The thought of using a wolf for support is one thing. The thought of using a skinny, blonde young man makes a number of things rebel inside Soldat: the people-are-dangerous thing, the manage-on-your-own-or-get-punished thing, the Steve-can't-hold-you-up thing.... They shake their head a little, point. "The cabin's right there. Think I'll be okay."

They do dredge up a smile. "Thanks. You were a lot of help."