Mating Season Read Online Free

that."
    "Why?"
    "Girly color,” he muttered.
    Shila didn't see why. “It looks like a strip of lean meat.” Drawing it to her nose, she slid it across her upper lip as she inhaled. “And it smells like you."
    Actually, it smelled quite good. Like heat and flesh and his own unique scent. He'd carried it close to his skin.
    "You hungry?” he asked.
    Still holding the ribbon, she returned her attention to the aroma of food. His home was mostly open, not sectioned off, although she could see closed doorways that must lead to other areas. Four long strides carried Koll to the fireplace where he fetched a plate of fish left to warm. Her stomach rumbled as he brought it closer and offered it to her.
    Just as she reached for it, he drew the plate back. “Will you wear my ribbon?"
    "Do I get the fish?” She bared her teeth. It was never wise to come between her and food, no matter what form she wore.
    He chuffed again and handed it over.
    Shila instantly dug in and rumbled in contentment as the flavor hit her tongue. He hadn't pickled or seasoned the fish as some of the clawless people were wont to do. The natural, unpolluted flavor of the meat was delicious.
    She finished the whole fish in three bites. “More please."
    Although Koll didn't say anything, she sensed he was pleased. He hurried to fix her another helping and didn't try to hold back the plate this time. Smart man. He got some for himself and sat to eat with her, proving he had just as hardy an appetite as she did.
    After another few servings, Shila finished with a sigh and patted her belly. It always felt good to be full. Koll removed their dishes before he sat at the corner of the bed again, watching her intently. She realized he was still waiting for an answer. Would she wear his ribbon?
    "What's it for?” she asked, dangling the thin strip of pink from her fingers.
    His dark brows drew together. “You wear it in your hair when you go outside. It's to warn other males that you're taken. Your village doesn't share the custom?"
    "No. Taken?"
    "Mated,” he explained. He looked uncertain now. “If you accept the ribbon, then you agree to stay with me. Here. For the winter.” A beat of silence. “As my mate."
    Shila was confused. “But it's not breeding season. I cannot conceive."
    "No,” he agreed. “I'm drinking the brew to stop conception. The winter is to see if we suit."
    Huh. Shila had never heard of a mating season separate from the breeding season. Then again, she didn't know much about the customs of the clawless. She did like the idea of the ribbon, though. It obviously eliminated fights between males over available females.
    "I'm not one of your villagers,” she pointed out, already thinking over the possibilities.
    A jerk of Koll's shoulder was his only response.
    "Tartok and Cikuq are still after me.” Actually, that was a good reason for her to stay here, since the two males would never think to look for her in a clawless village. But she thought it only fair to warn Koll. “They are very dangerous."
    "So am I,” Koll said, throwing back his shoulders. His tone held no boastfulness, merely fact. “I am strong and skilled in battle, and I know how to defend what's mine. I can protect you."
    His confidence was appealing. Despite knowing what he'd be up against if the brothers tracked her here, Shila couldn't help but believe him. He was willing to fight for her, and he'd already proven he could provide food and shelter. She also couldn't deny the arousal he inspired in her body. Although the bear only mated to create young, the part of her that was woman enjoyed pleasure for pleasure's sake.
    "I would be with you alone?” she asked, just to be sure. “I would not sleep with other males?"
    He gave her that delicious growl again. The sound of it bubbling out of his broad chest made her stomach flutter.
    "You'd be mine,” he announced. “Mine for the whole winter. I'll deal with any male who so much as touches you."
    Oh yes. Koll was strong