Jade watched as she left town, never coming back. The thought of not getting to spend more time with her stung him. He fought the tears that were trying to form in his eye. Not knowing what would happen to her in Africa was horrible.

“Good bye Dinah” He said for the last time as he turned around to go back into town. 

Days went past like nothing had happened, but this one dog felt like his life had been turned upside down. All he did was run with the mail, eat and sleep. Dogs rarely saw him in town anymore. 

What would happen to him? 

Year went passed and Jade was getting social again and had met a female dog named Aiyanna. She was a Shetland sheepdog and a very active one, could never stand just lying around and doing nothing. She was really polite to everyone and thought of everyone as equal. She was confident and full of love. They became mates and were deeply in love. They had a puppy together who got the name Lucky Clover. Jade couldn’t believe that he could be this lucky. 

Jade was a mail dog in Nome and was the lead dog on the team, because he was well build and also had the stamina from his father. But he didn’t know that he had an enemy that was out to get him. 

---------------------------

Jade had finally arrived home after a run to White Mountain to get the mail. 
“Great work everyone” He complemented his team who were jumping around still full of energy from the run. Jade noticed few girls looking towards the team, he barely knew them well but he knew that one of them was Kit who he had spoken to few times before. He noticed she was walking towards him and he started to blush thinking she had noticed him looking at them. 

“Hi Jade” said Kit, casually, trying to keep her voice friendly.

"Oh hi there Kit, how are you?" Jade answered thankful for the friendly tone. 

“Fin…” She was about to finish but was interrupted by a puppy that came running towards the team. 

“DAD! DAD!” Jade turned around but not quickly enough to avoid the attacker who was now lying on top of him laughing. 

“DAD! Welcome home!!!! Can you come with me?!? I have to show you something!” Clover spoke so fast it was hard to hear clearly what she said but Jade was already used to it. 

“Clover please don’t jump on daddy when he is talking to someone…Now apologize!” Jade said in a warm voice as Clover looked down awkwardly. 

“I’m sorry….” She looked up.

“My name is Kit” Kit said and smiled sheepishly at Clover who was now standing right in front of her and looking up. 

“Can we be friends?” Clover asked suddenly surprising Kit. 

“Of course we can” Kit said not wanting to disappoint her.

“DAD… can you come now!” Clover asked fussing around in circles.

“No honey, I’m talking to Kit go to your mother and ask her to go with you” Jade answered his daughter who wasn’t very pleased with the answer but decided she would do as he said. 

“Sorry about that” Jade said as he watched after his daughter running towards her mother’s home.

"Its allright" she responded, her voice still friendly, although her insides were quivering from the butterflies that flew around "I think she's adorable. Actually, I came here to tell you that if you ever need someone to look after her, I'd be more than willing to do so"

She could not believe she said that. The reason why she actually came over was just to say hi, and hopefully strike up a conversation. Clover just so happened to charge in at the moment, bursting with news. Kit was actually grateful, it sure gave them something to talk about. But she hadn't been lying either, she really did find Clover to be darling and cute.

Jade looked pleased. And took a quick glance in the direction Clover had gone.

"Yeah she is amazing" He said sounding like a proud parent.

"It would be fun for Clover if you babysat her sometime, she seemed to like you a lot" Jade said with a smile, thinking of how quickly Clover had asked her to be her friend.

" Just let me know and I'll be there " she replied, feeling more and more confident " So who's the lucky mother?"

She really hope she didn't sound rude by asking so, she was just curious.

"Her name is Aiyanna, we met about a year ago" He said smiling and then realizing he sounded like he was bragging.

"What about you? Have a mate or are you intrested in someone?"

"On, no. Not really" she responded, not daring to betray any hint of blush. She knew well enough that all hopes for any future for him should be abadoned right away. But they could still be friends right?

"Here's my sissy" came a tall muscular male, his tail draping across her back

"Utah!" exclaimed Kit, always happy to see her old brother

"Hey Jade, how's it going" greeted Utah politely 

"I think I have to go now, besides, Clover has something veeeery important to show you, can't keep her waiting" remarked Kit

"Hey there Utah!" Jade said with a smile.

"Yeah I guess you are right I should hurry up before she gets mad at me." Jade said faking a sad look. 

"I'll see you soon hopefully!" Jade said with a smile and walked in the other direction when Kit and Utah had said their goodbyes. As he was walking he noticed it was getting dark he looked ahead and heard a noise in the distance. Something was coming running in his direction, it was a rather small thing and when it got closer he realized it was Clover. 

"DAD!" She called with tears in her eyes, trying to say something, but the sobbing made it hard for her. Jade had started running towards her when he noticed she was crying. 

"Clover, honey whats wrong?" He asked as she ran into his body at full speed. She hid in his fur trying to calm herself down so she could speak. 

"Dad! They are hurting mom!" She said in a shaky voice. "They are so many and they are being mean to her. Mom told me to run and get you because she needs help! Please don't let them hurt mom more!" Clover said and started crying again. Jade could then hear more noise in the distance and his expression changed to horror.

"Clover honey go and find Ruby or Maggie and tell them what happened! I have to go help your mom" Jade was counting the seconds as he spoke but he didn't want to risk the life of his little girl and he knew that Aiyanna would say the same. 

"I want to hel...." Clover was about to say but Jade shook his head and told her to be quick. Clover ran off in the opposite direction while Jade started sprinting in the direction all the noise was coming from. Jade slowed down as he got near the alley, it was a popular place for stray dogs. He could hear someone yelling but couldn't hear what was being said clearly so he got closer. 

"YOU FOOLS! This isn't the dog I told you to attack!" Jade was now looking into the alley he could see about five dogs talking together and one seemed to be familiar. The leader was a dark brown dog with a black patch on his back. 

"But this is the dog the little pup brought with her!" A blond dog said holding his head close to the ground and looking at the dog that had spoken before. 

"BUT YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO KILL HER FATHER!" Jade then realized who it was, Jason Aiyanna ex mate. Jade ran into the alley at a full speed infront of Aiyanna who was lying still in the corner. 

"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO HER?!" Jade growled and didn't take his eyes of Jason. 

While Jade was confronting Jason, Kit and Utah were making their way back home, after having chatted with Jade moments ago.

"Okay, get this" went on Utah after saying their farewells,“ I heard that our lil bro has a new crush"

"Oh no, who's the unlucky girl" teased kit in response

"Its-"

"Wait, hold" interrupted Kit, she turned around and seemed to be looking for something, with pricked ears and erect tail

"What is it?" frowned Utah

"Its just...something is wrong"

"What?"

"I don't know, do you ever get that feeling that something isn't right?"

"Yeah, I feel it too"

Utah began to break into a jog and Kit didn't hesisate to join him. The pair of them raced and Kit saw Clover running towards her

"Clover! Sweetie slow down, is everything okay?" called kit, using her paw to stop the small pup

"No! They're hurting mommy! I have to find Rubby and MAggie" she babbled, which sounded mixed up.

"Utah, go get them" instructed Kit "You're faster, I've got Clover"

Utah nodded briskly before turning tail and sprinting towards thier home

"Its okay, Utah will get Ruby and Maggie. What happened"

"some dogs are hurting Mommy, and I don't know why. I found dad and told him, and he told me to" she was trembling so hard she broke off in mid sob. Kit drew her closer to her withher small tail.

"It'll be okay" she whimpered soothingly " I promise"

She heard fast footsteps and she saw Utah leading Maggie and Ruby, each of them looking paniked

"Whats happening?!" Panted Ruby?

"I don't know, Clover show us where they are"

Clover took off towards the alley way and the adults followed her fearing the worst

Meanwhile, Jade was face to face with Jason, still feeling anguish from the sight of his mate.

"THIS IS THE ONE YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO GET!" Jason growled and his comrades came charging towards Jade. Jade was a lot faster and he targetted Jason. Jason was a strong dog though he didn't have the speed Jade did, so he was jumped upon and attacked. The other dogs watched as their leader fought the dog he hated the most, and helped him by forcing Jade away, and pinning him down.

"See her lying there! SHE is dead! It's not like a big loss, she couldn't even give me puppies!" Jason said in a mocking voice. Jade struggled hard but couldn't break free.

"Don't worry, this fate is meant for you, so you will be with her soon in hell!" Jason said and a laughter escaped his mouth. 

"Who is there?!" A voice called coming closer to the alley many footsteps could be heard walking in the snow. The rescue party had just turned the corner and Kit gasped as she saw Jade under attack, and his mate motionless in the corner.

 

"***** it!" Jason said not wanting to be caught so he made a run for it without saying anything to his comrades, who all scrambled after him as they realized what was happening. As soon as Jade was free he ran to Ayianna.

"You sons of b******!", growled Utah, and he chased after the small group until they were long gone.

"Ayianna, honey please wake up!" He said nuzzling her but there was no respond. Few dogs that had called before had arrived in the alley and Utah was explaining what had happened. 

"Aiyanna...?" Jade said his ears falling back, he couldn't hear a heartbeat anymore. 

Jade lay there over Aiyanna's body all night not wanting to leave her, not wanting to let her go! Jade had asked Utah to bring Clover to her aunt Ruby, he would tell her in the morning

"She's gone" murmerd Utah, his tail lowering.

"No" whispered Kit, filling with despair

"Mommy?..." began Clover, making her way towards her deseased mother

"No" said Jade, his voice cracking "Don't let her see, I'll exlpain it to her later"

"C'mon little one" murmured kit, guiding her away "Daddy will tell you everything later"

"Is mommy going to be okay" she asked, her eyes looking up pleadingly

Kit glanced at Ruby, begging for help

"Lets hope so!" Ruby said in a low voice and hugged Clover. Everyone knew that she hadn't made it but they couldn't say it to a innocent child. 

"Thanks for your help" Ruby said to Utah and Kit as she glanced over her shoulder at Jade who lay now beside Aiyanna's body. 

"Clover honey you will spend the night with me!" Ruby said trying to fake a cheerful voice. Clover gave a small hopeful smile which broke everyones heart who saw it. If only she knew...

-------------------------

Days passed and Jade had turned into a ghostlike person. Clover was sent between Ruby and Maggie.  One day, neither could babysit her so they asked Kit to take care of her for one day. 

"Hi Kit!" Clover said happy but it was easy to see that the sadness wasn't far off.

"Hi Clover want to play with me today?" Kit said trying to distract her like the rest did. 

"Can we see dad today?" Clover asked hopefully and Kit couldn't find it in herself to deny it since the poor thing hadn't seen her father for the past days. 
They found him at home lying on a blanket in the corner of the room. 

"Dad..?" Clover said and her voice was about to break as she ran towards him. But jade didn't answer her he just turned his head around. Clover ran back to Kit!

"Kit dad is sick!" Clover said and started to cry. She thought that was the reason he couldn't see her.

It tore Kit's inside to see her suffer like this, all while still being completely clueless
 

"Yeah, he's a bit sick. Which is why you can't see him, you don't want to get sick, do you?"

But she eventually will, thought Kit hopelessly.

"c'mon, lets go to the beach" said kit, trying to sound cheerful "I heard that there are seashells on the shore"

She hoped that it would distract her, for now. As they both turned away, Kit glanced at Jade, as she felt pity and remorse. He didn't even get the chance to say goodbye she thought, and she sincerely hoped that he would be well enough to face his daughter once more. Neither of them could hide the truth much longer.

They met up with Utah and the small group arrived at the beach. After playing for a long time on the shore digging for shells and running away from the waves that hit the shore, Clover suddenly stopped and looked up at Kit. 

"When is mom coming back? I miss her!" Clover said and her ears fell back as she let out a small whimper.

"Me and mom often went to the beach to play, I wish she had gone with us today but Ruby said I couldn't see her anymore, why is that?" Clover really hoped for answers from Kit. She was of course her new best friend forever. Both Ruby and Maggie had told her that her mother had to leave and her father would tell her soon why but he was sick and Clover wanted her mom to take care of him.

Kit inhaled sharply at the question. Beside her, Utah's ears faltered. Kit desperately wanted to tell her, she had the right to know, it was her mother after all. But she felt as if she didn't have the right to exlpain. Kit wondered how she and her kin managed to get so heavily involved. One second, they were friends, and now she had become involved. Of course, she didn't mind. She was more than pleased to help out their family in whatever way she could.

The way Clover looked up at her caused her insides to quiver, for she understood that Clover trusted her.

"Clover she-" Kit searched desperately for the right words " I'm sorry. Clover, sweetie...your mom is not coming back. Ever"

Utah hung his head, for he understood the inner turmoil his sister was going through, and that it would all end badly

"Something happened to her, and she can't come back. Thats why you're dad is sick." she explained, each word stabbing like a new shard.

"I...I don't understand" Clover stuttered and tried to put the things together in her head. She then looked up at Kit and Utah with tears in her eyes. 

"Is she mad at me? Doesn't she want to see me anymore?" Clover sobbed and looked around confused.

"I didn't know that they were going to hurt her, They asked me to bring dad with me but he was busy talking to you so he told me to ask mom. They promised they would show me the beautiful stones they had found if I brought dad, but when I came with mom they were angry and started to hurt her. I didn't know they were going to do that!" Clover had started to speak in hurry it was all so confusing for her that she started to cry even more.

Despair filled Kits insides. She was so young and innocent, yet she had to face such a trail, a trail that she was still unaware of. Kit sat down and took a deep breath, and drew Clover close to her.

"No, she loves you VERY much. She could never be mad at you, if anything at all, she misses you like crazy"

"But she can't come back" added Utah "In fact she left me a message to tell you"

Kit threw him a "what are you doing" look. As far as anyone knew, Aiyanna had no last words.

"She said" went on Utah ignoring Kits expression "That she loves you very much and that your Daddy will take care of you, but you have to take care of him too"

Kit was impressed. Of course, Aiyanna said no such thing, but she was almost certain that she would say something like that. She then thought about what Clover said, about how Jade was supposed to be the victim, not Aiyanna. Her blue eyes widened as she realized something. When she first met Jade, Clover had desperately wanted to show him something "very important", but she had dismissed since Jade had been talking to her. So Clover retrieved her mother instead, thus bringing to her death.

It was all her fault. Kit wanted to forget about it, but the truth stared right in her face. If Kit had never chosen to converse with Jade, his mate may still be alive today. Kit felt horror well up inside at the realization, then the questions came. Does Jade realize this? Would he hate her now? Should she sever all alliance with his family. What about Clover?

Utah recognized Kits expression and stood up

"Hey clover, lets go play in the waves. Then we can go check on your father. How does that sound?"

He then turned to kit and murmured

"I don't know what you're thinking about, but I know that you need to figure something out" his tail brushed his side

Kit nodded, hardly listening and stood up as well. She realized that she had to talk to someone about it, and realized that Jade had the right to know. Did he blame himself for her death?

Clover followed Utah to to beach to play in the waves. She had already started before Utah arrived after her. She looked up and noticed that Kit wasn't there anymore but thought there was a reason behind this so she kept playing.

-------------------

Jade lay still at home his thoughts kept reflecting the things that had happened. 

"She can't be gone!" he whispered but deep down he knew he wasn't right. He had been to late, he hadn't been able to save her! But Clover had been saved though.

"Clover?" Jade looked up in a shook his mind had been blurred for the past few days. He had no idea where Clover was, how she was feeling. The truth hit him in the face. He hadn't been there for her when she needed him. He quickly stood up and ran to the door but as he was about to exit Kit stuck her head through the doggy door. 

"Kit?" Jade asked in a surprise

"Oh!" exclaimed Kit, as she almost bumped heads with Jade. In all honesty, it had surprised her that Jade was actually on his feet and running. But it was most definitely nice that he was looking a bit better, more conscious.

"Oh Jade! You're up" seeing him looking better, she suddenly decided to hold back her epiphany. He didn't need to know..at least not yet "How are you feeling?"

"I'm a little better but where is Clover?!" Jade asked in a hurry.

"She is playing on the beach with Utah" Kit answered, surprised by his eagerness. 

"Thank you for helping her!" Jade said and nuzzled her before running towards the beach.

Kit was taken aback by his rush, especially since he looked ready to die less than an hour ago. What did that nuzzle mean?

"Jade wait" called Kit, running to catch up to him " I think you should know, that I already told her that her mother is never coming back. I'm sorry, it just seemed like..." she suddenly wished that she had kept her mouth shut. Today was a bad day altogether for her

Jade came to a stop and looked back at Kit. 

“Oh, I should have told her before but…” He stopped and looked to the ground trying to get his face together. He couldn’t keep on being depressed; he needed to take care of his daughter.

“I’m really thankful for you helping Clover through this.” Jade said with a sad smile then turned back around. 

“I’m going to try and fix our relationship again!” he called back to Kit who was still following him. 

Jade could‘t wait to see Clover again. He needed to see her again, embrace her, because she was all that he had left. And it was a wonderful blessing.

“DAD!” Clover noticed Jade coming and ran to greet him. She nuzzled his thick fur and he took her into his embrace. 

“I’m so sorry honey.” He said and a tear slipped down his cheek. 

“So you are not sick anymore?” Clover asked and Jade looked surprised in Kit’s direction. She looked down a bit embarrassed and Jade understood.

“No honey, I’m feeling better now. Was it fun playing with Utah and Kit?” Jade asked and Clover nodded happily.

“It was really fun! Kit told me mom could never come back why is that?” Both Utah and Kit looked at Jade as he struggled to put it right.

“She had to go but some day in the future we will meet her again but that will be a long time away, so in the meantime, we have to think about her and also you can speak to her. She will always be listening to you.” Jade answered hoping she would understand.

“Oh...” Clover looked up at the sky. “Hi mom, I really do miss you and I hope can come meet you someday, me and Kit are good friends now and also Utah, he is really funny!” She said and giggled to herself. 

Jade looked at her with a sad smile on his face.

Kit watched with a small feeling of grief in her heart. She really wished that she hadn't gotten so involved, it seems as if she had only messed up the situation more.

"Didja hear that, she thinks I'm funny" smirked Utah, in a playful manner

"She must've meant your face" muttered Kit, returning the affection

"Aw, don't be jealous" he laughed "C'mon, lets leave them alone. They have some catching up to do"

Kit nodded and caught Jad'es eyes. She gave a soft smile and waved her tail in departure before following Utah. She hoped he got the message. Jade watched them leave and gave a small smile.

Jade spent the day playing with Clover on the beach before taking her home. As they were walking home Jade noticed that someone was watching them. He pushed Clover to the site so he was covering her. 
Jason went back into the shadow and walked the other way; Jade really wanted to run after him and revenge Aiyanna but he noticed Clover looking up at him worried. 

"Lets go home" He said with a smile and followed her inside. 

"Dad? can we meet Kit and Utah again tomorrow?" she said as she lay down next to him yawning. Jade looked surprised at her, she really had taken a liking to Kit and Utah. 

"Maybe, we will see tomorrow." Jade answered and laid his head down next to her.

As they drifted off to sleep, Kit and Utah barely made it home, and Utah was chatting away.

"I gotta tell ya, Clover is one awsome puppy" chatted Utah once they left the small family behind.

"Yeah, she is"

" I mean, she so small and she managed to get me to fall over. Thats crazy! Crazy cute though"

"Oh yeah?"

"OKay, whats wrong" he said, not being able to stand her half hearted responses. He knew that she wasn't trying to be so gloomy. It meant that something was really bothering her.

"Its just..." she inahled and spilled her emotions on her brother. She told him about her realization and her dread. "All I want to do is help out as much as I can. But everytime I try, I only make i worse. Like, Jade should've told Clover that her mother was gone for good. And its my fault that Aiyanna is dead"

"What?!" yelped Utah "How can you say that, thats a load of cats fur and bones. You weren't anywhere near them when Aiyanna was attacked."

"But Clover had to show Jade something important. And since Jade was talking to me, she went and got Aiyanna instead, and now she dead. If Jade had never been talking to-"

"Stop right there" said Utah firmly and moved in front of his sister "You had nothing to do with Aiyanna's death. Nothing. It was bad luck that her ex wanted revenge, not you. How could you have any idea? You shouldn't feel responsbile for anything that happened"

"But I can be responsible for leading Clover on. Utah, I promised her that her mother would be okay" she cried

"And as far as Clover knows, her mother is okay. Whatever happends next will just happen, but it wouldn't be your fault. Got it?"

Kit nodded, still not feeling completely guilt free. But she did feel a bit better. Gosh, she had such an awsome brother. And she let him know my nuzzling him

"Thanks" she said into his fur

"Its all good" he then yawned " its getting late"

And with that they pair of them entered their home that they shared together, and fell asleep

----------------------------------------------------

Jade woke up the next day and noticed Clover wasn't lying next to him. 

"Clover?" He looked around shocked. Where did she go?

"CLOVER?" He called again looking around the house. He finally found her in the kitchen asleep next to the food bowl. She looked up and yawned after hearing her name.

"Hi dad!" She said with a small wag of her tail. Jade went over to her and nuzzled her. He had to calm down. He was really afraid of letting Clover out of his sight. 

"JADE COME HERE BOY!" his owner called from outside. 

"Oh I forgot I have to make a run to White mountain today" He said to Clover. He had promised her that they would do something fun today. 

"Can I go meet Kit then?" Clover asked hopefully. She had been looking forwards to spending some time with her dad finally but she understood the importance of his job. 

"JADE!" Jade noticed his owner was in a hurry. 

"Okay Clover go check if Kit is home but if she isn't you go straight to either Ruby or Maggie, understood?" Jade received a nod from Clover who then ran to the door.
Jade gave out a sigh he really wished he could spend more time with her.

Kit was snoozing softly to herself, with Utah grumbling in his sleep beside her. She felt comfortable and well energized.

"Kit? Are you there?" came a muffled cry from the othersdie of the door

Kit raised her head in confusion, letting loose a big yawn. She stood up, looking a bit bleary and poked her head out through the doggie door. What she saw woke up her up quickly

"Clover? Oh hey sweetie" she greeted "Is everything allright?"

From the otherside, her hind leg kicked Utah's back

"I didn't do it!" he said, waking up suddenly. He looked around and saw Kit's headless body "Hey. who's there?" he asked aloud. He pushed his head through and saw Clover there

"Well look who it is? Its my favorite little cutie" he said.

Clover blushed after hearing Utha's greeting but she shock it off. 

"Can I be with you today? Daddy went to deliver the mail and I don't want to be with Maggie or Ruby today. They are so busy thinking about boys" She said sticking out her tongue which made Utah laugh. 

"Please Kit! I'll behave and you don't have to worry about me I'll just follow you around like a shadow, you won't even notice!" Clover tried to compose herself to stand straight and closed her mouth with a dramatic bite of air.

"Oh no, where'd she go?" exclaimed Utah in mock surprise, his eyes looking around as if he were looking for someone.

kits rolled her eyes good naturally and kicked his hind leg with hers, laughing inwardly. She understood how Clover would find Boy talk icky, seeing how she was too young to understand any of it.

"Course you can come with me" she said as she wriggled out from through the doggie door "And you don't even have to acty like a shadow. We can do whatever you like."

The three of them ended up spending time on the beach once again. The beach was very lovely in the summer and you could watch the sun set from the old boat that stood there. The boat was empty but Clover had heard that a half wolf and half dog had once lived there who had saved the town. Clover didn't really know how he saved the town but she was to scared of stepping onto the boat.

"What are you so scared of?" Utah asked jokingly

"There is probably a ghost on that ship Utah, and if you go aboard he will eat you!" Clover said in a harsh warning voice. Kit rolled her eyes and wasn't really happy with her brother teasing poor Clover.

"And who told you that?" Utah asked lifting his eyebrow

"Ruby's and Maggie's friend JT, he said he had gone on the boat one night and after the sun had set the ghost came out and was going to eat him but JT was quick to escape!" Clover believed the story and couldn't understand how Utah could laugh so much. 

"It's not funny Utah! He almost died!" Clover said standing face to face with Utah looking really mad. 

"Oh really? Should we go check it out then?" Utah asked and lifted Clover up and started walking towards the boat. 

"KIT HELP!!!" Clover screamed and Kit came running. 

"Okay that's enough Utah!" Kit said giving him a warning glance. 

"CLOVER?!?" A voice called from the distance. Clover looked up and forgot all her anger at Utah. 

"DAD!" Clover ran down the beach to great her father who hugged her tightly. 

"Thank you so much Kit for taking care of her, I really owe you so much." Jade said with a smile.

"It was really no trouble at all. We love having Clover around" resonded Kit with a happy bark

"Heck yeah" agreed Utah from behind "I still gotta take you on that boat someday!"

Kit tossed him an unamused look.

Kit then turned her attention to the small embraced family before her. It was a really good thing that Jade had come back from his depression, he was such great guy. And Clover needed her father, especially since she was all that she had left. And the same could be said for Jade as well.
Her mother would still be alive if it weren't for me, she still couldn't help but think. But it was like her brother had said, what is done is done. Kit would now have to live on like normal.
But will anything ever be normal again? She realized that she had become somewhat attached to Clover. She was just so adorable! But the last thing she wanted to do was become Clover's replacement mother. And she doubted that Jade would even let her.
Right?

Jade noticed that Kit was deep in her thoughts and was worried. Maybe he was putting more pressure on her making her babysit Clover while he was away with his team. 

Jade looked down on Clover with a smile. "I bet you can't catch Utah's tail in less than ten minutes!" Jade said with a grin which got Clover into a attack mode. Clover suddenly sprinted off after Utah. Utah turned around just in time to escape her tackle. 

"You little prankster!" He said and started to run around the beach laughing with Clover after him sprinting. 

Jade looked back to Kit who had been surprised by the sudden action. 

"I'm really sorry if I'm putting so much on you...We didn't really know each other much before all of this happend." He said with a sad smile. Kit was taken by surprised. They hadn't really talked about it much before. 

"I want to make it up to you for all that you have done for me and Clover" He said and pointed towards Clover who had chased Utah into the sea, not to his amusement.

"Me and Clover will take you out tomorrow, what do you say?" Jade asked with a hopeful look on his face.

Kit was taken aback for a moment. This was unexpected, especially with her recent thoughts. She didn't want to be a bother, especially since she felt not pressure whatsoever.

"Oh no, I don't feel any pressure at all! I adore clover, and someone has to teach Utah a lesson"

"Oh yeah?" came Utah's voice from a distance, who was speaking to clover " I'll teach you to mess with The Utah" and then there was more splashing

"Besides, I'm sure you want to spend more time with Clover instead"

"Clover has taken a great liking to you, she's always talking about you. I'm sure she would be more than happy to have you with us" He said with a smile. 

"But if you have other plans, We understand." At the same moment Clover came skipping back. 

"Dad I got him! I win!" She said cheering for herself while Utah faked a annoyed look. Jade laughed and hugged his daughter. 

"You just keep getting stronger and stronger. I won't be afraid about you when you grow older! You can kick anyones butt!" Jade said with a laugh and Clover nodded proudly.

"Well, then I would love to" responded Kit "and maybe Utah should come, he still needs to learn his manners"

With that, Utah shook his wet fur, making sure that Kit shared the wetness

"Whatever sis " he reponded lightly " I've got things to do tomorow. Basil and I want to go and do something" He then turned his attention to Jade "You've got one tough girl right there. In a couple days, she'll be dragging me by my ear"

"Thats what I'm hoping for" Jade said with a grin as Clover gave Utah a threatening look before giggling at how Utah had gotten wet from their game. 

"I'll see you then tomorrow" Jade said to Kit with a smile. Clover looked up at her father and Kit. "ARE WE GOING TO MEET KIT AGAIN TOMORROW?" She screamed with joy and ran all over the place jumping. 

"We're going to have alot of fun Kit, aren't we?" Clover asked wagging her tail so much that it looked liked it might take of soon. 

Kit smiled and nodded. 

"But then we have to get you to sleep on time young lady!" Jade said taunting voice. Clover nodded and started to run of into the direction of her home. 

"Bye!" Jade said with a laugh before running after his daughter...man she had gotten fast.

Kit gave them a farewell, and she could feel her heart swell from absolute joy. She could hardly wait until tomorow. She had a date!
She immediately took back that thought. Where had THAT come from? It wasn't a date at all, it was simply a hang out day. and it was very nice of Jade to offer.

"Man, Clover really can tussle" remarked Utah "she nipped my tail! But I can't help but love her"

"I know" she laughed 

-----------------------------------
The following day, Kit sat patiently at the front of her house, her small tail swinging from side to side. Her owner had a lot of work to do today, allowing Kit plenty of time to hang with Jade and Clover. To her pleasure, her ownder also decided that it was time for Kit to take a bath, so Kit felt fresh and presentable.

Jade approached Kit's house along with Clover. Jade had this funny feeling in his stomach which he couldn't get rid of, he blamed it on something he just ate although deep down he knew it was something else. 

"Clover we're going to make this day special for Kit since she has done so much for us!" Jade said to his daughter who nodded happily. She loved special occasions.

When Kit came in view Jade was taken by surprise. Her soft fur looked much softer and she smelled so good. Jade shock his head in confusion.

"Kit! we're here!" Clover called happily as she came bouncing towards her. Kit smiled and stood up to greet them. 

"So what do you want to do today Clover?" Kit asked.

 "Kit you have to follow us!" Clover commanded in a serious voice and took off again. Kit glanced at Jade who just smiled and nodded towards Clover so Kit followed her. 

After being led across some land always being reminded that they were supposed to follow Clover, Kit couldn't hide her curiosity.

"So where are we going?" She asked Jade who just smiled. 

"It's a secret place that me and Clover only know of, or so we like to believe." Jade pointed towards the outer trees of the forest. 

"Just a bit farther!" Clover called as she entered the trees. Kit followed behind taken by surprise when they entered a little opening surrounded by tall trees but not high enough to block out the sun. 

Clover smiled. "Here we are!"

Kit drew in her breath sharply at the view. The placement of the trees was just right, so that a gorgeous view of the sky could be seen. She had been into the forest several times, having several family members as wolves. But she had seen nothing like this before. It was a very tranquil place. A perfect sanctuary.

Clover smiled proudly "Me and dad found this place, it has been our secret but we agreed you could keep the secret with us." Jade nodded his head smiling and was happy with Kit's reaction. 

This place had been their favorite spot ever since they had found it and when they had a day off they would spend it here. 

Jade lay down in the sun, allowing it to heat up his fur, while Clover bounced around happily between the trees, trying to get her father to play hide and seek.

Kit felt honored to be shared such a secret, and she most definitely would keep it that way. The place smelled natural and clear, which meant that it was usually unbothered by other types of canine near by.

She decided to play with Clover, who seemed to be at her own game.

"Watcha doin there Clover?" she asked, approaching the small girl

"I want to play hide and seek but dad is lazy!" She said pointing towards her father. "Do you want to play?" Clover asked wagging her tail. 

"Sure, I would love to!" Kit smiled "Go and hide and I'll count to twenty" Kit said and started counting. Clover ran of giggling, not really making which direction she went off to difficult, which made Kit smile. 

"Twenty, here I go!" Kit called and started to lurk around the area. "Where did she go?" Kit asked in a playful voice noticing then that Jade was watching her. Kit blushed but kept on searching. They could both hear Clover giggling behind a tree and after a little while of searching Kit finally went to find her.

"Okay now it's my turn!" Clover said and started counting.

Kit gave a small laugh and scanned the place for a decent kiding spot. One that was concealed enough, but not too difficult for Clover. A small idea came into her mind

"Jade" she whispered, approaching the resting male "You should hide too, I think she'll really like that"

Jade stood up and nodded without making a noise. They both found a hiding place that shouldn't be to difficult for Clover. Clover finished counting and looked around. Suddenly she noticed her dad missing and freaked out.

"DAD!" She started screaming and running around the opening. Jade laughed and came out of his hiding place.

"Clover I was just hidding with Kit." He said and nuzzled Clover who was just getting over her shock. Kit felt a bit bad for what just happened and was about to come out of hidding when Jade told Clover to look for Kit. Clover started to look along with her father and after awhile they found her.

They spent the rest of the afternoon together, playing games and simply enjoying each other's company. Kit couldn't help but feel attached to Clover, the young girl had a very warming personality and a sweet disposition. Jade was most certainly fortunate. 

Eveing had begun to fall, sending the trio back to Nome. Clover seemed tuckered out and Kit felt at ease, the day had been very enjoyable. She soon realized that she found Jade's company worthwhile. They were then encountered by Sadie, Jade's littermate.

"Jade!" she barked happily, as she always did at the sight of her beloved brother. She then caught sight of Kit and a small expression of polite interest spread across her face "Hey, who's this? You didn't tell me you had a girlfriend"

Kit was suprised and felt slightly embarrased. Is that what it looked like?

Jade was taken back "OH no, we're just friends...or" Jade blurred out in hurry looking confused. What was he thinking! His mate hadn't been dead for long and he was with another girl now! 

"Jade?" Sadie looked worried at her brother and noticed that her joke had gotten to him. "I was just kidding."

Clover hadn't spoken a word while this happened. What did Sadie mean by girlfriend? Her mom was Jade's girlfriend and mate. Suddenly she looked between Jade and Kit and noticed it. They didn't just look like friends anymore. 

Tears welled up in Clovers eyes "HOW COULD YOU!" She suddenly screamed at Kit who hadn't said a word. Then she ran off.

Sadie was startled by Clover's sudden outburst, and gave a slight jump. She immediately felt terrible, she never meant to upset anyone, especially clover. The comment was a small tease and an icebreaker, for Jade to introduce Kit to her. But it was misunderstood instead

"I'm so sorry!" she apologized, looking bewildered "I just..."

Kit soon realized what was going on. She knew Sadie could say the wrong things at times, but her remark was friendly, she realized that. But she soon realized that Sadie had a point, were she and Jade just friends? It hit her that she had become fond for Jade, without meaning to. She always admired him, but becoming his mate had always been out of the question. What about now?

"Clover, wait!" but the small girl had already run off. Guilt pricked at Kit and she turned to Jade, looking apologetic. She didn't know what to say.

Jade watched after Clover sprinting off. He was confused but understood suddenly what she meant. "Kit...I'm sorry, I have to go!" Jade said with a sad sigh and took off after his daughter. 

Jade sprinted after his daughter through town but she had his running ability so he was surprised about how hard it was catching up to her. His mind was so confused, what should he do? He knew what Sadie said was true and before in the meadow he had even though about it. Kit and Clover were getting so well together so a small part of him though it was okay. But how could he, his mate had died not so long ago, was he ruining her memory. was he a horrible dog? 

Finally he noticed Clover lying outside their home. Her cheeks were wet with tears. What had he done? 

"Clover, I'm sorry!" Jade said as he abroached his daughter. Clover turned away from him. 

"How could you do this to mom?" she said in between sobs. 

Jade's heart broke. How could he? "Clover, your mom is always with us and she wants us to be happy. I'll forever love her, you know that!"

"Why are you and Kit then acting like she never existed?" Clover turned around and snarled at her father. 

Jade was surprised, he had never seen her so angry before. "We're not acting that way Clover! Kit is just trying to help us, to help you!" 

"She will never replace my mother!" Clover shouted at her father before running away again. Jade didn't follow her, he just sat there thinking about what Clover had said. Was it right?

Kit had long made her way home, where she expected Utah. She dived through her doggy door and found him tackling a big bone

"Hey sis, woa!" he took one look at her emotionally upset face. He knew that she was spending the day with Clover and Jade, and didn't expect her to look soo terrible. "What happened?! What did he do? I swear, I'll-" he growled

"He didn't do anything, it was me. I'm never going to talk to that family ever again"

"I don't understand"

"I keep messing things up for them! First, I caused the death of Aiyanna, and now it looks as if I'm trying to replace her! Clover will never forgive me, and she'll probably hate Jade just as much. Its not fair that I keep making things wrong for Jade and whats left of his family"

"But you're not trying to do any of those things. I already told you to stop blaming yourself for Aiyanna's death. It was not your fault!. And well, I was worried about that last bit"

"What are you talking about" she said, looking at him in horror

"Well, I can kind of tell that you liked Jade. You always looked at him sweetly, even though you didn't mean to. As for Clover, she'll forgive you, hopefully. She's not the kind to carry grudges, but she's not the kind to forget either. I don't things will ever be the same again"

"Well, it will. Because I'll act as if I had never talked to them, or hung out with them, or anything. Clover needs Jade, and Jade needs Clover. Not me"

"Are you sure that Jade doesn't need you?"

"Why would he need me at all? He probably hates me for what I have done"

"How do you know that he isn't blaming himself? After all, he likes you too"

Kit didn't know how to respond, she just shook her head and lay down next to her brother.

"I'll just keep things to myself, thats all there is to it" she said

Jade had made his way to Kit‘s place. Jade had to talk to Kit. He wasn't sure what he was going to say though. Whispering to himself what he could say "Kit, I think we shouldn't see each other anymore." No! He couldn't say that, he shook his head, trying to clear his mind. When he finally arrived at the house he was greeted by Utah. 

"I'm sorry Jade, she doesn't want to see you anymore!" Utah said in a sympathizing voice. Jade's heart broke down. She didn't want to see him? Jade looked around. 

"Please I have to see her!" Jade pleaded. Utah gave a sad smile. This one time couldn't make it so much worse could it? Utah finally nodded towards the door. Jade thanked him and walked inside. He noticed Kit lying in the corner. 

"Kit?" Jade said as he walked closer to her. Kit spun around, surprised, but as soon as she saw Jade she looked away trying to hide the tears, but Jade had noticed. 

"Oh Kit, I'm so sorry. Please listen to me!" Jade pleaded and Kit looked at him again.

"I was going to come here and say we couldn't see each other anymore." Kit tried to hide the saddness that came over her but it was hard. 

"But Kit! I can't, I need you! I realize that now. The though of not being able to see you, to talk to you is unbearable!" Jade said with a sigh as he sat down. 

"I need you by my side, without you I'm broken!"

Kit felt some many emotins overwhelm her. First was shock, and surprise. He need her? It made no sense, after everything that has happened. After everything that she has done. Then she felt joy. He needed her! She felt the same way, and more than anything she wanted to press close to him, forever! Then came sorrow, because she knew that it would all be a mistake. It was like she said earlier, she was done tearing his family apart. And he had to realize that. Just as she had. 

She took a deep breath and forced himself to turn around and face her. The sight of him was a wonderful thing to see, and she wanted nothing more than to embrace him and inhale his comforting scent. Instead, she gave a small shake of her head.

"No you don't" she said, her voice quavering with emotion "You need Clover more than anything. Jade, its selfish of me, and I can't do that. Besides, will Clover even let me? She should be your first concern, not me"

Jade had expected another answer instead of the one he got. "But my family isn't whole...you're the one who keeps it together now! without you we would be even more broken than before." Jade said with sadness.

Kit didn't know what to think. She thought for a moment, before making a final decision

"Jade, I do want to be a part of your family. I realize that now. But I will only join you, if Clover is okay with it. Until then, we can only be friends"

Every word felt as if a bone was jammed in her throat. She brushed past him, and exited through the doggy door, desperate for some air, to clear her mind so that she could think about everything that was happening to her.

While Kit talked to Jade, Utah had snuck away, to leave them in private. Sure, he was curious about what they were saying, but it was disrespectful nonetheless. He had a better idea instead. He soon made his way towards Jade's settlement and found Clover on the porch, looking lonely and crestfallen.

"Its too nice of a day for a cutie like you to waste" he greeted her, as he got closer

"Go away Utah." she said, sourly

"Aw don't be like that." he said, sitting down besides her " I know you're upset. And maybe you have reason to be so. You wanna tell me why?"

He knew that everyone had a story to share, and maybe Clover needed someone to listen to her.

Clover looked up at Utah. He had always been so nice to her. 

"Dad is forgetting mom because of HER!" Clover spit out in an angry voice. Utah was surprised he had never heard Clover talking about Kit like that, they had been so great together.

Then Clover continued while crying "It's all my fault mom is gone, If I hadn't listened to that dog she would still be here! She died protecting me and now it feels like she's really disappearing, I don't want to lose her again! I wish I had died instead of her, then they would still be together, I feel like I'm ruining his life!" 
 

" Don't say that" said Utah in a understanding tone "You sound a lot like Kit. She blames herself for what happened. But its really no ones fault. Things happen all the time, and sometimes there is just nothing we could do about it. Do you really think things would be better if you were the one gone? Both your parents would be devastated."

"Kit also thinks that she is ruining your father's life. And your life too. No one is to blame."

Clover looked up at Utah "Kit blames herself too?" She asked surprised. She hadn't even thought about the chance that Kit would feel guilty about it too. 

"But it's not her fault! Kit shouldn't feel bad!" Clover started blurting out and Utah gave her a small smile. 

"And I've made it worse for her, she must hate me now" Clover was shocked.

" I've tried to tell her that. The same way I'm telling you that. No one can be blamed Clover. You need to understand that." said Utah
"Are you kidding me? Heh, she doesnt hate you. If she hates anyone, its herself. She thinks she's messing things up for you and your dad." he added

"Come on" he said standing up "Lets go find your daddy"

Utah and Clover walked towards Kit's home were Jade had last been but before they got there they noticed Jade walking in their direction with his head down. Clover hadn't seen her dad so sad after her mother died. 

"Dad are you okay?" Clover asked as she came running towards him. Jade was caught by a surprise and looked up. 

"Oh Clover, Hi" He said with a small smile but it wasn't up for long. Utah realized what had happened. 

"I have to go Clover, remember what I told you!" He said before running home. 

Clover suspected what had happened. "Dad I'm sorry, I didn't mean to hurt you and Kit. I just thought you were forgetting mom!" 

"Clover I would never forget your mom, I loved her so much and still do, but I'm sure she wants us to move on" Jade said and nuzzled his daughter. 

"But it doesn't matter now, Kit doesn't want to ruin our family anymore she said." Clover was surprised, so it was true what Utah had said. 

"Dad wait here!" Clover said before running in the same direction as Utah. As she approached Kit's house she could hear her talking to Utah.

Utah was talking to Kit, who looked rather crestfallen.
 

"Are you sure that this is what you want?" he asked her, after she gave a brief explanation

"Yes. I just want to do whats right for everyone"

"But what about you? Doesnt your happiness count?"

"I'm sure I'll be fine" she said, without looking at him

"I sure hope so" he said.

Clover felt horrible, Kit was sacrificing her own happiness for her and her father. Clover walked over to the doggy door and went inside, she felt awkward standing there and wasn't sure what she was going to say. 

"Clover?" Kit asked surprised and turned to look at her. Clover couldn't hold it in any longer she sprinted towards Kit and nuzzled her. 

"I'm so sorry Kit!" She said and started to cry. 

"I want you and dad to be happy together!"

Kit was taken aback and she tried to gather her senses. Just a few minutes ago, Clover was furious at her for falling for Jade. Now she was apologizing? Where had this change of heart come from?
Nonetheless, she was happy to see that Clover was no longer angry at her, so she returned the embrace.

"More than anything, i want you to be happy with your father" she said.

"But dad isn't happy without you now, he is ruined." Clover whimpered. 

"Did you know this is the third time he loses a girl he loves? That can't be fair to one person. He shouldn't have to go through that and if he's happy with you will you please be with him!" Clover begged. 

"But you have to promise you won't make him forget mom!" Clover suddenly said determined.

Kit was overwhelmed, and all her sorrow and troubles seem to melt away. Clover was right, and she could't deny how badly she wanted to be with Jade. It was a bit sudden, but it was how she felt.

"I promise Clover. He'll never forget your mother. Thank you" she stood up "Lets go find him, and tell him the good news"

Utah watched everything from afar, witha smile on his face. Things did work out after all, and it was something that he was delighted to see.

As Clover and Kit approached the house Clover told Kit that see wanted to go inside first and apologies, Kit nodded in a agreement and nuzzled her. Clover went through the doggy door. 

"Dad?" Clover looked around but didn't notice her father. She walked into the kitchen and found him lying on a old blanket in the corner of the room. He looked the same as the time when her mother died. So deep in depression that he didn't seem to be related to this world anymore. 

"Dad?" Clover tried again and went over to him and gave him a nuzzle. He barely looked up, he looked so much older, so much worn out. 

"Dad I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to hurt you! I just thought you were forgetting mom!" Clover said and tears welled up in her eyes. 

"It doesn't matter anymore, Kit doesn't want me" Jade said in a low voice and closed his eyes as tears started to fall.

Kit lay down, and decided to get comfortable. The idea that she and Jade would soon be mates was still an overwhelming idea, but it was happening. She didn't understand how, but she was grateful nonetheless. She couldn't think of anyone else she'd spend her life with. Her thought then turned to Aiyanna's death, and she felt that same sad feeling. Her death was rutheless, and just unfair. What had happened to Jason, the dogs that meant to kill jade rather than aiyanna? He was still out there, and a possible threat. Kit decided not to think about that now, and focus on the happier part of her life, that would soon involve Jade....

"Dad, Kit is waiting outside for you" Clover said after awhile, it was just horrible watching him suffer any longer. Jade finally looked at Clover. 

"Kit is outside, why?" Jade was surprised, he thought he had lost her chance with her.

"Wasn't the agreement that if I approve of your relationship you two would be together?" Clover asked with a grin on her face. Jade stood up in a hurry and almost hit his head on the table while running out of the kitchen. Clover smiled after him. 
Jade ran outside and there in front of him lay one of the most beautiful dogs on earth. He was so happy that he ran over to her and nuzzled her.

Before kit knew it, she was in a flurry of nuzzling and she recognized it to be Jade. She gave a happy bark and she returned the affection fully, feeling happier than she could ever remember. This was it! She pulled back and gave him a loving expression.

--------------------------------

Couple of months had pasted and life seemed perfect again. Kit and Jade were almost never separated expect when Jade had to deliver mail with his team. Those times Kit and Clover spent some quality time together, although Kit could never replace Clover's mom they had become best friends. 

Clover was also growing into more beautiful young lady and Jade had shared his thoughts with Kit that it worried him. Kit knew that Jade was extremely protective over Clover and a small part of her worried how he would be when they would have puppies together. 


"Kit are you okay?" Clover asked one day concerned "You seem a bit different than usual, more glowing or something"

"Do I?" said Kit in response "Well...."

Kit debated wether to tell her or not. She wanted to surprise them both, but she coulnd't hold it in.

"Okay, I think I might be....pregnant" she said, feeling excitement pulse through her.

"REALLY!" Clover nuzzled Kit to congratulate her. "You have to tell dad!" Clover said excited and just few minutes after that they could hear the mail team return, Jade was in the lead like always. Clover pushed Kit towards him "Tell him!" She said and couldn't hide the smile on her face. 

"Tell me what?" Jade asked with a suspicious smile on his face.

"Well, today I went to the vet, since I've been a bit sick lately. And guess what?!" she didn't wait for him to guess "I'm pregnant!"

Jade looked between Kit and Clover, he couldn't believe this. "I'm becoming a dad...again?" He asked before nuzzling Kit affectingly. Kit nodded and Clover smiled. 

"Congratulation dad!" Clover said with a smile. Jade ran to all those in his team and told them the news. Kit and Clover watched him while laughing. 

Someone was watching this happy family moment from the shadows, smirking to himself. Clover could feel as someone was gazing at them and quickly turned around but that someone was gone.

Kit was just so happy. Things were going perfectly, and nothing could seem to foil it. She wondered how many she would have. An image of several puppies running around popped into her mind, and she giggled out loud.

The months wore on and Kit's stomach continued to enlarge. It was rather uncomfortable and Kit had her distressful days, but Jade was very supportive and helpful, making the pain endurable.

When Jade was away on mail runs he left Clover to take care of Kit. 

"What if I won't be a good mother?" Kit suddenly shouted out to Clover. Clover rolled her eyes and couldn't believe that Kit worried so much. 

"Relax you'll be a great mother, you even helped raise me" She said and helped her stand up. "Lets go for a walk in the good weather maybe it will help you get your mind of these things" Clover said and let the way out of the house. Kit was really big and they worried about the count of the puppies, Jade had promised Kit that they would all be okay.

"Isn't this just great?" Clover asked breathing the fresh air, spring was in the air. Kit nodded a bit paranoid. "Don't worry, this is good for you and the pups, you need some fresh air and we won't go far. Maybe dad will arrive soon so we can walk with him home!"

Kit nodded her head, trying to push away her anxiety. Clover was right, there wasn't anything to worry about. Loads of dogs have gotten pregnant, and most of them were just fine. Why should she be any different? Her family history had no birth problems

"Okay" said kit "You're right. So are you excited to be a big sister?"

"I can't wait!" Clover answered happily "I didn't have any siblings before so it always felt a bit lonely" Clover admitted with a sad smile. "But now I can teach them all the things I know!" Clover wagged her tail. Suddenly she heard as someone was walking behind them. She quickly turned around along with Kit, neither of them saw anything. 

"Anyone there?" Clover called but got no answer in return. "She what you've done, you've made paranoid too!" Clover said while laughing and kept on walking.

Kit had felt it too. Even though there hadn't been any real trouble, she sometimes felt followed. She always assumed that she was just overrreacting, but Clover's reaction told her otherwise

"Clover, I think there is someone following us" she was still looking behind her. She tried to detect a scent but it was blurred by other dogs scents from nearby.

Clover noticed a alley close behind them. "Wait here, I'll check it out" Clover whispered. Kit objected to it but Clover reminded her that she was pregnant and shouldn't do it herself. 

"You're close by so it won't be dangerous." Clover said and walked in the direction of the alley. Kit kept a look on Clover as she looked into the alley. Clover didn't see anything and smiled "We're just going crazy!" She shouted over to Kit who gave her a ironic smile. But suddenly something grabbed Clover by her hind leg, something sharp like teeth she yelped and looked around. Sudden flash back came to her. A group of male dogs and one which her memory had kept a good picture of, Jason. 

"HE...." She had already been dragged into the alley and couldn't say a word because some dog stood on her muzzle.

"Clover!" screeched Kit, and despite her condition, she raced forward and plunged into the dark alleyway. Fear gripped her but adrenaline kept her going. The darkness made it hard to see, but she saw two canine figures and she gasped outloud at the sight of a familiar male

"Jason!"

"Hello there" Jason smiled cruelly. Clover tried to fight back but she was still young and couldn't lift of a fully grown male dog. 

"I see you're pregnant, congratulations!" Jason said and walked towards Kit. Kit growled angrily. "We wouldn't want anything to happen to those wonderful bundle of joys, now would we?" Jason was now right in front of Kit. 

"We both know you can't do much now. You look like if I were to push you, you would fall straight down. It's hard to keep up the weight of so many." Jason said took his paw up. Clover whimpered under the other dogs weight. 

"We don't have to hurt all of you. We will make do with the younger female since you don't have just one life with you. Maybe she'll work better than her mother!" Jason smiled.

"If you lay a single paw on her, I'll-..." she struggled to find a threat, but she knew that it was no good. She couldn't take him on, instead she broke down in tears.

"Help us!" she cried instead, trying to make a run for it. If she couldn't fight him, they'd need help instead "Utah! Jade! Anybody!"

"You're getting on my nerves!" Jason growled. "I'll give you one last chance leave and don't talk about this to anyone or I'll make sure you'll never see you puppies alive! I don't have any use for you since you're already carrying puppies." He said and pushed one of his paws down on her stomach. 

Clover was shocked, she finally remembered why Jason had been so angry with her mom. She couldn't carry his puppies

"Okay" whimpered Kit "I'll go. I won't tell anyone I promise" that was a total lie. She had every intention of running for help, but she knew that she had to get away first. She felt so scared for Clover. She couldn't take on someone as terrible and big as Jason.

Jason smiled and gave a signal to one of his followers. "Follow her home, and if she tries some funny business you may stop her in any way you want to." The dog he was talking to gave a quiet chuckle.

Kit didn't know where to go exactly. Jade was probably at the mail office, and if she headed in that direction, then she'll probably get in trouble. The best thing was to just go home. Jade may eventually show up, and her owners were probably there too, so her follower would'nt be allowed anywhere close.
She was still crying softly and she kept praying in her head for Clover. Heaven knows what he was doing to her back there, and she hated how helpless she was. She could see her front porch and couldn't wait to get inside.

Jade had just arrived at Nome. The mail run had been great today, perfect weather for it. He couldn't wait to get home to Kit, it would be soon that their puppies would be born. "Oh man Clover would go insane if she had to handle it on her own with him away" He though to himself before laughing. The team was glad to see him so happy again, he really deserved it.

 The musher had set them all off leash while he took in the mail bags. Jade was surprised, Clover had told him she was going to try and get Kit out of the house so they could walk together home. He looked around but didn't notice anyone. Jade headed in the direction of his house hoping he would meet them on the way, he was early after all.