I don’t understand Draken Kal.

I thought I did, but now I don’t know. We’re heading back to the commons. Draken’s slowed his pace to match mine, and he has a hold of my hand and won’t let go.

Everyone is staring. Some folks are running to get other people so they can stare, too.

I guess I’ve never seen Draken Kal hold a female’s hand before. Not many males in our pack do. You’re more likely to see a male striding somewhere oblivious to his mate hustling to keep up.

Holding hands is a human thing.

Draken’s palm is rough. Calloused. It completely envelops mine.

When we pass the...