Prologue

Hollyfeather watched Strongheart pad into the forest. He was so handsome. And strong, and loyal, and brave. She wanted to be his mate so badly. But he hardly noticed her!

She sighed and turned away. She felt a slight touch on her hindquarters. She spun around and stared into the amber eyes of Strongheart. Hollyfeather backed up in shock.

"Oh! Strongheart…" she mumbled.

"Hey, Hollyfeather. Why don't you take a walk with me?" he meowed, inclining her head to the forest. Hollyfeather leaned to the right and looked into the green leaves dappled with newleaf sunlight. She straightened and stared into his eyes. His eyes. Slowly, she nodded and followed him into the forest.