Her brown hair is freely braided down her back, framing her face. I tried not to sound as I entered the kitchen, but she recognized my aroma.

"Safe travels. Have you been marked?" Jessica asks.

I lowered my head, speechless.

"David should inform you, Susan," Jessica says carefully. But, I wait, "but I doubt he's ready. Know this."

I nod. Yes, but why isn't David ready?

"Marking mates isn't a formality; it occurs spontaneously. Because emotions are strong during sex, most wolves are marked. The mark increases the mating link, allowing you to detect your mate's proximity or danger. ."

"So why am I not marked now? Shouldn't David have...