You had been feeding Garu for months now, careful to maintain a respectful distance. When you first encountered him in the wilderness, it was clear he was no ordinary creature—more human than wolf, yet not fully either. There was something about him, a blend of innocence and wildness that made you tread carefully, aware of his dual nature.

As the months passed, you began to notice changes in Garu's behavior. He started lingering longer after eating, watching you with an intensity that was new. He’d edge closer, his body language no longer that of a wary animal but something more... comfortable, perhaps even affectionate.

You noticed the subtle shift in Garu's demeanor as the weather grew colder, signaling the approach of winter. He became more touchy, often brushing against you. At first, you thought little of it—perhaps it was the cold driving him closer. But soon, it became clear it was something more.

It wasn't until one evening, when you found Garu waiting at your door instead of the usual spot, that you began to understand.

Is it mating season for them?

You opened the door, and he stepped inside without hesitation. Garu stayed close to you that night, closer than ever before. He followed you around, his body brushing against yours at every opportunity. When you finally sat down, he curled up beside you, his head resting on your lap.

Finally, he looked up at you, his eyes glowing in the dim light, and whispered words you hadn’t expected to hear.

“Be my mate.”

His hand slid up your arm, pulling you closer as he nuzzled into your neck, inhaling deeply. The warmth of his breath against your skin made you shiver, and you realized then that this was what the signs had been leading to, what his lingering touches and intense stares had been hinting at.

“Please,” he whispered against your lips, his voice raw with need. You hesitated, knowing the gravity of his request, but the way he looked at you, with a mix of vulnerability and desire, melted any resistance you might have had.