“No. He’s no relation. We were raised together. That’s all.”
“That’s all?”
“Yes.”
Annette failed to appreciate the note underlying the echo of her words.
“Sort of brother and sister, eh? You just played together? Maybe even fought together—as playmates will?”
Annette stirred. Croisette saw the grip of her hands tighten on the rail. She inclined her head.
“Yes.”
“In a city? Where?”
“No. The hills. West.”
“Ah! The hills. West. Forest and hill, valleys and rivers—all the wonderful things that set kiddies dreaming and playing. Where you’re free and unrestrained. Where companionship is everything. And the Wolf was your companion. You liked your playmate, and he liked you. You loved him—as a child?”