Harper pov
I woke up to the striking features of my beloved alpha mate. As I attempted to slip out of bed, his voice halted me mid-movement. “Who’s trying to sneak away?” he whispered.
I froze, my heart racing as his deep, husky tone sent chills through me. His warm breath tickled the back of my neck, causing goosebumps to erupt on my skin.
“Who’s sneaking out?” he asked again, his playful tone laced with a possessiveness that made my heart flutter.
I turned to look at him, my cheeks heating up as our eyes locked. His intense gaze felt like it could see right into my soul, and I couldn’t help but grin.
“No one,” I said, trying to sound casual, but my voice came out as a soft murmur.
His eyebrows lifted, and he laughed, the sound resonating in his chest. “No one, really?” He reached out, his fingers gliding along my jawline, igniting sparks throughout my body.
I shivered, feeling the electricity of his touch. “Maybe just me,” I confessed, a playful tone creeping into my voice.
His eyes crinkled with amusement as he smiled. “And where do you think you’re off to?” He pulled me back into bed, his arms encircling me tightly.
“Nowhere,” I whispered, my heart racing as his lips brushed my ear. “Nowhere without you.”
His approving growl sent more shivers through me, and he rolled me onto my back, his body enveloping mine. I felt his warmth, his weight, and the depth of his love.
In that moment, I realized I was exactly where I was meant to be.
“Good,” he murmured, his voice thick with feeling. “You’re not leaving my side. Not ever.”
His lips met mine, and I surrendered to the kiss, our hearts synchronizing.
Alright, let’s pause here. I want to prepare breakfast for us, and we’ll enjoy it right here. I just hope I don’t run into your wild best friend, Sarah, in the kitchen, or she’ll create chaos.
I got out of bed, his eyes on me as I walked across the room to grab a robe. “Breakfast in bed or at the table?” I asked, tying the robe around my waist.
“Surprise me,” he said, his gaze locked on mine.
I smiled and made my way to the kitchen, hoping to dodge Sarah’s antics. As I entered, I found her leaning against the counter, coffee in hand.
“Morning,” she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Or should I say, ‘morning after’?”
I sighed. “Sarah, come on.”
She laughed. “Oh, please. I’m just adding some excitement to the day.”
I started cracking eggs into a bowl. “How about you try being boring for once?”
Sarah laughed. “Boring isn’t in my nature.”
I whisked the eggs, sprinkling in some salt and pepper. “And that’s exactly the issue.”
My alpha mate entered the kitchen, instantly commanding the room. For a brief moment, Sarah’s smile wavered before she regained her composure.
“Good morning, Alpha,” she said, her voice overly sweet.
He raised an eyebrow. “Sarah.”
I couldn’t help but smile, recognizing the warning in his tone.
“Is breakfast almost ready?” he asked, wrapping his arms around me from behind.
“Just a few minutes,” I replied, enjoying the warmth and security he provided.
Clearing her throat, Sarah said, “I think I’ll just… leave… now.”
As she walked out, I turned to him. “Thanks for stepping in.”
He smiled back. “Anytime.”
We settled down to enjoy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and toast, relishing the peaceful morning together.
As we finished, his phone buzzed on the counter. He glanced at it, his expression darkening.
“Pack meeting,” he said, his voice low and serious.
My heart raced. “What’s going on?”
He stood, pulling me up with him. “Not sure, but I need to go.”
I nodded, a wave of concern washing over me. “Be careful.”
He drew me close, his lips brushing mine. “Always.”
As he let go, I noticed the tension in his shoulders. I recognized that look it signaled trouble.
“Do you want me to come with you?” I asked, already anticipating his response.
“No,” he said firmly. “Stay here, stay safe.”
I nodded, but my mind was racing with fears.
Once he left, restlessness took over, and I began pacing the living room, my thoughts consumed by uncertainty.
Suddenly, the door swung open, and Sarah stormed in, her eyes filled with fury.
“You think you’re safe here?” she hissed, her voice laced with venom. “You think he can protect you?”
My instincts kicked in, and I stood my ground, meeting her fierce gaze. “What’s your issue, Sarah?”
“My issue?” she echoed, her laughter chilling. “You’re the issue. You’re making him weak.”
I stepped closer, my heart racing. “That’s a lie.”
Sarah scoffed. “You can’t see the threat surrounding you. You’re only focused on him.”
Her comment hit hard, but I stood my ground.
“Get out,” I commanded, my tone steady.
Sarah’s grin turned sinister. “This isn’t finished.”
With that, she turned sharply and marched away, leaving me feeling unsettled.