She met that stubborn wolf in the woods first.
"I'm Marrow." His tail wags gently back and forth.
"I'm busy?" Mara turns away from him.
"You're traveling alone."
She ignores him.
"I heard a rumor a new mother had been chased off into these woods."
Mara stops in her tracks.
"I'm starting a family." He explains. "Me and my mate, would you like to join us? You're strong, we could use a hunter like you."
She'll be damned if the flattery doesn't at least tickle her curiosity. "Wolves rarely bring strangers into their families."
"I do."
Her ears twitch back. "Well I'm afraid I can't help you, stranger. I can't hunt for you while I'm pregnant."
Marrow tilts his head. "We have plenty of room. We can keep you warm, safe and fed while you nest. My mate--he's good with pups."
It's her turn to stare curiously at him. "Why?"
He takes a step closer and blinks, full of warmth. "Because there are too many wolves alone out here when they don't have to be. Because I can."
She can tell he's being sincere. The weight of her travels hangs heavy of her tired limbs. She thinks of her unborn pups. She thinks of her future.
"I'm Mara, lead the way."
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Hunter 
Hunter