Odd One Out
A dark brown wolf is laying on his bed of grass. His eyes are closed and he looks like he is sleeping but he isn't. he is thinking. He barely registers the smell of deer as the hunters return with dinner. His eyes open and ears perk up when he is nudged in the shoulder.
"Mark"
Another brown wolf lays beside him.
"What do you want Tom?" Mark asks, annoyed at being interrupted
"Have you found a mate yet?"
Mark sighs though his nose. Trying not to get angry at his brother.
"I have been asked that many times already, the answer is still no"
"It's because we're worried about you. You know what will happen if you don't find a mate before your birthday"
"I know full well and honestly, I don't care"
Mark is pushed harder in the shoulder making him look at Tom.
"You should care!" Tom growls "We don't want to drive you out but the pack leader made it clear. You must have a mate when you turn 18 or you will be exiled"
Tom shoves him harder and he turns from his stomach to his back. Tom towers over him.
"Fine. I will find a mate. Now stop worrying about me"
Mark shoves Tom off him and turns over. To Tom's annoyance instead of getting up Mark goes back to thinking.
"Mark, what am I to do with you"
Tom sighs and walks away. Mark lays a bit longer before getting up to get some food. While eating, he looks at the females and none of them appeal to him.
'How am I going to find a mate I actually like?'
He finishes the meat and discards the bone. Then with another sigh he returns to his bed of grass to sleep.
'I need peace so I can think'