The Bite of Minds - Bytarend, #2

Tondbert Payne is running through all the daydreams he's had about meeting his true love. Roses and long walks featured prominently. None of those daydreams had him standing with his back pressed against hers, wild creatures circling them. There'd always been a lot less claws and slavering. He can't see a way out, but there must be one. After all, who's ever heard of doomed young lovers?