Samaria let out a heavy breath as she walked through the jungle, the music from the party fading behind her. She tugged a hand through her curls in agitation. There was no avoiding it now- Kaipo was clearly trying to choose her as a mate. He wouldn’t make a display like that in front of everyone and propose to another woman. She could still almost feel the heat of his hands on her bare waist.

Emotionally and physically exhausted, Samaria plopped herself down at the edge of a small spring. Her feet were aching and she dipped them into the cool water, leaning back on her hands. Maybe she could just stay here until the ceremony was over. She could say she was drunk and got lost. The Elders would be furious, but perhaps it would be worth it. Then again, if he didn’t propose to her today, he would tomorrow. Or the next day.

Samaria groaned, her hands lifting to cover her face as her back landed on the jungle floor. Why did she have to be born a woman? The gods had given her a man’s power, so why didn’t they just finish the job? Things would be so much easier. She could just stay single forever, and no one would question her.