Matthew's pov
As we walk through the forest, I can't shake off the feeling of embarrassment that washes over me. The words I spoke to Michael about Emma being my mate weigh heavily on my mind. They slipped out in the heat of the moment,without much thought behind them.
Glancing at Emma beside me, I wonder what's going through her mind. She played along with my impromptu claim when Michael was present, but I can't help but imagine how awkward it must have been for her to hear me refer to her as my mate so casually. It's a weighty title, one that shouldn't be thrown around lightly, and I can't help but feel guilty for placing that burden on her shoulders, even if it was just for show.
"Hey, Matthew… Sorry about back there," Emma breaks the silence with an unexpected apology, and I'm taken
