A Wolf's Tale (Book #2) Shadows of the Past

Chapter 12

Misty watched as Rascal, Moon, Frost, and Alusia left to scout the border with Red Fang Pack. She rolled onto her back and stared up at the sky. Gray clouds moved in and hung over the Pack like a leaf caught on a spider's web.

The scratch on her muzzle was healing well. The pain from the moment was stronger than the hug from her mother.

Heather was glaring at Misty from the other side of camp. Her eyes, much similar to Misty's, were brightly colored with hate.

Misty could feel the burning stare, but wouldn't give her the satisfaction of returning it. Heather meant nothing to her, and never will.

Tyrant had just emerged from his den with a huge yawn. He dipped his head to Misty and padded over to talk with some of the older wolves.

"He doesn't love her, it's obvious!" A voice reached Misty's ears.

She rolled her eyes as she recognized Violet's voice. She and Velvet were whispering on the other side of the clearing. They were being loud on purpose.

Misty snorted and soaked up the sun. It tingled her fur and made her warm and happy. She ignored the conversation between her half-sisters. They simply weren't worth the time.

Blossom and her pups came and settled beside Misty. The healer sat with a thump as a kind smile parted her lips.

"I can't believe how fast they're growing." Misty gestured to the pups.

Blossom agreed. "I know. They won't be little forever. And I must treasure those moments." She looked at Misty. "A mother's heart is always full of love. No one else can understand it."

Misty took in the words, letting them sink into her bones. "Yeah." She whispered after a long pause.

"GRR!" Brave bundled into Misty's flank. He rammed his head repeatedly into her white fur. It obviously didn't hurt. Misty thought it was precious.

"Hello, small one." Her voice became soft. "Aren't you a strong warrior?"

Brave's mouth opened and his tongue lolled while he stared at Misty with his wide pup eyes.

Swift crouched down and waggled his haunches. He prepared a leap. "ROAR!" He launched on his brother and tugged his ear.

Blossom rolled her eyes and delicately plucked Swift off Brave, and set him down.

"Play nice." The mother wolf warned sternly with a gleam in her eye.

Swift tilted his head to one side and scampered off. Brave plopped by Misty and snuggled into her.

"Tired, are we?" Misty asked. She nudged the pup with her nose.

In response, Brave yawned and placed his head on his large paws.

Misty lulled him to sleep with strokes of her tongue. Before long, the sweet pup cooed and closed his eyes.

Blossom smiled. Misty could see the fierce love for Brave burning in her eyes. As if she'd die before letting anything harm him.

Misty knew she'd protect Rascal. But would she do the same for a pup? Especially if it was her own?

Brave snored softly. His little sides rose and fell quickly. Misty loved this little pup. How could she not? He's the sweetest thing ever.

A squeal of fear roused Misty and Blossom. The she-wolves exchanged a worried glance. Brave woke up and blinked his eyes. Blossom picked him up as she and Misty bounded toward the noise.

They stopped and stared in horror.

Seriously?!

Velvet was holding Swift by his tail. The small scrap was hanging helplessly upside down, flailing his small limbs.