#courting

He's tried nesting. Making sure you have a nice, comfy place to sleep, guarding you while you rest, taking you anything soft.

You just smile and pat him on the head.

He's tried bringing you resources. Small prey you can easily eat, vegetables safe for your consumption.

You let the prey go and thank him for the 'ingredients'.

He's tried preening himself until he shines, putting herbs in his hair, using crushed minerals to make his face brighter, even lying flat on his back to expose his stomach.

You rub his belly and ask if he's had an eventful day.

Isn't this all the stuff mammals are supposed to need? Isn't this what makes a good mate? Even if you were to reject his advances at least you'd acknowledge him. Gods, it's driving him crazy!

Today, you're chopping more of the resources he's brought you, dropping them into a pot. He can't smell what's cooking, though. The scent of you is enough to knock him over if he allows it.

Your chest is more exposed today. Breaths heavier, eyes softer, body temperature hotter.

You're in heat.

He's missed his window of opportunity.

"Thank you for having dinner with me," you tell him. "It gets lonesome eating by myself."

He looks at the floor. "You won’t be lonesome soon enough. Whoever you've chosen as a mate will keep you company. They are very lucky to have you."

"What?"

"Your mate. The one you've chosen to pair up with."

Your brows flex, cheeks darkening.

"Oh God. Are we not dating? I... that's so embarrassing, I thought we were dating," you mumble.

"Dating?" He cocks his head.

You nod. "You know. The things you do before pairing up."

Lightning claps down his spine.

"You have been courting me?"

"Of course," you say warmly. "That's why I keep touching you and inviting you over. I thought maybe you were just shy or wanting to take things slow."

He closes the space between you. Places a hand at the small of your back. You look up at him through your lashes, chest heaving.

"No." He leans into you. "All I've wanted is for you to notice me."

You grin at him. It makes his knees weak.

"I've noticed you. A lot, actually." Your finger traces the line of his jaw until he shivers. "Enough that I know exactly what I'd do to you if you let me."

Gods be damned.