I was late. Only 30 minutes but it was enough for the wolves to be on the scent of a lone lamb.
I spotted her as soon as I walked in, her red hair a beacon in the crowded bar. I saw the man standing next to her, leaning in close, saying something in her ear, his muscles on display through a tight T shirt.
I paused to watch. She had never looked more beautiful than she was right then next to that wolf trying to win the greatest prize in the room. I couldn’t blame him. She was stunning. He had chosen well, but he would fail.
I saw her smile at him, then lean in to say something into his ear against the noisy surroundings, her inviting lips moving deliciously, then her green eyes taking in his as she moved away again. I saw her fingers touch her long hair, a sure sign she was enjoying his full attention upon her.
I stayed completely still, but our bond has a depth few get to experience. As she turned her head slightly to hear the man speak into her ear, our eyes met. I gave an almost imperceptibly shake of my head and she turned back to the wolf, absently fingering the delicate pendant she wore around her neck. I did not want to disturb her. A lamb should be free to roam at times.
I approached the bar, standing right behind her, and ordered two drinks. I glanced over at the man who gave me a territorial look of superiority. His prey was out of my league.
I found a table and put my back to them both. Fifteen minutes later she lowered herself into the chair opposite. I did not ask, and she did not explain. It wasn’t necessary. This lamb was mine on a level no wolf could attack, as my initials on the subtle collar she wore around her neck testified.