Morningside Cuesta Hot, Too Hot

Day's heart dropped at Heartha's words, and the emotion behind them. He knew a bit of her story, and truly felt for the woman's loss. She'd gone through terrible, senseless things, and Day wanted badly for her to have the happy ending she was seeking. But another part of him - the part that ran on instinct instead of compassion - was angry that she would even ask these things, after giving her own blessing to Akuti.

"Heartha," he said gently, his eyes flickering to his mate's. "If we had more hunters, things might've been different... but we all agreed that Khoe would whelp this year. We just don't have the resources for another litter. I'm sorry, but my answer is no."

He looked to Sylvas, wondering what the other male would think of this. He didn't take pleasure in denying Heartha this right, and he hoped Sylvas would understand and agree with his reasoning.

"If you come into season when this litter is old enough to hunt, I will support you then," he added.