnx
Her attention snapped fully to Wolf. "How have you been?!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA09dUGjMCB
The words came so fast it took Wolf a minute to process them.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXoYTX9iL9Y
"Um... good," he managed. "I've been doing studies. That's what kept me busy." He looked down, embarrassed. "Sorry I never visited."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPjbLfdyMff
Teva waved her hand dismissively. "It's okay! I had to study too, so I was busy myself."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgHKFiCnEEa
She leaned forward. "Mom insisted I get more learning. So she found a friend from the past who knew Nebo and Nina. Was able to arrange to have Nebo train me." She smiled. "He's smart."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm2ZJskuwq9
"What?!" Wolf's eyes went wide. "He was teaching me too! We could've studied together!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXkvQyYgiwS
"Aw!" Teva pouted immediately. "I bet Mom knew that too. She probably did it to antagonize me—thinking Nebo would tell me he was also teaching you."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS83EVXTuLJ
She paused, thinking. "He never did. Just focused on the studies."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkFfXQPeccX
Then she smiled mischievously. "Bet it ruffled her tail knowing her plan failed."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXGNw1j2j6M
They caught up for a bit longer, talking about their respective tutoring experiences and what they'd learned.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRLGChxyupy
After a while, Icarus came back out and served them both a meal. Then he left them in peace.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvZMXYu01hM
But Wolf felt bad. He didn't remember the bearkin's name. And though he could secretly ask Teva, he felt he owed the man a direct response.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzU3dxybB9j
"Um... sorry," Wolf said, raising his voice slightly toward the kitchen. "I forgot your name, sir."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIPiNlFy1MW
The bearkin appeared in the doorway and laughed. "No worries, kid. I get called keeper, bearman, buddy, pal, and probably a few names I can't repeat." He grinned, showing teeth. "But rarely my actual name. It's Icarus, by the way."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROW1AXKMku
The grin made him look more vicious than friendly.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYHH6Vw2gvd
"You left out 'grumpy,'" Teva added, her tail swishing slowly as she smiled.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbbtGtecQa9
Icarus just frowned at her. He got them both drinks, then said he'd be cleaning in the back if they needed anything.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRMTd609mgZ
Wolf enjoyed the rest of the visit with Teva. The food was good, the conversation even better.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh4nXa6cwvR
When it was time to leave, he promised to visit more often. He meant it this time.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrOgiCWyL3Z
Teva smiled, clearly happy to hear it.
Wolf headed to the shop next. He wanted to see Nina and let her know she'd been missed too.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8GHMfCK0uo
Even if that wasn't entirely true, it felt like the right thing to do.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDNUGgan6N7
But when he arrived, he only found his dad behind the counter.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyWFAx1GI1Y
"Nina's out running an errand for me," Dad explained when Wolf asked.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ5EQuszN6R
Wolf felt a little disappointed. But also a little relieved, if he was being honest.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMPUypMo5qs
So, bored and with nothing else planned, he figured he'd gather some berries in the forest. A mini adventure. It had been so long since his last one.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWFmUqdsjPl
He grabbed the biggest basket his dad had and set off.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ovgTgaXuS
Finally free to explore again.
****332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcIMmovZldG
Nina returned to the shop a short time later.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCvRMUwxiFi
She was bored. And annoyed.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiQPLTovVqp
She'd wanted for a while now to get closer to Wolf. As family. She felt a kinship with his dad, mom, and even his sister. They always came to the shop.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4UBp3SE80E
But never Wolf.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYmWQs5cq5f
He felt like a potential little brother she'd always wanted. But he was never there. Much like her real brother, who was always gone on deliveries.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCNreY2AsMW
That hurt a bit.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlej3L9c0P2
"What's wrong? Did the delivery go bad?"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkn3XQJPxXF
Nina looked up, surprised to see Wolf's dad showing genuine concern.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7UoRTuAY9X
"No, nothing like that." She hesitated, then admitted: "Just missing... um... not being able to see Wolf. I wanted to see him for a while, but Len said it was best to stay away during his studies."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCm1fEdP3uc
Dad nodded, then looked away into the distance. "Then I hate to tell you this—he came to see you today."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWuES9r9Vni
"WHAT?!" Nina's ears shot up. "When? Why? How?!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6prkRPudUl
Dad laughed. "His studies are over. So he stopped by to visit you." He smiled gently. "I think Len told him she kept you away. He felt bad about it."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8oJrvOZtga
Nina wanted to run home right away and find Wolf there.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2K3537QBZu
But she was still working. Dad saw her mood shift and relented.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoJyAM07CKt
"He's not home—before you try to run off there." He watched her panic, knowing she'd been seen through. "He probably went to the lake. He loves going there to think."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCoascOyKOQ
He paused. "Though now he's trying to gather a bunch of berries. And before you ask—yes, we're slow. I don't mind you going."332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXBugMUzQjO
No sooner said than Nina was out the door.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmqgv6LF3Q4
"Okay-thanks-bye!"332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUO8uxdvADV
Dad wasn't entirely sure he'd heard her correctly, but he shook his head with a smile.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6P0uFP0wZX
His family was growing. And they were all looking out for each other.332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2DCGzFQlTP
Even if it meant chasing each other through the forest.
332Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHfwrP9d5Br
and then Add to home screen.