Sam felt like he was traversing a mine field taking each question and observation carefully and thoughtfully. Wyatts final statement made it clear he took it seriously and understood what was between the two men which was a relief. “Do you understand what a beloved is?”
“I know they’re important and held in a high regard by their paranormal partner.” That was a very keen insight.
“Vampires have beloveds and shifters have mates, but their importance is the same. They are chosen by Fate and are recognized by scent, touch and sight. I knew you when I touched your scarf and I was drawn to you and when I met you our destiny was set.”
“Like soulmates?”
“More than soulmates.” Sam went on to explain the sacred aspects of the bond and the lifetime commitment it forges. He also told him of the perks for humans bonded to a vampire and Wyatt’s eyes got bigger and bigger, but he never lost faith in what Sam was telling him. Sam was glad that they’d completed their bond before getting into this particular discussion, for it gave him an edge and gave Wyatt the ability to see the truth, honesty, and love that Sam was harboring.
"It's a lot to take in and process, I know, but we have time. As long as you're open to me and open to the truth, this will all come together, and it will make sense." Sam kissed him again, punctuating his words with the passion he was feeling for his beloved.
"Just keep holding me and making love to me, and I will be happy no matter what the situation. Nothing that feels this damn good could ever be bad." Wyatt told him and smiled that smile that made Sam's heart melt.
“I will love you and hold you close till the end of time.” Sam pledged.
Holden received the message from his banker that Griffen Humbolt was attempting to dismantle the pending agreement with Cabot. “He made a few complaints in an attempt to block the sale. He's simply trying to muck up the works and slow things down."
"Put an immediate stop to it," Holden demanded. "Humbolt no longer works for me and is attempting to cause havoc."
“We recognized what he was attempting, and his complaints have been tabled for undo prejudice in the matter. We will expedite an end to the matter.”
“Thank you and keep me posted.” He ended the call and then notified his legal department to send out a cease and desist letter to Griffen Humbolt immediately and to also look into action that could be taken against him.
He then sent a message to Samuel Cabot explaining the situation and asking for a meeting. “Mr. Cabot is out of the office, sir.” His assistant messaged back. Seeing Cabot the man who had head hunted his own son, was not tops on his list, but it was something that needed his personal attention or the deal would be delayed or dismissed.
Holden personally wrote up a new offer, giving Cabot everything he had originally requested and a significant reduction in price. He sent it over to his office. The sooner the business was dealt with, the sooner he could put his mind to repairing the relationship with his son. Cabot had a lot to offer, and Wyatt might never come back, but he wanted to make things right or as right as possible, considering the level of his neglect and mistreatment.
Needing to do something and not one to tolerate waiting, he sent a text to Griffen telling him to refrain from further interference and making a few very legal and specific threats to his career and future. He received a response almost immediately, and it was troubling.
"You're going to regret this, Holden. I'm going to make you regret this.” The message was short and ominous and sent a chill up Holden’s back.
Sam ordered dinner delivered to his apartment since he wanted the continued privacy and intimacy with his beloved. They'd talked a lot, and the air was cleared of most questions, although it was still a very new concept for Wyatt, and it would take time for him to fully understand. He had a firm grasp and accepted the need for anonymity even if he did not totally comprehend the number of paranormals in the world today.
“Your uncle is the Master of your coven. He is the same Emmanuel Cabot who landed here and settled this area two hundred years ago.” Wyatt made the statement as they finished their dinner and Sam was pouring drinks. Sam nodded.
“You’re over two hundred years old and someday you will be Master of your coven.” Again, Sam nodded. “Where will that leave me?” That question made it clear that Wyatt’s understanding was still not where it should be.
“By my side as always. We are one, my love. You are my beloved now and for always. There will never be another in my life, only you. That is why we take this bond so seriously. There is no stepping away, changing your mind, or finding someone new. This is a bond that is forever. Check your heart and feel what I am feeling." Sam told him and took a sip of wine.
“I . . . I’m overwhelmed by what I feel.” Wyatt admitted.
"Relax and take it slowly. I will help you." Sam moved over behind Wyatt and began to massage his shoulders. He also channeled his peace and calm, and soon Wyatt was swooning.
“I love your touch.”
“I love your smile.” Sam bent and placed a kiss to Wyatt’s cheek. He then took his hand and led him out onto the balcony overlooking the city. They just stood there together silently holding one another. “I want you to move in here with me and I want you to also move into the Chateau.”
"I'd love that," Wyatt answered, to Sam's surprise.
“No hesitation?” He teased.
"I'm taking it slowly and doing what I know in my heart is correct. Staying near you has been my goal since our first meeting. I fought it in the beginning because I thought it was odd, but I'm not fighting it anymore." He snuggled a little closer to Sam.
“You will never regret it my love.” He said and took Wyatt’s lips in another kiss this one hungry and searching. Wyatt’s phone began go off and he pulled it from his pocket.
“I should have muted this thing.” He said and looked at the message which startled him. Sam waited watching Wyatt’s expressions and wondering what it was about. “It’s my father he wants to see me.” He said and looked up at Sam.
"I'll go with you," Sam stated and reached for his coat.