I forced the tears back before they could spill.
I refused to give them another thing to laugh at.
"You've all misunderstood. The wolf I'm bonding with today is not Fenris Ashclaw."
The crowd laughed again.
One of the wolves pointed at me with open contempt. "Drop the act. Everyone knows you've been waiting around for Fenris like a lovesick fool for three years."
"You're well past your prime. Don't tell me you can't find anyone else, so you're clinging to him instead."
A look of mock realization spread across Fenris's face.
"Briar, if you really can't find a mate, I've got plenty of pack brothers right here. Pick whichever one you like."
He pointed casually at a warrior who was blind in one eye and lame in one leg.
"How about this one?"
"Sure, he lost an eye and a leg, but he fought bravely in the border wars. A decorated wolf. More than good enough for you."
"Fenris, you're a genius. A blind wolf and a fool. A match made under the Moon Goddess!" The laughter was deafening.
"Hey, Grim! How do you like the mate the War Commander picked out for you? Satisfied?"