“Charlie,” he said, his voice low as he walked up to me. I was rooted to the spot, my eyes trained on him. “I want you more than words can express. I never thought I’d be blessed with a Mate, much less one as extraordinary as you. I know you were expecting someone better, and I won’t deny that I understand why you’re disappointed, but please. Give me a chance.”
My heart ached at his words, and I can blame it on the mate bond, or being overcame by his scent, or any number of other things, but in truth, I just was moved by his words.
“Fine. We can make the announcement that we’re mates in the morning,” my voice was airy, and I barely heard it.
He looked down at me as he intertwined our fingers. I looked up at him through hooded lashes, but when he went to kiss me again, I pulled away.
“I
