Was the trip just for him and Ophelia? He’d invited the female second along, though she’d declined in favor of working to ready the pack for the coming spring. They’d already traveled to Secret Woodlands and back together; honestly, he wasn’t sure if his daughter would be joining him for the second half of his sabbatical. And if not? It might be nice to have someone to talk to, someone who’d been removed from all the drama. A clear mind, he hoped.

The large male rumbled, pressing back into the friendly contact. Yes, this was a very nice change of pace. And Cinder was correct – unlikely they’d simply take her at her word if she did not at least smell of him to some degree.

Veho pressed his weight back into the younger wolf’s side, the rumble bubbling up from his chest as he allowed the scent of cedar and fresh air to mingle with whatever the loner caught with her. “You are welcome to join me if you are so inclined. Otherwise, you are welcome to return to Grizzly Hollow territory and make yourself at home; anyone who gives you trouble will have to answer to me.” He offered a small show of teeth. Leading only through kindness was a theory tried and tested – and failed. It was time for a new reign.