The Thirteenth Moon novel · Chapter 6 of 24

Chapter 6: The Old Alpha

Orrin Rawlings knocked twice on Edda's door, softly, and waited to be let in.

He had never once in his life needed a door opened for him, and he knew how to wait anyway.

Edda opened it in her nightgown with her braid over one shoulder.

"Orrin."

"Edda. Forgive the hour." He took off his gloves one finger at a time. "I came to see Brynn."

Torin was on his feet by the stove with his shoulders squared.

"Sit down, son," Orrin said pleasantly. "I haven't come to quarrel with the Council's ruling. I'd like ten minutes with the young lady, outside, where it's cold and quiet."

"No," Torin said.

"It's all right," I said, and reached for my coat. "Stay where I can see you through the window."

Orrin held the door for me.

The porch boards were white with frost, and the moon had gone down behind the ridge.

He leaned on the rail beside me and looked out at the creek.

"My son has behaved badly," he said.

"Yes."

"Worse than badly. He's been a fool, and I've told him so." He smiled. "A man in love is a clumsy creature, my dear. I hope you'll forgive me for saying so."

I said nothing.

"I know what you've been through in these thirteen moons," Orrin said. "I know what that vine cost you. I held the blade, if you remember."

I remembered every second of it.

"I'd like to repair what I can," he said. "There's a house in Harlan Falls, in town, with a garden, in your name, no strings. A salary from the pack's trust, for life. And the title of Luna of the south den, which is an honor the Council has not given in forty years."

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