To Protect His Mate (13 page)

She was stunning. Her ivory gown was simple in design yet exquisite on her slender frame. The satiny material hung to the floor with a small train trailing behind and delicate beadwork around the bodice. Her long, auburn hair was curled and adorned with a wreath of fresh flowers; her makeup lightly done, giving her the appearance of a royal wood nymph.

It was the look she gave him, though, that nearly stole his breath. The love in her eyes and the strength of the emotion he felt wrapping around and warming his soul was something he would always cherish.

Adam escorted her to Abraham’s side, stole a quick kiss on her cheek then quickly moved to Erik’s side. Smart man, because Abraham still had a growl rumbling deep down in his chest. His lips would be the only ones to
ever
touch her again.

With a gentle squeeze of his fingers by Stephanie, he found himself calming. This one woman was the only one to ever wield that power over him…and he didn’t mind a bit.

Sarah now glided down the aisle on Ethan’s arm, with eyes only for Erik. Abraham wasn’t sure how they’d done it, but he and Erik had managed to become mated—and now married—to two very strong and capable women.

* * * *

After the ceremony, everyone returned to Stephanie’s house to celebrate and enjoy a small reception. She had chosen to rent out the home for the time being and maybe sell it later if the right family came along.

Apparently, the night before had been spent decorating and moving furniture to create more space. Not that it helped Ethan. The poor sap was attempting to avoid a pushy little man with what appeared to be a calendar in his hands.

“They’re classy shots, Mr. Wolfe. I really think you’d make an excellent addition to the models we already have in place. Since you’ll be out at the sites to ensure that we adhere to the laws here, surely a few photos wouldn’t hurt, right?”

“Listen,” Ethan growled, clearly getting fed up. “I’m at my brother’s wedding. I’ve already told you I’ll be around to ensure no food, trash or equipment is left around that would either attract or harm the local wildlife while your company does their photo shoot, but that’s all. If you don’t stop bothering me about this, I’ll revoke your permits, and you can find another location.”

The man’s hands went up in surrender. “No, no. I’ll concede defeat…for now. Once you get a good look at the models you’d be working with, you might just change your mind,” he replied, bobbing his bushy eyebrows for effect.

“Don’t hold your breath,” Ethan grumbled as the frustrating man made his exit.

“My, my, my, Ethan,” Adam drawled, putting in a little extra southern twang into his words. “That young city slicker was
very
eager to take half-naked pictures of you.”

“Can it, Adam.”

“Why, he looked positively awestruck by your manly physique.” Adam neatly evaded Ethan’s elbow and moved off, trailing laughter in his wake.

“He needs his ass kicked,” Ethan growled.

“I’ll relay that to the girls,” Abraham offered, stifling a chuckle of his own.

Ethan just smiled. “Yeah, I’d like to see that.”

Abraham accepted Ethan’s outstretched hand and gave it a firm shake.

“I’m happy for you, Abe. You and Erik seem real content with your mates.”

“You have no idea,” he sighed. “It’s the most amazing feeling, knowing without a doubt she loves me unconditionally.” He noted the wistful look in Ethan’s eyes. “Don’t worry. You’ll find your mate soon.”

“How do you know?”

“Because if you don’t, I think Stephanie and Sarah may start playing matchmaker.”

Ethan groaned, grumbled something about needing a drink then slunk off to the kitchen.

“Is everything all right?” Stephanie asked as she took her place at Abraham’s side.

“It is now.” He kissed her soundly, earning a few whistles from their guests and a pretty blush from his bride. “You’re beautiful, Stephanie, and now you are all mine.”

“Yes, I am, and you’re mine.”

“Always, sweetheart. You’re never getting rid of me.”

“I never want to. I love you, Abe.”

“And I love you. Always.”

“Always.”

About the Author

I am a wife and mother first, an author second, and I hold a full-time job…because of something called “bills”. BLECH!! I’m also an avid reader and enjoy a wide variety of genres from contemporary to historical and—of course—paranormal, though I tend to stick to romance.

I write for the joy of it, and love to hear from readers, so come join me on Facebook or Twitter and let’s chat!

www.facebook.com/SerenaPettus

www.twitter.com/SerenaPettus

Erotic Shape-shifter Romance from
Resplendence Publishing

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