A mating hunt

If Alpha Zane noticed her sudden sullenness, he gave no indication. He rose to his feet and stretched out an arm. “Walk with me, Lady Cassy.”

Cassy laughed before placing her small hands in his much bigger ones. “Of course. The chief's castle has the finest gardens...and whatever it is that might interest you.”

"I see," Alpha Zane said and leaned in. "You interest me enough. A little bird chirped to me this morning, and it would seem you have done the Alpha's face a great disservice. How ever might the ladies fawn over his swollen eyes and face now?"

Cassy could hardly hold the rumble of laughter that escaped her lips. "It was a duel. Surely, punches are thrown around in duels," she said, maneuvering smoothly around the halls as the Alpha followed her. "I hear of a time where it was you who painted the Alpha's face in bruises."

Alpha Zane chuckled, stepping up to hold out the door for her as they stepped into the yard. Maidens eyed them as they walked, whispering an