Bicker's eyes were fixed on my face, as if they were about to explode at any moment.
However, before he could say anything, I began to stammer awkwardly: “I... I... I'm sorry... I didn't mean to...”
But just before I could say anything else, Bicker pressed me harder against the tree trunk, grabbed my chin, and lifted my face up to his.
“What did you say? What did you call me?” he asked, his warm breath on my face.
At that, my eyes widened. I had no idea how he had interpreted my words, so I quickly lowered my head in embarrassment.
“I'm sorry, I didn't mean to call you mate”...
But at that moment, he squeezed my chin harder and brought his lips closer to mine. “Say it again... say it again...” he begged, brushing his lips against mine.
“My... my mate,” I said, completely lost in my
