When Chris told his friend that he didn't want a mate, he didn't expect to meet his mate anytime soon. But here he is, a human mate to a Vila, and he's not sure what to do about it. He might not have wanted a mate, but he has one now, and being Gary's only chance at bonded happiness is a heavy weight.

Gary only ever wanted to be safe. After losing his clan and being on the run for years, he's found a place to call home, but nightmares plague him. When he meets Chris, he's delighted to have found his mate, but Chris is human and a hunter. Gary has already lost everyone he loves—can he bear to be with Chris when Chris has no plans to stop hunting Kudlaks?

Will Chris have to choose between what he feels is his duty and his mate? Or can Gary accept the way his mate willingly puts himself in danger?