Where Foxes Hunt with Wolves (Folk Lore 2)

The alpha studied them for several moments, his back curving as he relaxed his shoulders. The distant bonfire added color to his features but couldn’t chase away the shadow of mourning. “I loved all my sons. But Burian was jealous. And vengeful. He’d already challenged my authority before. I can’t hate you for doing what you had to.”

Radek followed Yev’s example and stayed silent, knowing that being privy to this conversation in the first place meant he’d been accepted as Yev’s life partner in more ways than just with words.

The alpha continued, “I kept thinking Olek’s ideas are modern gibberish, but I gave him a chance recently, and the solar panels he installed might really make a difference to us in the long run. Maybe I should listen to him more, even if he’s different than most werewolves,” he said, briefly swiping his gaze over Yev, as if he wanted to say Olek wasn’t the only one who fit that description.

“Yevhen… I know a lot has changed for you recently, but now that you’re once again a member of our pack, I would like you to work with us. And if you stay here, you will continue being our man on this side of the border. But you can visit whenever you wish.”

Yev’s relief was palpable in the way his bruising grip loosened around Radek’s arm. “Yes. I’d like that. The extra income… It couldn’t hurt, right?” he asked, glancing Radek’s way.

Radek shook his head. “Oh, we could so use additional revenue. We’ve got lots of fox cubs now.”

Yev’s father nodded and had a big swig from his cup before walking off with a spring to his step, as if he were happier than his expression suggested. Yev kept looking after him, and didn't notice when a drizzle of fat rolled out of his sandwich and down his wrist.

Radek leaned in and licked it off with a big grin.

Their life together was only beginning.

THE END