We approached each other in a small clearing, stopping a few feet away. It was mid-afternoon and the sun shone high above our heads, throwing everything into clarity. I was reminded of the first night we'd met, in a clearing similar to this one.
"I'm surprised you're letting me run the rest of the way by myself," I started the conversation hesitantly, trying to keep my voice light.
"If it weren't for that necklace I'd never let you. I'm sure it would upset your pack if I joined you, but without that protection, I wouldn't care. Be careful; it'll be long past dark before you're home." His eyes flashed with worry, and he was still taut with tension. I sensed that he was putting a great deal of trust in Raziel's necklace by letting me be alone in the dark. That spoke volumes of the Angel's
