Horizon’s voice was like music to Zoya, reaching deep inside of the troubled girl. Zoya’s heart that had ached for vengeance and belonging found itself soothed by the mere voice of a strange man. “I don’t have a home, no. I’ve been packless for my entire life, though I was born in Starfall.” She smiled softly at Horizon. “I know the realm, though. I could give you advice on each pack. If you wanted me to.” Zoya’s head ducked shyly. She wasn’t used to meeting strange men. And here, it would be rare to find an individual who wouldn’t judge Zoya or hold a grudge against her for mistakes her mother had made long ago. Horizon was a true rarity. She found herself wanting to stay immersed in his company - for the next wolf she met would probably hate Zoya on sight if they recognized her as a daughter of Irina, and she was tired of hiding and running.

“We could’ve been anywhere, anywhere else!”