Chev's Mate: Chapters 21-25 (Patreon)

Chapter 21

I stare at my phone, unable to stop myself from reading the newest articles. I'm always so weak when it comes to them, but am pleased with the turn they've taken these past few days.

Every time we go out together, there is somehow almost always an article published the next day full of images of us, and slowly they seem to be changing public opinion of our relationship. Despite Chev's begging for me not to look, I most definitely read every damn thing being said about us. It's impossible not to, and the days immediately after my identity was discovered, were incredibly painful to read.

They were quite negative even after Chev's interview, but that doesn't seem to be the case anymore. While the blogs still hate my guts, the women posting in them often referring to me as Chev's baggage, the more prominent news channels are much better.

A small part of me wonders how much of that is Chev's doing, the Shifter seeming to be the type to threaten people who speak poorly about me, but I don't ask.

I like to believe it's because people think we're actually good together.

I feel a cheesy smile spreading over my lips as I look over the most recent photo of us. Chev's always watching me with that corny grin of his, and the more I see it, the more obsessed I grow.

He's not at all what I expected, and with every interaction I'm finding myself even further tied to him. At this point I don't think I could ever be without him, and the mere thought of never seeing him again has me unable to breathe.

"Vanessa?"

I frown and glance in the direction the voice came from. Why is Chev inside my home?

A second later he's peering through the crack of my door, his eye barely visible as he peeks in on me. He stares for a moment before pushing the door open, the action revealing his wide smile.

"Why are you still in bed? You're going to be late." He asks, stepping inside.

I watch his eyes dart all around, the man not at all subtle as he looks everything over. We've fallen into the habit of eating together every evening since I made him dinner last week, but the only time he's been in my bedroom is when he carried me to bed.

Interest is written all over his face as he peers at my dresser, and I resist the urge to laugh when he picks up one of the ceramic birds Charlie put in here for decoration. It's not my personal style, but I have to admit it's a cute blue jay.

Chev glares at it like it's the ugliest thing he's ever seen. He may be unwilling to admit it, but I'm starting to think he has a genuine fear of birds. I said it once as a joke, but given his reaction and the way he glares at my decoration, I'm beginning to believe it.

Who knew such a large, deadly bear could be so afraid of a tiny bird?

"Late for what?" I ask, setting my phone on my lap.

He sets the bird back on my dresser and turns to me, his lips pulled down into a slight frown.

"Work."

Did Chev hit his head again?

"It's a weekend. I don't work today." I comment.

I'm pretty sure he knows this, and glance over his thick hair for any signs of injury. The small bald spots he gave himself when he busted through the wire fencing surrounding the facility are all but impossible to see if you're not actively looking, but when I get close I'm usually able to catch one or two.

They healed nicely, which is good, but I still worry. Our bond does, too, if its near-constant yanking whenever I think about it is any indicator. It seems neither it nor I enjoy Chev being hurt.

"Oh, no…" He breathes, clearing his throat. "I must have forgotten."

If there's anything I've learned from my time with Chev, it's that he's a terrible liar.

He avoids eye contact, but when he finally does make it, I can see his acting clear as day. When I let out a laugh he drops the act altogether and shrugs, not at all apologetic. I'm not upset by it. I've grown quite fond of being around Chev, and was admittedly dreading having to spend an entire day without him.

"Did you miss me that much?" I tease, feeling a bit daring.

Chev absolutely beams before pausing and clearing his throat.

"Yes, of course I did, but I came here for a reason. I have a question." He states, sitting on the edge of my bed before standing and pacing the length of my room. "It's been bothering me all night."

I don't like the sound of that, and I sit up against my headboard as I wait for him to explain. Chev continues to pace, his nervous actions only worsening me worry. Have I upset him? I've tried to be as upfront as possible regarding our relationship and what I can offer, but maybe I misconstrued something.

"Chev?" I prompt, eager for him to get to it.

The suspense is killing me.

He stares at the ground and scuffs his foot along it before sucking in a slow breath and finally meeting my gaze.

"Why haven't you asked to see my bear?"

I blink.

"What?"

"I cleaned him for you and everything days ago, but you haven't asked once to see him." He huffs.

I blink again, and struggle not to smile when he crosses his arms over his chest. His innocent look turns into a glare when he notices my reaction, but I can't help it. Is he pouting?

I've seen him get frustrated with Silas a handful of times, but never have I seen what it looks like when that emotion is directed toward me. His expression is a lot softer, and there's an insecurity behind it he's never had with anybody else.

Do I make him nervous?

The realization has me flushing.

"I don't know." I admit. "It's just not something I thought to ask. I'd love to see your bear if you'd be open to showing me."

When Chev doesn't move I crawl to the edge of the bed. He steps forward to meet me halfway, and I fight the voice in the back of my head telling me to be scared as I rise to my knees and cup his cheeks.

I can tell he shaved this morning, but face is already a bit stubbly. The hair tickles my palms, and I give his cheeks a light scratch in the way I know he likes.

He continues to pout, but does tilt his head slightly so my nails graze the spot on the underside of his chin. I chuckle, and scratch the area just a bit harder before pulling him down. He doesn't hesitate to kiss me, the man eager for it despite his anger.

"Please show me your bear." I whisper against his lips.

I feel his curl, and when I pull away all semblance of his frustration is gone.

He gestures for me to follow him, and I don't hesitate to do precisely that. I never realized how important it was to Chev that I see his bear, and while I've thought about it a few times, I worried it would be impolite to ask and he would show me when he's ready.

It seems that assumption was wrong.

Guilt pours out of me as Chev bounces down the stairs and out my back door, the man moving around my home like it's his own. I've seen an interview before where Aziel made jabs at Chev for how comfortable he grows in places that aren't his, and until now, I always assumed his words to be dramatic.

I don't mind it, though, especially sine Chev is so cautious about not doing anything I might find uncomfortable. He knows my boundaries and doesn't push them, even when I can tell he wants to.

Chev's removing his leathers the second we're outside, the man's surprisingly nimble fingers untying the skirt and tossing aside in record time. I get an excellent glimpse of his butt before he spins and I'm snapping my head back up.

Chev winks, but otherwise doesn't comment on my peeking as he gestures for me to turn around.

"This part is a little gross." He admits.

I can handle gross. I want to see everything, even the things he doesn't think I'll like. I've looked up videos of Shifters transforming between their fur and skin forms before, so I have an idea of what to expect. His bones will break and reform before they shed and grow either skin or fur.

"I want to watch." I state.

Chev looks wary, but after a moment shrugs and hunches.

Oh.

Seeing it online is one thing, but I realize it's completely different when it's happening right before you. Chev's shoulders pop out first, the bones dislocating before his hips shift and he drops to all fours. He releases a quiet groan but doesn't seem to be in much pain.

Mild discomfort, yes, but not nearly anything close to the agony I imagine I'd feel if my body were to break like this. I suppose it's a benefit to being a Shifter, and I wonder if it hurts to snap a bone when it's not for the purpose of transforming.

The transformation is quick, his bones rearranging in mere seconds before the fur begins to grow. I've seen videos where it's practically instantaneous, and am glad Chev is slowing his down so I can truly see how his body is changing.

It's gross like he said it would be, but also strangely fascinating.

I try not to look too shocked when he's finished and I'm met with the sight of a giant bear. He's fucking huge, and bounds up to me with heavy footsteps.

Instinctively I flinch away, but feel awful when all that does is make him whine. Chev plops down on his butt, his legs spread and paws resting on his ankles. He's still just as tall as me in this position, but it feels better when he isn't completely towering over me.

He doesn't move, the man as still as a statue as I shove aside my nerves and approach. His eyes follow my every movement, and the noises that seem to constantly be seeping from his chest burst to life as I reach for him.

I can't help but laugh, finding it endearing.

It's much louder when he's in this form, but the annoyance I see in his eye is comforting. This body may be different, but the man inside is still Chev. He paws at his chest as I run my hand through the fur on his head.

It's soft, and I let myself feel his pointed ears before trailing down his back. I'm practically petting him, but he doesn't seem to mind. I've read that Shifters don't appreciate being treated like household pets, but it's hard not to make comparisons when he's so docile and limp under my touch.

"You're fluffy." I state.

His head bobs.

"And cute." I continue, the words no louder than a whisper.

I want to know how far I can get with him.

Chev huffs and wiggles his body out from underneath my hand. I chuckle and step forward so I can cup his snout. The bond pulsates between us, preventing me from feeling any fear as I manhandle the giant Shifter who could probably kill me with one swipe of his paws.

After a few minutes he stands and straightens his spine, displaying his maximum height. The noises emerging from him deepen as well, and I'm confused by them until I realize he's trying to show me how big he is.

I comb my fingers through the fur on his stomach, continually shocked by how soft it is. I expected his fur to be knotty like most wild animals, but it isn't. It's coarse, but still easy to sift through.

What a surprise.

"Do you want to catch us an animal for lunch?" I ask.

I've been doing a lot of reading online about Shifters, bears specifically, and that seems to be a big thing for them. They pride themselves on catching their food, and especially enjoy doing so for their loved ones. It's a way to provide.

Chev releases what sounds almost like a squawk before spinning and darting into the woods. His body exudes power as he runs, and I watch until he's entirely disappeared from my line of sight.

I press a hand to my forehead. What has my life turned into? I'm not at all upset about it, but I sure am shocked. Seven years ago I was in the Ogre realm being abused and tortured daily by dozens of men, and today I'm in Wrath with a Shifter alpha as a mate.

A Shifter alpha who's currently in the middle of killing an animal for me to eat.

I cup my cheeks and shake my head, still in disbelief as I head back inside my home. I'm willing to bet Chev will be hungry when he returns, and I want to have some food ready for him.

He eats an alarming amount, but I might be able to save some money on my grocery bill if he starts bringing me meat on a regular basis. My lips curl at the thought, and I make a mental note to ask him how he'd feel about that when he returns.

I have a feeling he's going to be more than a little excited.

Chapter 22

“I agree.” I state.

I do not agree, not at all, but I can tell Charlie’s passionate about this and it’s not a hill I’m willing to die on. The budget to revamp the art program is coming from Aziel’s wallet, anyway, so it’s not exactly like I’m in a position to argue it.

The facility is in much better shape now that Charlie’s back, my items approved and implemented much faster than it was when I had to wait around for Aziel to look my proposals over and get back to me.

Charlie is quick, and she has much deeper pockets than Aziel. He always had follow-up questions on cost, but she’s more than happy to spend his money.

It makes me wonder just how wealthy they are, but I don’t want to be rude by asking.

“Have you had a chance to look over the meal plans for next quarter yet?” She asks, changing the subject.

I groan, having completely forgotten about it. One of the facilities in the Elven lands is having some issues with a burst water pipe, and their females are staying here until it gets fixed. I was told it would only be for a few days, a week at most, but two weeks have now passed and the females are still here.

Every time the Elves start to fix it, they discover something else that needs to be updated, and from what I’ve last heard, they’ve decided it would be best to replace the plumbing system entirely. I’m happy they’re being proactive about the issue, but the Wrath facility is small and I’m starting to get complaints from the females about being cramped.

Many were kind enough to open up their private rooms and let an Elven female stay with them, but now they want their space back.

I don’t blame them, but there isn’t anywhere else to put the Elven females.

The liaison in charge of the Shifter facility and the one managing both the Dragon ones said they have some room, and even though I didn’t want to split up any of the females, I think it might come to that.

“I haven’t yet, but I’ll get to it this week.” I state, scanning my desk for the documents Charlie gave me a few days ago.

Charlie always does a great job with the meal plans so I doubt I’ll find any issues, but I still appreciate her asking me to look it over for final approval. I was worried about what working with her would be like, a bit fearful she would circumvent me because of her title and standing within the Wrath kingdom, but that hasn’t been an issue.

“Take as long as you need! I know you’re busy right now.” She urges.

That’s a relief to hear. She glances at her phone with a sigh, and even before saying anything, I know she has to leave. Her males tend to get antsy when she isn’t back when she says she’s going to be, and after her Incubus came storming in here one afternoon when we got to chatting and she was an hour late to return home, she’s been careful about sticking to her word.

Or at least, if she’s going to be late, sending a text to let them know.

When she leaves I return immediately to work, needing to send out a few messages before lunch. The Elves are concerned about the well-being of the females they sent over here, and I’ve taken to sending a daily update to keep them from bursting a blood vessel.

I include some fun photos I took yesterday of the females playing a game of poker after dinner, knowing they’ll enjoy seeing it. The Elven leaders refuse to hire a liaison for their facility, choosing instead to run it themselves, but they’re surprisingly responsive even without the dedicated support.

I’ve just sent the message when my office door bursts open, my oversized mate not even bothering to knock as he comes storming inside. He’s just as cheery as he was this morning when he dropped me off, and I have a feeling is going to be exactly the same when he picks me up later this evening.

Sometimes I wonder how he gets any work done when he’s constantly running between the Wrath manor and the facility, but whenever I ask, he just winks and says he has his ways. I’m starting to think he’s struggling to keep up with everything and is lying for my benefit, but I doubt he’d give me an honest answer even if I came right out and asked.

Lately, thoughts of moving to the Shifter realm have crossed my mind, but I’m yet to voice them.

I’d hate to get Chev excited for something I’m still unsure of.

I know he’s been putting in a lot of work to update his home to my liking, which I so appreciate, but the thought of living with him is still a bit frightening. If I’ve learned anything from my time with the Ogres, it’s that men are different in public than they are behind closed doors.

When I was taken out, I was covered in jewelry and told to act in love with the males who owned me, but in private I slept on a wooden pallet in a mouse-infested basement.

The bond burns whenever I find myself fearing my possible future with Chev, but even that hasn’t been enough to persuade me to make the leap.

“Can I see your breasts?” Chev asks, kicking my office door shut.

“What?” I snort.

Is he serious? He smirks and toys with the hem of his leathers, messing with them just enough that they rise and I can see the bottom of his mate mark. He’s always trying to tease me with it, the man acting like a sultry whore whenever we’re alone and he’s wearing his leathers.

His mark is completely black now, the thick ring around his thigh fully darkened.

I love the look of it, and find myself leaning forward as it enters my line of sight.

“Your breasts.” Chev breathes, refusing to lift his skirt any higher.

A part of me wants to play coy and see what he’ll do if I refuse, but the larger part wants to see his mated mark wins out as I reach for the bottom of my shirt. Chev rocks back on his heels as I pull it over my head, and I lock eyes with him as I reach behind myself to unclasp my bra.

His attention quickly lowers to my chest, the man staring like this is the most exciting thing he’s ever seen. It feels good knowing how badly he lusts after me, and it feels even better knowing I’m the only female he’ll ever feel this way about.

I’m his mate, and Chev’s been nothing but honorable toward our bond.

When my bra drops he lifts his leathers the rest of the way, finally exposing the black marking. I scan it, still happy with how dark it has grown these past few weeks. Mine has grown, too, the thin line trailing all the way down my spine to the bottom of my shoulders.

“Beautiful,” Chev compliments.

His length twitches between his thighs, his body reacting to me, but he drops his skirt and turns away before we can get carried away. He already licked my mark this morning, and when he decided to begin visiting me during my lunch breaks, I made it clear I didn’t want him trying anything in my office.

I’m pretty sure my statement nearly brought him to tears, but he hasn’t tried anything other than the occasional request to see my boobs.

I put my bra and shirt back on while he watches, and only once my goods are covered does he finally turn away and get to work readying the food he brought us. I was so distracted I didn’t even notice he carried in a bag, but he seems pretty eager about it as he pulls out a giant container of cooked meat and brings it to my desk.

There doesn’t seem to be much seasoning on it, but I don’t mind. Given how he grins and nudges it in my direction, I know he caught and cooked this himself, and that excitement overshadows any hesitance I might have over eating bland meat.

I’d eat it every day of the week if it made Chev happy.

“Do you like it?” He blurts the second I slip a piece between my lips.

My lips twitch as I nod and chew, and Chev waits patiently until I’ve swallowed to try some himself. It’s polite, but I have a feeling the man snuck more than a few bites while he was cooking. He’s able to eat meat raw, and I’ve seen him taking advantage of that more than a few times.

“How’s your day going?” I ask, gesturing for him to sit.

The chair creaks as he lowers himself into it, the wicker struggling to hold his weight. I should invest in some sturdier furniture if he’s going to make a habit of coming here. The items I selected are cute and can easily support the weight of myself and the other females in the facility, but Chev’s too big.

Now I understand why the Shifters choose to make everything out of wood.

“It’s good! I have to go to the office after lunch for a meeting with Echo and a few others on the leadership team, but I’ll be back in time to take you home.” He states.

I laugh, not at all worried about him being late to pick me up.

If there was any word I’d use to describe Chev, it would be punctual.

“What’re you meeting about?” I pry.

Chev shoves a piece of meat in his mouth and straightens up. I like the look of his excitement, and watch happily as he rushes to finish chewing so he can speak.

“We’re deciding who’s to take my place at the Seekers organization.” He explains.

Despite how casually he says the words, they still render me silent. What? Are they firing Chev? I know he’s been stretched a bit thin recently and had a bout of bad press after we met, but I never imagined it would lead to this.

I shake my head and set down my fork, still struggling to wrap my mind around what he’s just said.

“You’re leaving?” I ask, eager to clarify.

Chev nods and shoves another large piece of meat into his mouth. His eyebrows furrow as he chews, and after a second his cheeks turn red and he pulls a bone out from between his lips.

Usually I’d tease him for it, loving when I make his skin change color, but instead I try to blink away tears. This is my fault. He’s being fired because of me.

“I’m so sorry.” I blurt, wincing as my voice cracks.

Chev stills, a look of panic taking over his features as he takes notice of my current state.

“Don’t cry, my mate. This is expected. My role was only ever meant to be temporary. I have an entire pack to manage, and now that I have my mate, I have other ways I want to fill my time. I don’t enjoy having to work so much anymore.” He assures, rushing around my desk to pull me into his arms.

He smells good, and urges me to shove my face into the crook of his neck as he practically yanks me out of my chair and onto his lap.

“I’m excited to leave, and have been working hard to find a suitable replacement.” He continues, running his hand down my spine. “Don’t be sad. I will continue my work if it pleases you.”

I wipe my tears with the back of my hand as his words process.

“They aren’t firing you?”

He shakes his head.

“No. I’ve requested to leave.” He promises, placing his lips on my temple. “My father hurt his back chopping wood for me last week. He’s okay and healed quickly, but it’s unfair of me to continue pushing my responsibilities aside. There are many who would do an excellent job leading the Seekers, and I am no longer doing them justice.”

I feel my muscles relaxing when his chest begins to vibrate underneath me, his bear doing its best to comfort.

It makes me feel better to know he’s not being fired and this was his choice, but I still feel awful for my role in his decision. Chev has always seemed to love his work, and over the years has been very vocal about all his ambitions toward making the Seekers a reputable name that females learn to associate with safety and protection.

Our bond tells me he’s not lying, the warmth it’s shoving into my chest and bones assurance of that.

“Don’t cry, my strudel.” He whispers.

I curl my fingers into his shoulders and pull away. He grins at me, his eyes crinkled with worry even as his lips try to show comfort.

“Your strudel?” I ask.

He nods and cups the back of my head, his clammy palms no doubt knotting my hair.

“Charlie told me it’s a human endearment.” He explains, pulling me further onto his lap. “Is it not?”

This isn’t the first time Charlie’s given him random Human words and told him they are compliments to pay me, but this is by far the most unique one. I’ve never had a strudel before, but I know they’re some kind of pastry.

I’m surprised Chev hasn’t learned yet to stop believing what Charlie tells him.

“It is.” I lie.

Chev nods, and ducks to press his lips to mine before carefully standing and setting me back in my chair. He doesn’t step away for a long while, the man insisting he wait until my tears have all dried up.

He repeats what he’s already said, but this time emphasizes that he’s happy to leave and is excited to have time back he can dedicate to his pack and his family. His eyes momentarily dip to my belly when he says the last part, but I pretend not to notice.

Eventually he convinces me that I have nothing to feel bad about, and we shift the conversation to something lighter for the remainder of my lunch.

I make him promise to stop by after his meeting to fill me in, which he's more than happy to agree to, and when he packs up the leftover meat and complains that he has to leave now, I feel much better.

He pauses at the door, and I offer what I hope is an encouraging smile as he turns back to look at me.

“My strudel.” He breathes, giving me one last nod.

His strudel.

Chapter 23

"Can I help you?" I laugh, glancing at the giant Shifter hovering in my office doorway.

Chev crosses his arms over his chest, the action causing the muscles to bulge and steal my attention. I'm sure he's doing it on purpose, the man loving when I admire him.

I'd bet money that he has some sort of praise kink.

I clear my throat and shake my head the moment that thought filters through my mind. Bad, Vanessa. Bad!

"I find it very rude that you waited until I decided to exit my position to start coming into the office." He pouts.

I realize I'm doing a poor job hiding my smile when he raises a brow and leans against the door frame. If I had a choice, I'd still be working from my office in the Wrath facility, but I decided to turn the space into a makeshift bedroom for two females from the Elven facility.

The damn Elves just about had a heart attack when I told them I was debating sending a few of their females to the Shifter and Dragon realms to stay until their pipes are fixed, and after much, much arguing, I ended up without an office and the promise that they'll have everything completed next week.

I'm hoping that's true.

It's inconvenient having to use the portal to go back and forth between the Wrath facility and my office in the Seekers facility.

Chev practically fell out of his chair the first time I came through it, the man more than a little shocked to see me popping out of the portal just outside his office door. If his near-constant interruptions are anything to go by, I think he enjoys having me nearby when he's working.

I don't mind his visits, but I doubt he's getting much work done.

Still, everybody here seems glad he's regularly working out of the office again, and Echo's gone as far as to try and persuade me to remain here until his transition is completed next month. From the sounds of it, Chev's been slacking a lot more than he let on, the man hardly ever coming in and when he does, it's usually only to yell at Echo.

He's been trying to do everything out of Wrath, but I guess it's hard to focus and get work done when surrounded by the Wrath trio and their children. I've heard more than a few stories of him having to cut a meeting short because one of them came in crying after their parents told them no.

It seems the children have a soft spot for Chev, especially since the Shifter bends over backward to give them whatever they want. He's not afraid of angering Aziel like most others, and has no problems going directly against whatever precedent or rule the man has made for his children.

I kind of like it.

Hearing people talk about how good he is with children is comforting, and has very inappropriate feelings stirring within me. The bond urges me to lay down and ask him to put children inside me, and has been getting more aggressive with its pushing.

It doesn't seem to have the same reservations toward sex that I do, and is doing a surprisingly good job calming my fears whenever Chev and I are intimate.

Already we've done so much more than I would've ever thought possible. It makes me hopeful for our future, and I hope it does the same for Chev.

"Do you want to get lunch with me?" He asks.

I purse my lips and glance at the clock.

"It's not even ten yet." I chuckle.

Chev shrugs.

"Well, do you want to go with me in a few hours?" He corrects himself.

"I'd love to."

I have a feeling he walked here just to see me and then proceeded to blurt out the first thing that came to mind, but I won't embarrass him by questioning it. Not that he'd be embarrassed in the first place.

Chev doesn't exactly have shame, the man more than a little upfront with his wants and desires. He doesn't care if they aren't popular or if he's the only one that feels them.

It's another thing I admire about him.

"Would you like to sit in my office with me? I can have a desk brought in for you and we can share." He continues, pushing off the doorway.

I grin as he continues forward until he's directly on the other side of my desk. He reaches out and trails his fingertips across the surface, his movements surprisingly smooth. Since he's so large, a part of me always expects him to be clunky, but he seldom is.

Despite how awkward his words often are, the way he physically moves never is.

Licking my lips, I trail my eyes over his leathers. How many pairs does he have? He's always got new ones on, and hardly ever seems to care about getting the ones he's wearing messy.

"I don't think we would get much work done if we shared an office." I state.

Chev's lips twitch, and only once I repeat the words in my head do I realize how they can be taken. I'm sure he knows I didn't mean it sexually, and I don't bother trying to correct myself. If we're honest, that's probably a significant reason why we wouldn't get work done.

My Shifter is awfully distracting, and I feel like I can never get work done when he's close by. If he's not trying to start a conversation, I am, and the few times we aren't talking, it's only because we're staring.

"Do you think the pull of our bond will ever lessen?" I ask.

Chev physically recoils.

"Why would you ask that?" He breathes, taking a step back from my desk. "Do you want it to?"

The bond burns as I shake my head, desperate to assure him that's not the case. I like the feeling of it, but I wonder if it will eventually begin to settle as we grow more comfortable with one another.

I've not spent much time with mated pairs, and I don't have a lot of experience with what things are like for them. Obviously I know it will always be there, but will I always be so distracted whenever Chev's in the room? Will we reach a point where it's comfortable rather than all-consuming?

Chev continues to look on edge as I share that with him, but relaxes when I point out that while he grew up in the Shifter lands surrounded by adult mated pairs, I didn't. I was taken from my parents when I was still a child, and the Ogres don't have mates.

"I will always be your mate." He eventually states.

I nod.

"I know that." I promise.

Chev blows out a low breath and shrugs.

"The bond will never become less intense. We will learn to grow comfortable with it." He finally answers. "But I will make sure you never become too complacent. I will keep you aching for me for the rest of our lives."

I blink before giving a short nod. He's unhappy with this line of questioning, so I'll drop it. I think it's a fairly reasonable thing to ask, but I know the Shifters have a very passionate culture surrounding their bonds and this is very clearly going against some unspoken rule of theirs.

Our bond between us continues to burn, the pain a sign that Chev's still upset over my question. He plasters a soft smile on his lips, but I can easily tell it's fake.

"I'll always ache for you, Chev." I promise.

The burn lessens, and with a low sigh I stand and round my desk. Chev doesn't hesitate to open his arms and pull me into a hug, and I bury my face in his neck the way I know he likes. Despite how complicated I sometimes feel he is, at his core, he easy.

He just wants to be loved.

So do I.

"Would you like to see my boobs?"

Chev squeezes me so hard it's borderline painful, and the burning of our bond disappears instantaneously when he pushes me back to arm's length and lowers his gaze to my chest. He's like a child waiting for candy, and continues to stare as I pull my shirt over my head and unclasp my bra.

I'll never understand the male desire for breasts, and hold back a laugh as he cups and gives them a little squeeze. His smile as he does so is infectious, and I laugh as he spreads his fingers and tries to hold as much as he can in his hands.

"These are my favorite." He sighs, tracing the red line imprinted on my skin from the band of my bra. "Does it hurt?"

I shake my head.

"It's uncomfortable, but they help take the pressure off my back." I state, snorting as Chev replicates the lift of my bra with his hands.

"If you'd like, I can be your bra." He offers.

He looks at me with earnest, wide eyes, and I feel only slightly bad for how I snort and swat away his hands. He playfully resists, giving me a few more caresses, before stepping back and placing ample space between us.

I've noticed how he's always doing that, physically removing the entirety of himself from me whenever I ask him to stop. I appreciate it more than he knows, and I hide a smile as I put on my bra and slip my shirt over my head.

It means so much to me how much effort he puts into ensuring I always feel comfortable around him. The more time I spend around him, the more I've been noticing, and each damn thing seems to be slowly chipping away at the protective barrier I've built around my heart.

For a long time I've been the only person I can rely on, the only person who I knew had my best interests at heart, but Chev's making it known that he's also there.

I have a feeling this man would throw himself into a fire and die for me if it came down to it.

I have a feeling I would do the same.

"So, is that a yes to moving into my office?" He asks, returning to our earlier conversation.

I hum, debating it as I glance down at his leathers. He's hard, and I grimace as I see the fabric lifting around his length. That can't be comfortable.

"We really shouldn't." I sigh.

"I won't bother you." He pleads, lifting his skirt to show his mated mark.

He gives me a sly look as he teases the black line, the man once again trying to tempt me with it. I don't have the heart to tell him that, while I love seeing his mark, it's not nearly as alluring as he seems to think. At first it was, without a doubt, but now not so much.

I love his excitement whenever he does it too much to say anything, though.

Plus, it's the easiest way to know when he truly wants me to do something. I've grown to live by the rule of thumb: if Chev's trying to seduce me with his mark, he really wants me to say yes.

"I'll do it under one condition." I decide, resisting the urge to bounce as I come up with the perfect response.

Chev nods so fast I'm surprised he doesn't give himself a headache.

"Anything." He promises.

"I'd like to see your home."

For a long moment Chev stares, his eyes wide with shock. I've never asked to see the Shifter lands before, but I can tell by the way he's always bragging about the large trees and changes he's been making to his home that he's really excited about it.

He's been keeping me updated on the progress of renovating the kitchen, and it sounds like he's just about finished with it. He's said the exterior walls are completed, and all that's left to do is build in the center island and back up the cabinets.

I worry I've read him wrong when he doesn't immediately answer, but when he steps forward and swoops me into his arms, I know I haven't.

"I would be honored, my mate." He grunts, lifting me in the air.

I squeal as my feet dangle off the ground, and Chev twists me side to side before setting me back down.

"I'll carry your desk." He laughs, spinning and clearing the surface.

Oh. I didn't realize he intended to move me into his office now. For a brief moment I debate telling him we can wait and do it later, but instead I find myself helping him to clear everything off. He doesn't even bother emptying the drawers before picking up the entire thing.

Fuck.

Chev is strong.

He easily holds it above his head as he storms down the full hallways toward his office. Everybody knows I'm his mate at this point, but they still stop and stare when they see him carrying a desk half his size ad me following behind with my computer clutched tightly to my chest.

Echo is one of them, and doesn't bother trying to stifle her cackles as she loudly teases Chev in front of everybody. He only grunts before calling her a hairless bear and kicking his foot in her direction.

She storms away after the insult, and I resist the urge to roll my eyes as Chev smiles at her retreating figure and continues his journey. Those two are constantly arguing, and I can't even begin to imagine how annoying it must have been for their parents when they were still living at home.

When we enter Chev's office, I realize he already moved all his items to the side, the man having cleared space for me before even asking me to share the room with him.

"A bit presumptuous, don't you think?" I tease.

Chev only shrugs.

"I gave you the good side." He promises, gesturing to the large window to the left of my desk. "And at eleven every morning, the sun should shine directly over your breasts."

I set my computer on the desk with a roll of my eyes.

"For fucks sake, Chev."

Chapter 24

Sharing an office with Chev is the worst decision I’ve ever made.

He doesn’t even bother pretending he’s not staring at me, and is getting unnecessarily aggressive whenever somebody uses the portal outside his office. The door is glass so shutting it doesn’t help, and I’m going to go crazy if I get pulled out of my thoughts by him abruptly standing every time somebody comes walking through the blue haze.

“That’s enough!” I hiss when the loud squeak of his chair makes its way to my ears.

Chev snaps his face toward mine.

“No.”

This time it’s me who is shocked.

I don’t think Chev has ever told me no before, and I don’t exactly know how to react to it. He doesn’t back down, the man ignoring me entirely as he stalks toward the door to see who just entered.

I’m going to fucking scream.

When he sees that it’s just a random employee, as it is every single fucking time, he relaxes and returns to his desk. I watch the entire thing, my anger continuing to build. I appreciate his concern and need to protect me, but this is getting out of hand.

“I think it might be good for me to return to my own office.” I quietly state.

Chev doesn’t even look in my direction.

“No.”

He’s really on a roll with that word today.

“Excuse me?” I breathe.

If I want to return to my office, I very well have the right to. Chev can’t just force me to work out of his, especially considering how weird he’s being about it. I’m too busy for him to be this continually distracting.

Just because he’s leaving his job doesn’t mean I am, and I have an entire facility to keep running. Chev being best buds with Aziel doesn’t mean I get, or want, any special treatment, and I can’t just slack around.

I have a responsibility to the females.

“You will work here.” Chev doubles down.

I close my laptop screen and suck in a slow breath. Stay calm, Vanessa. Stay calm.

“I don’t think you’re in a place to decide that.”

“Yes, I am.”

I don’t know if he woke up on the wrong side of the bed or what, but Chev’s in a fucking mood today. We made plans for me to finally go to the Shifter realm with him over lunch, and maybe that’s making him antsy.

I know he’s excited about it.

“Oh? How so?” I retort.

Chev shuts his laptop screen, copying me, and turns entirely to face me. His head cocks slightly to the side as he scans me, his gaze not evoking any of the fear it once did even when it’s poorly hiding his anger. Despite how mad he gets, I know Chev won’t hurt me.

“You can’t carry your desk yourself, and unless you want to work off the floor, you will stay in here with me.”

He speaks to me like I’m a child, and I resist the urge to throw something at him and show just how childish I can be.

“There are plenty of other offices I can go to, and plenty of strong men who I’m sure would be more than happy to carry my things back for me.” I hiss, knowing I shouldn’t be purposefully riling him up but unable to stop.

Maybe I’m in a bit of a mood today, too.

“I will crush any male you try to bring into our space.” He huffs.

Oh.

“I’ll crush you.” I threaten.

Chev’s laugh is belly deep, and after a second I can’t help it and join in. My tense muscles relax, and after a few more deep breaths, I return to my work. It only lasts a few minutes before I spot the light signaling somebody’s coming through the portal, and when I glance at Chev, I notice he’s already watching me.

The muscle in his jaw twitches, and I can tell it’s killing him inside as he remains seated and doesn’t check to see or threaten whoever has just arrived.

I can’t hide my smile, even though I know it’s only further aggravating him.

A few more hours pass in comfortable silence. Chev only manages to refrain from checking about half the time, but he’s careful to sneak quietly so he’s not too distracting. It only helps a bit, but it’s more than I thought he’d be able to do, so I don’t complain.

I can tell the time for our lunch date has arrived when I’m pulled from work by a shadow looming over me. Chev stands on the other side of my desk with a grin, and practically carries me to the portal in his excitement.

I feel something similar, and happily follow him to the Shifter realm.

A small part of me is still scared about the possibility of his demeanor changing when I’m trapped in his realm, but I shove that fear aside. Chev has been nothing but good to me, and if he feels the bond the same way I do, then I know he won’t hurt me.

I can’t even imagine causing him pain.

It takes me a second to catch my bearings when we step through the portal, but immediately I can feel the forest. My affinity is strong here, and the energy that seeps from the trees is more than I’ve ever encountered before.

It’s amazing.

Tears fill my eyes as I look around, and Chev rubs my back as he watches.

His chest begins vibrating after a few moments, the bear inside him happy with my reaction to his land. The bear and I have become quite acquainted with one another these past few weeks, the oversized animal bringing me a new dead animal practically every morning.

It’s as endearing as it is gross.

Chev’s taken to skinning them for me, which is a huge help, but there’s something about knowing the poor thing was alive only hours before that tugs my heart every time. I’ll take that secret to my grave, though.

It means too much to Chev for me to ruin it by voicing my complaints.

He takes my hand and gives it a gentle squeeze before leading me through the woods. We stumble upon a path pretty quickly, and it’s only a short ten-minute walk before we’re coming up on a home. It’s cute, and hundreds of tiny flowers sprout along the surrounding ground.

They’re colorful and delicate, and I can tell immediately that this is Chev’s home.

It’s a cumulation of things that give it away, ranging from how he quickens his steps and glances nervously down at me to the odd feeling of comfort that pulsates through the bond when I spot it.

“Your home is beautiful.” I compliment.

Chev clears his throat.

“Our home.” He corrects.

I’m sure my cheeks are more than a little red as I nod and let him lead me inside. I’m sure he’s hoping this will lead to me agreeing to move in with him, even if he hasn’t come outright and said it. He can’t live in Wrath forever, and he will need to move back to the Shifter lands at some point.

When he pushes open the front door, I suck in a slow breath and step inside. A small entryway leads almost immediately into the living room, and I hesitate before kicking off my shoes.

Chev copies me, and closes the door before placing a soft hand on my back and urging me to enter further.

“I built the living space to be pretty open.” He states, gesturing around.

Once I leave the entryway I notice that the living room opens up, and to the right is a kitchen and dining area. It’s spacious but still cozy, and I feel my chest warming as I notice all the tiny seedlings he’s decorated the space with.

Across from the couch is a small fire pit, and two floor-to-ceiling bookcases surround it. They’re already pretty filled which I find surprising. I didn’t realize Chev was a reader.

The dining area is pretty simple, with a large wooden table in the center and a cabinet built into the far wall. I can’t see what’s inside, but I assume it’s full of dishes or other dining items.

“The island is going to go here.” He explains, walking into the kitchen area.

I follow, a cheesy smile working its way to my lips as I take everything in. It’s large, and on one of the counters sits about fifteen different paint swatches and a small handful of backsplash tiles. Chev rocks on his heels when I return my gaze to him, and clasps his hands behind his back as he watches my reaction.

“I love it.” I admit.

His shoulders soften, and with a happy nod he leads me down the small hallway connected to the living room. His steps slow as we pass the first closed door, but after a second he ignores it and continues forward.

I pause, curious about his reaction.

Before I can overthink about it and change my mind, I turn and push open the door. It’s a bedroom, and I crane my neck to peer inside and see if I can discover why he was being weird about it. There’s a neatly made bed in the center of the room, the dark green sheets very fitting for the earthy feel of his home, and across from it is a dresser and two double doors that I assume lead to a closet.

“That’s where I sleep.” Chev states, coming up being me.

His front presses against my back before his hands land on my hips, and I lean back against him with a content sigh. Our bond hums, always happy when my mate is holding me.

“You weren’t going to show me?” I pry.

I feel him shrug.

“I didn’t want you to think I was putting on a move.” He explains, the words warming my heart.

That’s very considerate of him, even if it’s unnecessary. Chev isn’t exactly sneaky when he’s trying to be intimate, the man much too upfront and brash. Even when he tries to be sly, his intentions are transparent.

“I want to show you the bathroom and all the products I’ve purchased for you.” He whispers.

The products he’s purchased me? I don’t need to hear that twice, and happily back out of the room before following him a bit further down the hall. The bathroom is larger than I thought it would be, but I suppose it makes sense.

Shifters are large, and probably need a lot of room to move around in order to be comfortable.

To the left of the door is a giant walk-in shower, and I stare at the glass doors with awe before spinning toward the shelving Chev hurries over to. He pulls open the door and gestures inside, and I stare blankly for a long moment before sucking in a deep breath.

That’s sure a lot of things.

Almost everything I think I could ever need is sitting inside, and with a low hum I realize Chev even organized them. There are several cute bins, and under closer inspection, I realize they’re filled with different types of hair accessories.

Chev happily walks me through everything he’s bought, the man proud of his little collection.

I can’t bring myself to do anything more than stare, and once he’s finished I rush forward and wrap my arms around his waist. He’s quick to return the hug, and I feel his lips grazing the top of my forehead before I tilt my head up and kiss him properly.

What have I done to deserve this man?

His arms tighten around me as I slip my tongue into his mouth, but Chev plays nice and lets me take the lead.

I never in a million years thought this is how my life would turn out, and when I grab Chev’s biceps and lightly push him up against the wall, he doesn’t try to stop me. I know Shifters like to be dominant, but Chev happily hands it over to me.

A low moan slips from his lips when I slide my fingers down his torso, but he keeps his hands pressed firmly against his sides. I appreciate it, and dip my fingers into the muscles lining his torso. They flex underneath my hands, and his leathers shift as his body reacts to my touch.

“Would you like to put your mouth on me?” I whisper.

Chev nods and reaches for my neck, but I move my head out the way before he makes contact.

“Not on my neck.” I clarify. I clear my throat before continuing. “I mean, on my sex.”

It’s not something the Ogres did, and I think if Chev did it, it might not be too bad. The bond helps to prevent any destructive feelings from slipping into my consciousness, and I know he would make it pleasurable.

“I can’t promise I’ll like it, but I want to try.” I state.

I stare at Chev’s chest, too embarrassed to make eye contact, but I don’t fight him when he places a finger under my chin and tilts my head back. He runs his thumb over my lip a second later, and I release a silent breath onto it.

“I would be honored, my mate.” He whispers.

A second later I’m being picked up and carried to his bedroom, and when he sets me gently on the bed, I’m surprised to see him throw himself onto his back.

“You will be in charge.” He explains in response to my confused expression. “I will lay on my back and keep my hands to myself. You can sit on top and use my mouth however you please.”

Chapter 25

Chev doesn't bother hiding his excitement as he licks his lips and stares up at me. His hair is sprawled out underneath his head, the brown curls messy from all his sudden movements.

I eye them as I work up the courage to look him in the eye.

It takes a minute or two, but Chev is as patient as ever and doesn't push. Instead, he fills the time by playing with my fingers. My hand feels small within his, especially when he holds and squeezes my palm between his thumb and pointer finger.

My pulse is racing at least a million miles a minute, but it's not due to fear.

There is a bit of that, yes, but it's my nerves that are getting the best of me. What if I put myself on his tongue and find that I don't like it? What if Chev doesn't like it?

He's a kind man, and I know he'd lie to save me from embarrassment, but the worry is still there.

He releases me when I pull my hand away, and I slide it to his belly and press down. His skin is warm, always is, and I hold back a shiver as his muscles flex underneath me.

If I look down any further, I know I'll find that his leathers are tented. If there's anything I'm sure of, it's Chev's desire for me. He's not been sly in his eagerness, and even though I was wary of it at first, now I crave it.

I love the way he burns for me.

All signs of the happy, laid-back man I've grown accustomed to are gone when I finally work up the courage to look him in the eye. Chev's face has grown serious, his lips pulled tight and eyes narrowed as he stares at where my fingers linger on his lower abdomen. The column of his throat bobs as he gulps, and I hold back a smile as I trail my fingertips over his hip.

I'm surprising even myself with my show of confidence, and refuse to let myself feel scared as I untie and pull open his leathers.

Even if Chev finds the taste of me offputting, I think he'll still find pleasure in making me feel good.

Chev's manhood lies heavy on his stomach, and I stare at the hard length as it twitches against him. He's a large male in all areas, and I let the side of my pinky graze him as I trail my hand back up his abdomen.

"Fuck," Chev hisses the moment we make contact.

His abs flex and his cock gives another twitch, but otherwise, he remains still.

This male is beyond beautiful, and I take pride in knowing he's all mine. His heart is mine, his soul is mine, and his body is mine. Mine.

I continue to admire his bare form as I reach down and tug off my shorts. There's quite a bit of awkward shuffling, but Chev hardly seems to notice as he watches my every movement through half-shut eyes.

His breathing is rougher now, the man practically panting as I get to work removing my clothing.

He lets another curse slip from his lips when I'm entirely naked, and when I throw my leg over his torso and sit on his chest, he moans.

"You smell so fucking good." He breathes, craning his neck to try and peer between my thighs. "I can't wait to have my tongue on you. I can't wait to taste you."

I curl my fingers into his shoulders and squeeze my thighs harder around his torso. His words are low and throaty, and I can practically feel his desire for me through them.

When I lift to my knees and move to shuffle over his face, his hands land on my hips to prevent me from making contact with his lips. I peer down between my thighs and lock eyes with a man who looks pained.

He licks his lips and glances between me and my sex before speaking.

"I'm honored you're trusting me so much with this. If you decide you don't like it, I'll still be honored that you were willing to try. Please don't force yourself to do something you don't enjoy because you think I want it. I'll be able to figure it out, and will be very disappointed." He continues.

His words are solemn, but he fixes the mood by giving my hips a teasing pinch as he removes his hands from my body. He shifts as he shoves them under his back, pinning his arms so he doesn't accidentally touch me.

I can't even begin to express how much his effort means to me.

I've never done anything like this before, and I scoot forward until my knees are on either side of his head. Chev giggles, his lips pulling into a wide smile, and I have a feeling if I were to look behind me, I'd see his toes wiggling.

Grabbing his headboard, I use it for stability as I spread my thighs and lower myself onto his mouth.

I freeze the moment I feel his lips on me, my body rigid, before the bond urges me to relax and I'm lowering just a bit more.

Chev doesn't move, and holds his lips still as I press my slit against them.

I shut my eyes and spread my thighs further, and curl my fingers into the wooden headboard as I feel his lips open against me.

His hot breath has me clenching, the feeling foreign.

It's been so long since anybody but myself has touched my sex, and my body doesn't know how to react. My memories and trauma are ready for me to be disgusted, but the bond has other thoughts. It grows warm and makes my body tingle, and after a few seconds, it has me desperate for more.

Chev continues to breathe, the man's patience reaching heights even I don't think I could go.

"Chev," I eventually whine.

His pupils expand, and I watch them roll back slightly before he finally lets his tongue out from behind his teeth.

I jolt the moment it makes contact with me, the warm, wet muscle shocking. Chev continues, and I drop my head to my chest as I feel him ease his tongue between my folds. He licks the entirety of my slit, low moans slipping from his lips the entire time.

It feels amazing, even better than when he licks my mark, and I let a whispered curse emerge from my throat when Chev finds my clit and flicks the tip of his tongue over it.

It feels good, and I lower myself a bit more so he doesn't have to crane his neck to reach me. He moans when I press myself against his tongue, the low noise vibrating against my thighs. I've never experienced anything like this before, and I drop my forehead against the headboard with a gasp.

Chev looks filthy between my thighs, his lips and face wet as he licks roughly between my folds. His eyes lock with mine as he pleasures me, and I have to shut my lids when the sight of it becomes too much.

He continues to moan, and I rock against him as the fire in my abdomen grows. Our bond loves this, and I'm pretty sure my chest will explode if I don't cum soon.

"P-put a finger inside." I blurt, needing just a little bit more.

Hands are on my waist a second later. Chev keeps his touch feather-light, and softly trails his fingers up and down the outside of my thighs before wrapping one arm around my waist and between my legs.

I stiffen when his knuckle makes contact with my sex, but Chev holds it still as I remind myself that this is okay and I want him to touch me. I want to feel my mate's hands and body on mine.

I deserve that.

"Fuck. You're so soft." Chev whines.

He turns his head to the side and gives the inside of my thigh a playful bite. It doesn't hurt, but I still give a little jolt of surprise. Chev urges me to look down at him as he slips his thumb along the length of my slit, and gives my clit a slight rub with the pad of his finger before slowly easing his middle finger into my entrance.

I clench around the digit, the feeling better than I thought it would be. Penetration always meant pain, but this doesn't hurt. It makes me feel full, and I let a low moan slip from between my lips as Chev rocks it into me.

"Does that feel good? Do you like being filled by your mate?" Chev teases.

I glare down at him before lowering myself back onto his face. He grins before opening his mouth and burying himself between my folds, his tongue licking every bit of skin he can reach as he curls and rubs my insides with his finger.

His other hand continues to stroke my hip, and I appreciate how he never tries to hold or pin me against him. He leaves me to control everything, and I lean forward so my clit gets most of the attention from his tongue before snatching the hand on my hip and bringing it to my chest.

Chev doesn't hesitate to cup my boob, and, knowing I'm comfortable with his touch there, kneads them roughly before finding and pinching my nipple.

I arch my back, and once more drop my forehead against the wooden headboard as I find my release.

Chev licks me through it, his moans only growing louder as he licks up all my arousal. A quiet whine slips from my throat when he pulls his finger out of me, but is quickly replaced by a moan when I feel his tongue replace it.

I let him fuck me with it for a few moments before sitting up and climbing off his chest.

Chev props himself up on his elbows with a grin.

"That was amazing." He breathes, his chest heaving.

I hide a smile and duck my head before glancing at his body. His cock is as hard as ever, and his tip is covered in thick precum. It twitches as he sits up, and I suck in a slow breath before placing a hand on his chest and pushing him down.

He falls back without hesitation, and I can practically feel his gaze on the side of my head as I stare at his length.

"Touch yourself." I whisper.

I want to see it.

Chev slides his hand down his torso, and before I change my mind, I place mine on top. He slows, hesitating, before continuing. I let him lead, and hold my hand around his own as he curls his fist around his length.

"Tasting you has me already on edge." He chuckles.

I can't find any words, and instead close my fingers around his own. Chev doesn't pleasure himself right away, and I stare at his hand which acts as a barrier between his length and me.

Licking my lips, I let one of my fingers fall between his.

His shaft is soft and warm, and I love the noise he makes as I give it a gentle rub. He continues to hold himself, and I make eye contact with him as I let the remainder of my fingers fall between his.

He stares at me in shock as I squeeze his length, and when I give a timid nod he slowly works his fist up and down. I follow his lead, and together we stroke him.

"I want to make you cum." I whisper.

Chev gasps.

"You're about to, my mate. I'm going to cum so fucking hard for you." He admits.

His fist speeds up, and I watch him lick his lips before lowering his gaze to my chest. I know he likes my breasts, and lean forward so they hang.

I can tell he enjoys the sight by the loud moan he lets out, and a second later he's holding our hands still and fucking up into our fists instead. The tip of his cock continues to leak, and I watch it disappear and reappear behind our fingers.

"I'm about to cum." He warns.

I don't remove my hand, and squeeze him even tighter as he slams his hips into the bottom of our fists one last time and stills.

The first rope of his cum splatters across his chest, almost reaching his chin, and the second follows suit. From there, they lessen until only a tiny dribble slips out of his slit. I hold him the entire time, refusing to let myself feel bad as his cum seeps between our fingers.

This is my mate.

Chev is my mate.

I spin and look around the room. Chev grunts when I abruptly release him, but otherwise remains silent as I clamor off the bed and head into the kitchen. I'm faintly aware of him following, his footsteps heavy as he walks behind me, but he doesn't try to stop me.

He's reconstructed his home for me. He's planted a hundred little flowers outside and filled his bathroom with every product I could ever want. He agreed, without hesitation, to a life without intimacy and has never once pushed me to do more.

We are alone on his lands, but still, he never pushed me.

It would have been easy for him to pressure me into doing more with him, but he only takes what I explicitly ask for and offer.

"Do you like living in Wrath?" I ask.

Chev clears his throat and walks around me. He looks concerned, his nose scrunched as he scans me head to toe, but after a moment, he shrugs.

"I don't mind it." He eventually admits. "I miss my home, but I would miss you more if I remained here instead of with Aziel."

At this point, it's pretty apparent that fighting our bond is useless. I can't imagine a future without Chev, and I doubt he can either. He's waited his entire life for me, and at this point, all we're doing is prolonging the inevitable.

These lands are Chev's home, and despite how little time I've spent here, it feels like mine, too. I can see myself sleeping in that bed with him and cooking in the kitchen. I can imagine our children running around wreaking havoc.

I can see myself watering the front flowers in the morning and taking long walks among the large trees in the afternoons.

Our bond hums, and I place a hand on my chest as Chev rushes into the kitchen to grab a towel. He doesn't take his eyes off me as he cleans the cum off his skin, the man no longer able to ignore the dripping mess.

"What's going on inside your head?" He whispers.

I can hear the fear behind his words, and instinctively step forward to comfort.

Chev is my mate.

"How long would it take to move my things here?"