Chapter 734

• She quickly processed the information she'd received and reached a hand out tentatively to touch the girl's shoulder. "Your mother was human when you were younger, sweetheart. This time it is different because she is a wolf as well as human, and it is the wolf part of her that is grieving the loss of her mate. I am sure you understand what that means for a wolf, how primal that instinct is, how it can overcome everything. It isn't that your mother doesn't love you or want to stay here with you, honey. It is her wolf that is in control now and it is to the wolf that we must speak and connect with. She needs a wolf pup, and there is only one here that I know of."
• Her words appeared to penetrate the girl's misery, understanding registering in the depth of her eyes. "Pippa is only about five and she's already lost her parents today. It would be cruel to submit her to any further anguish and death. Mama wouldn't want her to be put through a further ordeal; she would rather die than see a child be hurt."
• "Pippa is a wolf, honey, and adaptable and strong," Dara countered, knowing that despite living in a pack her entire life, the human girl would still presume human feelings to the situation. "No, it won't be pleasant for her to witness the aftermath of this attack, but her wolf will automatically seek to comfort your mother, and with luck, your mother's wolf will seek to do the same. They could help each other, and save each other, but I need you to talk to the child, as I will likely be seen as a threat to her. It's your mother's only chance. We have to give her this chance, sweetheart, as the alternative is untenable."