Chapter 81

"I pull Mila in for a hug the minute she walks into the cell. She stiffens in my hold, and I step away from her, frowning.

Perhaps she’s not happy to see me?

As though she read my mind, she said, “Oh, my lady, I’m so happy to see you, but please refrain from hugging me.”

My frown deepens. “Why? Is it because I’m dirty?”

“No, my lady. It’s just that you’re in a higher position than me, and servants don’t usually embrace their mistresses.”

“I don’t understand what you’re saying. Aren’t Icelanders superior to wolves?”

“You’re correct, my lady, but when that wolf has been placed in a position higher than an Icelander, she’s considered superior.”

“Superior or not, we’re friends, Mila, and friends hug all the time. I’m going to hug you now, and you’re going to hug me back. Is that clear?”

“My lady….”

“Is. That. Clear?”

She nods. We embrace for a moment, before she pulls away, wiping away a stray tear. “Oh, my lady, I