Chapter 44

The women danced for the men and the men danced for the women. Joel sat and watched all the performances. His interest in the goings on were obviously important. The wolves seemed pleased when he complimented them.

When the meat was done it was delivered to Joel first. He took a large chunk of the proffered item and we ate heartily. The rest of the pack followed his lead and ate with the same gusto. I felt thirsty and wondered where I could get a drink.

"We usually just drink out of the lake," Joel whispered to me.

"That's fine," I told him, starting to rise. He stopped me with a hand on my arm.

"I wasn't sure your human immune system would handle that well. Nate is bringing you water from the den," he said pulling me back down.

I was embarrassed. I felt like the kid that needed all the special attention in school. It was like if he handled me too roughly I'd just break.

"Not at all," he laugh