I watch as Nickolas walks away into the surrounding woods, his broad back and powerful stride a stark contrast to the aching hollowness settling in my chest. I can scarcely believe what just transpired between us, what he said after we just had sex. I know we're not typical mates. That one night of passion doesn't automatically transform us into some fairytale couple. But that doesn't make his words any less like a bullet tearing through my heart.

Tears sting at the backs of my eyes, ...