Wolves have little concept of "I."
So forgive us if we are forgetful.
Before this story deteriorates, let me introduce myself.
My name's Kora.
"An unusual pup, to be sure." Father's voice echoes loudly in
the small den.
"Ivan, please," Mother whispers, "I just got the pups to sleep."
Warm ad cozy beside her, I close my eyelids tighter.
I don't want them to know I'm awake. They'll tell me not
to listen to grown-up talk.
Father lowers his voice. "I think there is more than one pair
of ears listening."
Caught!
"Thank you, Ivan." Mother licks him- I can hear it- and then she licks me.
"Little one, your ears may be the sharpest here. Take care what
they listen to."
"Yes, Mother." Happy to be scolded so lightly, I add, "We will go
to sleep now."
I keep my promise.
**
Next day, the pale sun warms my coat. My brothers and sisters
stir and whimper: We're hungry!
Sleepily, Mother turns on her side. We each vie for a spot.
I let the others bark and yelp while I start sucking.
"Clever child." Mother says it so softly that I don't know
if she's addressing me.
