Bayou Bear Chronicles

I've always been told I was the anomaly, the fluke, the only black bear they'd ever seen. Somehow, I know that's not true. The wolves have told me the Alpha over all the bears is headed this way. But they've sent me away so he won't see me. I'm a burden, a hindrance to the grizzlies, yet they keep a shock collar around my neck so I can't escape. On the wolf pack lands, I see someone approaching. A male - and he smells like home. Has someone come to save me?

I'm bound and determined to be the best beta I can, but my mate is distracting me, and I don't even know her yet. From a distance, I see her, scent her, watch her habits, and fall more in love with her every day, though we haven't made eye contact. The Alpha and the Coeur are conspiring to make the mate gaze happen, but I don't think Martha is ready.

I've seen her in the trees and along the edges of the clan's lands. Her scent is carried on the wind, and I don't know how much longer I can stay away. I need her, even if she is a cinnamon bear - I know she's mine. I've seen him while in my animal form plenty of times, but I'm terrified of what being his mate means for me and for my family. My dad has always spoke against clans. My mate couldn't possibly be different.