The male to female ratio was still lopsided however, so it was decided that males would share their women, grouping every three men with one female to ensure all the males had a chance to mate. It had been an effective solution in the beginning. Eventually, however, even the onida failed to breed enough female offspring to sustain their race. Because of that, there was only a handful of their kind left.
From an early age, Gavin, along with his cousins, Heath and Logan, knew that their family’s line would end with them if they were unable to find a mate. All three of them were now in their late thirties and had even considered settling down with “regular” women for companionship in their later years. Now that they’d found this beauty, there was no question of that.
“I know. I never thought we’d find her either, but we did, and we’ll have the rest of our lives to spend with her. I don’t think holding off a bit is asking too much. Let’s ease her into the idea a little at a time.”
Heath raked his hand through his russet hair. “I guess you’re right, but Logan won’t like this. Hell, I’m not sure I like it, but we’ll try it your way for now. One thing that worries me is when she comes to, what if she’s left someone behind, a family that may come looking for her?”
Gavin had thought about that as well, but quickly dismissed the idea, not even wanting to contemplate the prospect of losing her when they’d only just found her. “I don’t think so. When we searched through her car, it looked like she had a lot of her possessions packed up. Either she was going on a very long vacation or relocating. Besides, she’s not wearing a ring on her left ring finger, and there’s no tan line either, so I think we can safely assume she’s unattached.”
“A boyfriend maybe?”
“If she’s not married then she’s ours.”
Heath leaned over the sleeping beauty, skimming his fingers along her arm. She shivered as if responding to his touch. “Zora,” he whispered her name softly.
A smile curved Gavin’s lips at the sound. Since they’d found her identification card with her name, he’d said it over and over again, savoring the word on his tongue. The name sounded sophisticated and sweet at the same time— it was perfect for her. Zora Calloway. “Gorgeous, isn’t she?”
Heath licked his lips, eyeing her with a longing with which Gavin could empathize with. “Being this close to her is driving me insane. Her scent is intoxicating. I think I need to get out of the house for a bit. I haven’t shifted since she’s been here and my bear is getting restless. Wanna join me? I’m sure she’ll be fine for an hour or so.”
Gavin shook his head. “No. When I give her more of the medicine, I’ll need to monitor her carefully to make sure she has no adverse reactions.”
“Okay. When we get back, I’ll take over the watch. You need some rest, cuz.”
“I don’t mind staying by her side.”
“But I do mind you wearing yourself out. You’ll be no use to her then.” Heath straightened, and placed his hand on Gavin’s shoulder. “Promise me you’ll at least take a nap when I get back.”
“Fine, although it’s really not necessary.”
Gavin was thankful Heath didn’t reply.
His cousin gave one last longing look at their mate before heading out, leaving Gavin alone with her once again. Gavin took her hand in his and gave it a light squeeze.
“Soon.”