Nick straddled the picnic table bench. “Spin around.” He waited while she turned until her back was to him then began to rub and massage her back. She curled forward to give him better access. Alex thought it wasn’t just the help with sore muscles that her friend was enjoying, but even such simple contact with her mate as well. After a little bit she turned her head so she could see her mom again.
“See, he takes good care of me. I don’t even have to ask most of the time and he gives me whatever I want. I never have to think about it and he makes sure I have everything I need. He protects me.” She used one hand to motion to the people surrounding them. “And he would never, ever, raise a hand to hurt me in anyway.” She leaned back against her mate, forcing him to stop rubbing her back, but
