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Stories posted in this category are works of fiction. Names, places, characters, events, and incidents are created by the authors' imaginations or are used fictitiously. Any resemblances to actual persons (living or dead), organizations, companies, events, or locales are entirely coincidental.
Note: While authors are asked to place warnings on their stories for some moderated content, everyone has different thresholds, and it is your responsibility as a reader to avoid stories or stop reading if something bothers you. 

Morningstar: The Malaise - 12. Chapter 12 Reprieve

It is what it is...

Morningstar: The Malaise

 

 

Chapter 12

 

 

The sun was certainly up, judging by the brightness bombarding his closed eyelids. So was the wind. The back-and-forth brushing of leaves against glass broke through that serene state of semi-consciousness, nudging Kellar to acknowledge the new day. The warm body in his arms, though, was encouragement to ignore what beckoned outside this cocoon he was sharing with the person he loved. The man who wasn’t his.

Dammit. Why did he let that gut-wrenching thought intrude on such a special time? There was no avoiding the answer. This physical closeness was only going to make their impending separation hurt even more. This guy did not belong to him, yet here he was in Kellar’s arms.

Although he didn’t believe Tobyn was in love with Tilly, the man made a decision a long time ago, and she, or a girl like her, was part of that commitment to Morningstar pack. Kellar’s brain told him they shouldn’t be doing this, but his heart never wanted to let go.

He opened his eyes to view the top of the head using his chest as a pillow. His friend was breathing deeply… contentedly. It felt and sounded so right, but only to Kellar. Tobyn would eventually wake and be embarrassed. Until then, he couldn’t resist planting a soft kiss on sand-colored hair possessing three shades of gold.

Forcing his thoughts from the beautiful man, he let them settle on the previous evening. They had done it. He was a healer who’d actually cured cancer. Holy crap. What an accomplishment to try and wrap his head around. It was a shame he couldn’t share it with the world, but the drain it had on his and Tobyn’s body meant it was something he couldn’t tackle often. He’d never been anywhere close to that out-of-it before, and Tobyn’s colors had dimmed alarmingly.

He also had no doubt he would have failed if not for being able to tap into another person's strength. He’d been dangerously depleted before he’d drawn and converted the energy from his friend. Could he channel like that with anyone? Or just with Tobyn? He was pretty sure he knew the answer, but as with everything else happening, he had nothing concrete to go on.

Maybe, in some small way, he’d played a part in halting the extinction of his species. Adelin now had the chance to help replenish their numbers. Only time would tell what overall impact this healing would have. He smiled inwardly at remembering how Tobyn had called it a miracle. It wasn’t, of course, but for sure it would give the pack hope.

Was there more he could do? Ideas were swirling in his head, but they were only ideas. He had noticed a few things when he was around other shifters, but whether they were significant or not, he had no clue.

As strong as the urge was to leave, to protect his heart, there was one thing he would have liked a definitive answer for. It may not make a difference in his life, but the more he thought of it, the more he wanted to know, for peace of mind if nothing else. Still, even though he didn't want to be dwelling on anything after he left Morningstar... and Tobyn, he didn't think he could handle sticking around. Maybe, sometime down the road, he'd be strong enough to come back and not feel devastated.

Tobyn’s cadence of breathing was changing, so he prepared for their double-edged connection to soon end. He planted one last kiss, feather light, and waited for the inevitable. It wasn’t long before his companion began to stir. Checking his colors, Kellar could see no sign of the tired and inflamed joints he had before they went to bed, and his strength was back to his new normal. In fact, it was closer again to his own robust level. The initial comatose-like nap at Adelin’s, and a good follow-up sleep had set them both to rights.

Closing his eyes, he feigned slumber, giving Tobyn an out from the awkwardness he’d feel at their physical closeness. Slight stretching brought a small groan from the man before more stretching… and then complete stillness. Kellar could imagine the look on Tobyn’s face as he absorbed their entanglement, but kept his eyes closed. The last thing he needed was to see the mortified expression his friend likely wore.

Sure enough, he detached himself and slowly pulled away, taking the throb of his erection with him. Kellar gave him another minute, and then began stretching himself, pretending to slowly waken. He opened his eyes to hazel ones, and ascertained from the look in them that the jig was up. Tobyn hadn’t bought his sleeping act.

“Good morning.”

“Good morning. Sorry I was all over you like that.”

Kellar was going to continue the attempted ruse, but what was the point. It had been proven over and over that Tobyn had the ability to read him in the same way he could read the blond man. “I’m not. It was nice. It helped me get some much-needed sleep.”

Tobyn ignored his attempt at light-heartedness. “I’m sending you mixed messages, aren’t I?” He was studying Kellar’s face with an unreadable expression, but Kellar sensed guilt.

“No… no you’re not. I have no illusions. We are friends, and that’s how it is. Friends can hold each other,” he said with a grin. “But, maybe they shouldn’t shower together.”

Tobyn didn’t laugh. He didn’t even smile. “We were going to talk last night?”

“We did. You said two words and proceeded to conk out,” Kellar teased. He was not going to let this get heavy.

“Sorry. I was so tired. I wanted to have a conversation, but….”

“You were tired because we cured a young girl of cancer, my friend. We need to be happy about that. Your pack didn’t lose another member.”

“I know. It’s unbelievable what you… my pack?” The room got almost eerily quiet… even the wind outside stilled. “You’re leaving, aren’t you? That’s what’s been wrong. You’re leaving because of me.”

Kellar groaned. “I don’t want to do this, man. Look, it’s not because of anything you did. Would you want to hang around if the situation was reversed? It’s new, and I admit I’m kind of raw, but I’ll get over it.” Flustered, he sat up. “You’re the best friend I’ve got, Tobyn. Really, the first one I’ve ever had in my life. I feel like I’ve known you for years, not days, and if I stick around here, I’ll screw that up. I need some time, is all. Okay?”

Tobyn said nothing. Finally, he nodded. Getting up, he walked naked toward the door, and Kellar’s eyes locked on rolling ass muscles. Without turning, he spoke. “I’ll use the shower in my room. You take the one in the main bath.”

A minute later he knocked softly on the door frame. Kellar’s head was still in his hands, but he glanced up at the sound. Tobyn had put on some boxers, but they did nothing to hide how appealing he was. “It’s pretty late, but maybe we can still get breakfast at the lodge, and talk about when you want to leave?”

“Sure.”

Tobyn turned to go, but didn’t get very far. He turned back around, looking sad. “Kellar?”

“Yeah.”

“I wish things were different.”

“I know that. I really do… and I understand. I’ve never been part of a pack, but I can see… feel what it means to you. You’re committed and you have your reasons. It is what it is.”

Tobyn sighed, nodded, and disappeared.

 

The walk had been uncomfortable with some extremely awkward small-talk before they gave up, falling into uneasy silence. Kellar hated what was happening between them, and dreaded the coming discussion. He needed to leave today. Entering the lodge, all conversation around them stopped. Kellar figured he probably looked like a deer in headlights as he stood in the large, open room. “Hey, everyone,” Tobyn called out to the six... no, seven people having lunch at one big table. The rest of the room was empty.

A big guy who looked to be in his thirties stood up. “Hey, Tobyn. That was a quick trip. Welcome back.” He walked towards them. “This must be the healer Adelin just told us about? Hi, I’m Hutch.” He held out his hand in greeting.

“Hey, Hutch. Kellar.” He shook the offered hand. “Good to meet you. You saw Adelin?” He wasn’t sure if he liked the idea of her being out of bed just yet, but then again, maybe some activity had been good for his recuperating patient. He would have to check on her later.

“Yeah, she was in here a few minutes ago, singing your praises. Tilly too. She told us what you did, and I’ve got to tell you, Kellar, that girl is special to all of us, and we all want to thank you. What you did… man, she looks so good… it gives us all hope things are turning around for us, you know?”

“That’s good… the hope, but, ah, no thanks are necessary. I’m a healer… it’s what I do.” Kellar wanted to run and hide from the faces staring at him. He knew they were expecting him to say more than his lame response, but his tongue felt like it was stuck to the roof of his mouth. Dammit.

“I’d say you’re more than just a healer. What you did was a miracle, plain and simple. Will you join us? Let us show you some Morningstar appreciation?”

Tobyn interrupted. “Hey, Hutch, not to be rude, but Kellar had a pretty tough night. You know what they say about the bigger they are, the harder they fall,” he said with a grin. “Sorry… we’re going to have to take a rain-check. We need to talk and do some planning, so we’re going to sit over by the window today.”

“Oh, sure. Thanks again, Kellar. We’re counting on you sticking around, so we’ll talk another time.”

“Yeah, some other time.” A furiously blushing Kellar looked at Tobyn, who, after a quick glance, turned and walked toward the far side of the room. The set of his shoulders gave away his tenseness. God, this was hard. Kellar managed to return the greetings from the others as he walked past the upbeat table.

Scanning the room after they sat down, it was obvious to Kellar the pack was affluent, or at least had been. Quality surrounded them, from the scattered rugs on the hardwood flooring to the furniture lining the walls, and some really superb paintings. He wasn’t keen to turn his attention to Tobyn, but he couldn’t avoid it. “Thanks for rescuing me. I’m not used to attention.”

“I know.” Tobyn stared out the window. “It’s going to be choppy out on the lake.”

“I’ve never been on a boat.”

“Really? We should take a boat out.” Tobyn hesitated. “Or not.”

“Tobyn….”

“There you two are. I missed you for dinner, but I found out the reason this morning. Adelin looks wonderful,” Elinor exclaimed as she breezed up to them. Kellar stood up and was immediately engulfed in a hug. “My son was so right about you. I’ve never seen an actual miracle before. Thank you. Morningstar is indebted to you.” She released him after kisses on both cheeks, and turned to her son. “You did great, Toby, going out and finding us such a powerful healer. This is the first positive thing to happen to our pack in a long, long time.”

It was his friend’s turn to get one of those motherly hugs, and Kellar watched with mixed feelings. They were all expecting him to stay. I wish they would stop thinking it was a miracle.

“Are you joining us for breakfast, Mother?”

“Oh, no dear. I had breakfast hours ago, but Marjorie is bringing me tea when she delivers your breakfasts. I asked her to cook up the full platter for our heroes. Sit, sit. So, what are your plans for the day?”

Kellar jumped in quickly. “We haven’t decided yet. Maybe your son will take me on a little tour after we eat.” He gave the blond man what he hoped was a subtle pleading look, and Tobyn raised an eyebrow. The last thing Kellar wanted was to engage in a conversation about leaving with both of them at the same time. It was going to be difficult enough as it was, and frankly, his instincts told him he'd be no match for Elinor.

“That sounds like a good idea. If your wolf is up for it, maybe you could take him for a run over to the gorge, or spend some time at the lake?”

“We’ll figure it out, Mom.” He sent Kellar the slightest of eye-rolls before changing the subject. “So, anything new around here?”

“You were only gone for two days,” she remarked with a grin. “Although, there is something that did happen. Digory has run out of patience. He wants to retire from the garage and work part-time in the livestock division, and you know what that means.”

“Closing the shop?”

“Unless we can produce a mechanic out of thin air, yes. I can’t blame Dig; he’s been holding on way longer than he wanted to, but he’s gone through two apprentices, and neither one can do the job. Losing the business income is bad enough, but even worse is that we’ll have to pay for all our vehicle and equipment maintenance now.”

Kellar interjected at this golden opportunity. “I know a mechanic.”

Elinor turned her attention to the big man. “Is he a shifter, dear, because we can only have our own kind work the businesses? It’s too dangerous to work so closely with humans. We can never take the risk of exposure.”

“I understand that, and yes, he is.”

“He is? Wonderful. Can you vouch for him? Or his pack?”

Kellar could see the confusion on Elinor’s face, and Tobyn was watching him speculatively. “I can’t actually vouch for him. He did a good job of fixing my truck, but he, ah… he didn’t seem to like me. I’m pretty sure he lives alone. I thought all of us did.”

“What do you… why did you think shifters were loners?”

“I’ve only met two, and they both lived in isolated areas by themselves. Neither of them liked me asking questions about our kind, that’s for sure.”

Elinor looked from him to her son. “Do you think this is a sign packs are disbanding? Maybe they’re all from the same pack. Why would there be lone wolves? It’s against our nature.”

Tobyn was still staring at Kellar. “There’s only one way to find out. Where does this mechanic live?”

“He has a garage about 45 miles north-east of my place, so about two and a half hours from here… maybe a little longer.”

Elinor looked shocked.” How could he be that close and we not know about him?”

“I don’t know, Elinor. He’s in an out-of-the-way place, but I know he’s only been there about a year… at least, I think he’s still there. He fixes everything from snowmobiles to four-wheelers to full-sized vehicles. I’m pretty sure he does boat motors too, because I remember seeing one in his shop. I have no idea whether he does farm equipment, though. If you think about it, Morningstar didn’t know about me either, and I’m not much farther away than him.”

“That’s true… the fact is we haven’t been looking for others until now. Maybe we should have been,” she said, almost to herself. “Well… what do you think, Tobyn? He sounds like exactly what we need.”

“Yeah, he does. Maybe we should go talk to him. Kellar, do you think you could take me to meet the guy?”

“Yeah, sure, but I don’t think that will work. He ran me off last time with a shotgun. Said I asked too many damn questions, and he had nothing to say. He insisted he just wanted to be left alone, and to get my truck fixed somewhere else next time. Elinor, maybe if you came with us, as one of the pack leaders, he’d be more inclined to talk.”

“Are you saying he’d be more likely to talk to a woman?” She gave a little snicker, and Kellar laughed.

“A pretty one, yeah.”

She chuckled again. “You know, I haven’t left this compound in ages. Let me see if I can clear my schedule. Maybe we could go make this man an offer tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?”

“Yes, if that’s okay with you?”

He nodded, with a quick glance at Tobyn. The man’s expression was unreadable, but Kellar sensed he was both pleased and worried.

“I don’t know about this. If he’s a wolf living alone, and he chased Kellar off with a gun, it might not be safe to approach him.”

“You mean for me to approach him. Tobyn Berenger, I do not need protection from the world. I think your friend is right. A little feminine persuasion might be in order. If he’s cute, I might even flirt a little.”

Kellar found her playfulness amusing, and while the mechanic may have been cantankerous, he hadn’t appeared to be crazy at the time. He foresaw no danger to Elinor.

Tobyn gave an over-the-top exasperated sigh, but he smiled at his mother. “Okay, road trip with my mom. This should be fun.” He surveyed Kellar for a few seconds before letting a grin escape. “You’re going to pay for this.”

Kellar shrugged, and gave him a smirk in return. This could end up providing him with some important information, and maybe even some insight into the overall plight of wolves, but it was too soon to know. There were a few things niggling at his brain. They needed to talk to this lone wolf in person. If nothing else came of it, he might at least know where other packs were located, and that would help Tobyn’s quest.

With perfect timing, two sweetly-gushing women brought them a breakfast feast. What was one more day spent with the beautiful, sandy-haired man? Kellar could handle it. He had to.

Much thanks to my editor, Timothy M., and to all those who read and support this story. Thank you.
Copyright © 2017 Headstall; All Rights Reserved.
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Stories posted in this category are works of fiction. Names, places, characters, events, and incidents are created by the authors' imaginations or are used fictitiously. Any resemblances to actual persons (living or dead), organizations, companies, events, or locales are entirely coincidental.
Note: While authors are asked to place warnings on their stories for some moderated content, everyone has different thresholds, and it is your responsibility as a reader to avoid stories or stop reading if something bothers you. 

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Tobyn is not one for thinking on his feet and dynamically reacting to change. While we can't question his loyalty, we can question his leadership skills.

He looked up and set his course, to save the pack, a long time ago. At that time, that included marrying someone he didn't really love, at a future date, to procreate and add pups for the community. Unfortunately, Tobyn has never looked up since to see if he needed to re-evaluate his course, due to a change in cicumstances.

It's difficult to be too critical of him, given his tender age and good intentions but there is always more than one way to skin a cat. With the Malaise and other illnesses proving the bigger threat to the community, it would seem that gaining the services of a very rare healer is far more important than focusing on any one fertile man or woman, himself and Tilly included.

If only Tobyn could realise how much more he would achieve with Kellar in the pack; something that Kellar already told Elinor he was willing to consider, when he first arrived. Without a doubt, Tobyn knows what it would take to attract Kellar's services. The fact that Tobyn would help both the pack and himself personally, makes this so doubly frustrating.

I suspect that it may become a question of just how long will it take for Tobyn to gain the wisdom he needs and how difficult must things become before he does?

Edited by Bard Simpson
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11 hours ago, Bard Simpson said:

Tobyn is not one for thinking on his feet and dynamically reacting to change. While we can't question his loyalty, we can question his leadership skills.

He looked up and set his course, to save the pack, a long time ago. At that time, that included marrying someone he didn't really love, at a future date, to procreate and add pups for the community. Unfortunately, Tobyn has never looked up since to see if he needed to re-evaluate his course, due to a change in cicumstances.

It's difficult to be too critical of him, given his tender age and good intentions but there is always more than one way to skin a cat. With the Malaise and other illnesses proving the bigger threat to the community, it would seem that gaining the services of a very rare healer is far more important than focusing on any one fertile man or woman, himself and Tilly included.

If only Tobyn could realise how much more he would achieve with Kellar in the pack; something that Kellar already told Elinor he was willing to consider, when he first arrived. Without a doubt, Tobyn knows what it would take to attract Kellar's services. The fact that Tobyn would help both the pack and himself personally, makes this so doubly frustrating.

I suspect that it may become a question of just how long will it take for Tobyn to gain the wisdom he needs and how difficult must things become before he does?

Hey, Bard... I'm glad you're considering Tobyn's youth and good intentions. I'll just add that this is only their third day together... and Tobyn has planned this excursion in search of other packs for years. He has a plan, with regards to what he feels he needs to do. Before Kellar came along it made sense, and as you point out, he should reconsider. My guess is he's at war with himself... he never saw himself as gay, he truly believes pups are part of the answer, and he made a commitment to Tilly, who he has known his whole life. I understand readers' frustration, and as I have said, Tobyn is a frustrating character to write, but he can't be pushed. I know people like that... one of my sons has always been that way. :)  I remember facing all the frustration back when I wrote these chapters... it makes me smile to see how committed to the story people were. :D  It's a long journey... hang in there, buddy... cheers... Gary.... :hug: 

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Keller, I feel you man. I just hope Tobyn will reconsider his decision, though I know it will not be easy for him, but the two of them are obviously pining for one another. 

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14 hours ago, Jasmine94 said:

Keller, I feel you man. I just hope Tobyn will reconsider his decision, though I know it will not be easy for him, but the two of them are obviously pining for one another. 

I feel for both men... they are young, and this has all come out of the blue for both of them. We have to remember these feelings are a first for both of them. Life has to happen... it will go on, and maybe things will become clearer. For now, the pack needs a mechanic, and Kellar knows one, so ROAD TRIP! I totally get the feelings this chapter caused. :yes:  Thanks for another great comment, Jasmine. :hug: 

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Another chance that things could work out for this two men. Fingers crossed!

Great Chapter❤️

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6 minutes ago, Albert1434 said:

Another chance that things could work out for this two men. Fingers crossed!

Great Chapter❤️

The wheels are turning. :)  I just want to say I love how honest these two men can be with each other. There is no subterfuge, and that's pretty awesome considering the situation and the fact they just met a couple of days ago. Thanks, Albert! :hug: 

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27 minutes ago, Story Reader said:

I am just going to go to the next chapter to see what happens. Great chapter though!

Thanks, Sherye. I think Kellar wanted to get away, but he's too nice to say no to anyone. He's the only one who knows where the shifter mechanic lives. Appreciate your dedication to the story, my friend. Cheers! :hug: 

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Man I just can't get enough of this well thought out story and that's why I want more lol. I hope these two can work something out and find happiness :yes: 

Thanks Gary for a very powerful story with lots of love:kiss::thankyou::worship::worship::worship:

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15 minutes ago, Albert1434 said:

Man I just can't get enough of this well thought out story and that's why I want more lol. I hope these two can work something out and find happiness :yes: 

Thanks Gary for a very powerful story with lots of love:kiss::thankyou::worship::worship::worship:

I really liked this chapter. Elinor is a great character, and we see a bit more that Tobyn carries too much weight on his shoulders and worries too much. I don't think he was ever able to just be a kid once he realized the peril his pack faced. :(  And yeah, thanks for saying this story... this chapter... was well thought out. I ate, slept, and breathed this story for a long, long time. :)  Cheers, buddy! :hug: 

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As much as Kellar wants to leave in order to escape these feelings, he's only  one single problem. He hasn't solved the mystery of the malaise other than determining it's not a disease.

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1 hour ago, drpaladin said:

As much as Kellar wants to leave in order to escape these feelings, he's only  one single problem. He hasn't solved the mystery of the malaise other than determining it's not a disease.

Exactly! Kellar's curious mind wins out, for more than you are aware of right now. As Kellar says, a healer is who he is. Just like Tobyn, he has his priorities. So, he will suffer in relative silence because the pack needs him. Sound familiar? :) 

One of the things I liked best about this chapter was just how honest each man was with each other in that morning conversation. They're aren't playing any games, and that was important to me. Also, please keep in mind, only two days have passed since they met. :yes:  Cheers... G. :hug: 

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On 11/8/2016 at 11:22 AM, Geron Kees said:

I find Morningstar reminiscent of groups from novels I've read in the past - most notably where aliens stranded on earth have their own small enclave hidden away, where only they live and no one knows who they are. In that respect they might seem like a cult or a religious sect - but it is simply a matter of expedience. To be discovered would mean forced disbandment, or even destruction.
So it seems kind of natural to me the way they treat Kellar. He is not of their group - their pack - but he is one of their people. It's like an ex-pat American in some foreign land, wandering into a little neighborhood where other ex-pat Americans have taken up residence. Once they know who he is, they will be all over him, welcoming, wanting news of home, and other Americans he has met in his travels. You've done well translating this mindset to this story.
The interesting tension between Kellar and Toby continues. I think this little side trip to talk to the mechanic is going to be important. Kellar already knows that Toby is his soulmate - Toby feels something, but has yet to pin it down and give it a name. But that the attraction is mutual seems apparent. There almost needs to be a third party to see the magic between these two, to help it be born - and who pays more attention than a mom?
Let me go see...

I like the expat analogy, since I am very familiar with that very scenario.  Yes, I agree that mom's like Elinor seem to be the first to know. They don't miss anything.

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On 1/21/2018 at 12:02 AM, Headstall said:

There is a story there, and yeah, if there is Book 2, it will be in there, or... :X    :P 

:X Again? You must be a major stockholder in the company.

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I think tomorrow's road trip is an excellent idea.  What a better scenario for Mom to analytically and lovingly observe the two, then smash their heads together (gently of course) to knock some sense into them both.  With all her intelligence and experience as a mother and pack leader, she might be able to shift their thinking outside of what they can't do to imagine what they can do together.  I do love moms.♥️

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8 hours ago, raven1 said:

I like the expat analogy, since I am very familiar with that very scenario.  Yes, I agree that mom's like Elinor seem to be the first to know. They don't miss anything.

It's an excellent analogy. It's not about pressure being put on Kellar... it's about a desperate pack needing him. And yes, mom's like Elinor see things. :yes: Elinor is a remarkable leader, and a remarkable mother, and as a character, she has so much depth I got to explore. :)  

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8 hours ago, raven1 said:

:X Again? You must be a major stockholder in the company.

I cannot divulge that information. -_-  :P  

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8 hours ago, raven1 said:

I think tomorrow's road trip is an excellent idea.  What a better scenario for Mom to analytically and lovingly observe the two, then smash their heads together (gently of course) to knock some sense into them both.  With all her intelligence and experience as a mother and pack leader, she might be able to shift their thinking outside of what they can't do to imagine what they can do together.  I do love moms.♥️

I love moms too, and I had a truly great and flawed and wonderful one. I miss her every single day. 

Lol. Will there be head smashing? :X 

One thing about Elinor... she observes, but it's not like her to interfere in Tobyn's life unless it has to do with his safety. In that way, she is like a lot of moms. Trust me, though, the road trip, when it gets here, will be interesting. ;) Cheers and thanks, buddy. So happy to take this ride with you! :hug: 

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On 12/5/2021 at 12:36 AM, Headstall said:

I love moms too, and I had a truly great and flawed and wonderful one. I miss her every single day. 

Lol. Will there be head smashing? :X 

One thing about Elinor... she observes, but it's not like her to interfere in Tobyn's life unless it has to do with his safety. In that way, she is like a lot of moms. Trust me, though, the road trip, when it gets here, will be interesting. ;) Cheers and thanks, buddy. So happy to take this ride with you! :hug: 

I loved this dialogue we had about moms when I first read this story.  I still feel the same.  I so love this story.  I want to binge read again, but don't want to miss all the great details and descriptions I miss during the first read.  

Quote

“I’ve only met two, and they both lived in isolated areas by themselves. Neither of them liked me asking questions about our kind, that’s for sure.”

Elinor looked from him to her son. “Do you think this is a sign packs are disbanding? Maybe they’re all from the same pack. Why would there be lone wolves? It’s against our nature.”

Tobyn was still staring at Kellar. “There’s only one way to find out. Where does this mechanic live?”

“He has a garage about 45 miles north-east of my place, so about two and a half hours from here… maybe a little longer.”

Elinor looked shocked.” How could he be that close and we not know about him?”

“I don’t know, Elinor. He’s in an out-of-the-way place, but I know he’s only been there about a year… at least, I think he’s still there. He fixes everything from snowmobiles to four-wheelers to full-sized vehicles. I’m pretty sure he does boat motors too, because I remember seeing one in his shop. I have no idea whether he does farm equipment, though. If you think about it, Morningstar didn’t know about me either, and I’m not much farther away than him.”

The observations made by Elinor in this chapter were something I just glossed over the first read.  It is funny how in retrospect they take on a different cast.

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3 hours ago, raven1 said:

I loved this dialogue we had about moms when I first read this story.  I still feel the same.  I so love this story.  I want to binge read again, but don't want to miss all the great details and descriptions I miss during the first read.  

The observations made by Elinor in this chapter were something I just glossed over the first read.  It is funny how in retrospect they take on a different cast.

The nice thing about a reread is there is no need to rush. When I first read a story I can be impatient to getto the end, but favored novels I have reread, I tend to take my time. :) 

I always enjoy conversations about moms. :yes: 

Elinor was fascinating to write. This strong woman who handled such great responsibility with ease and grace, but never hardened like we see in characters on TV and such. She is always a mom. 

Thanks for this, Terry... much appreciated. Cheers! :hug: 

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Well this is a wondrous story I am just loving this, things just come together as they should. I see the Earth Mothers hand in this! 

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1 hour ago, Albert1434 said:

Well this is a wondrous story I am just loving this, things just come together as they should. I see the Earth Mothers hand in this! 

Thanks, buddy. I've read a lot tonight, and my eyes need rest. I truly enjoy reading along with you again, my friend. :hug: 

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While looking forward to the trip, I had to laugh at my first comment on this chapter.  The trip will bring some big surprises, but not the way I first expected.  Instead of head bashing, it's going to be head butting.  However, if I remember correctly it won't be in the next chapter. :hug:

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6 hours ago, raven1 said:

While looking forward to the trip, I had to laugh at my first comment on this chapter.  The trip will bring some big surprises, but not the way I first expected.  Instead of head bashing, it's going to be head butting.  However, if I remember correctly it won't be in the next chapter. :hug:

Nope, it won't be the next chapter. :)  But, it will be a reprieve from Kellar's intention to go back to his cabin. I'm glad he took a moment to appreciate he cured a girl of cancer. I think to him, that is what is most important, not his own happiness. I admire his strength. Thanks, buddy. :hug:  

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