Page 12 of Bearly Frosty

Emilia nods, a small smile playing on her lips. “I know. It’s just a lot to take in. But I’m ready for this new chapter.”

“Me too,” I say, pulling her close and leaning over to place a kiss on her soft lips.

Wrenlee watches us, a thoughtful expression on her face. It’s clear she’s thinking about the future as well, about her own path and how it intersects with ours. There’s something unspoken in her gaze—hope, maybe, or determination. Whatever it is, it adds to the sense of unity that has settled over us.

Finally, with the bulk of the packing done for the day, we decide to wind down since the movers won’t be here until Monday to move all my mate’s things to Glacier Pass.

Emilia suggests a movie, and we gather on the small couch, propping our feet up on the coffee table loaded with our accumulated snacks. Wrenlee insists on watching a classic horror film, something appropriately gothic to match her current literary studies. Emilia and I exchange amused glances and agree.

When Emilia snuggles up next to me, I place my arm around her shoulders and hold her sweet body close. My inner bear grumbles about how long I’m waiting to mark her, but I shush the asshole and enjoy the quiet time with my mate and her sister.

By the time the credits roll, it’s late, and the city outside has quieted down to a low hum. Wrenlee stretches and yawns, looking content. “Thanks for today, you guys. I had a great time.”

“Same here,” I say, standing up and stretching out the residual tension from sitting for several hours. “We’ll tackle the rest of the packing tomorrow?”

“Definitely,” Emilia replies, her voice thick with sleepiness. “But for now, let’s call it a night.”

“Why don’t you take the bed, Emilia can have the sofa, and I’ll sleep in the recliner,” Wrenlee offers me, but there’s no way I’d sleep in the one bed in the apartment while my mate and her sister sleep in the living room.

“It makes more sense for me to take the sofa and you two can sleep in the bed.” It’s still a culture shock to me to imagine living in a space so small that sharing a tiny bed is necessary, but the high cost of living in the city facilitates cutting corners to make things work.

We say our goodnights and Emilia and Wrenlee head off to the small bedroom while I fold my six-foot-seven ass onto the barely adult-size floral sofa.

Willing myself to drift off to sleep, I stare at the ceiling, my mind fighting to settle into a peaceful rhythm. The thought of Glacier Pass, our new life, and the promise of Wrenlee’s visits weave through my thoughts, easing the restlessness that’s been assaulting me since the plane landed several hours ago.

Come morning, we’ll continue the process of moving my mate from this cramped apartment to the large apartment on my property. Hopefully, it won’t take me too long to convince her to move into the main house with me. My inner bear is insistent in the back of my mind, but I force him to be patient and let my human side take control of the situation.

Chapter 8

EMILIA

The next fewdays after returning from New York are a whirlwind of unpacking, settling back in, and catching up on everything I missed while I was away. I can’t deny that the trip, though necessary, made me long for the tranquility of Glacier Pass. The city’s hustle and bustle pale in comparison to the peaceful charm of this little town.

We spent the morning catching up in the office, and now, as evening approaches, a flutter of anticipation dances in my stomach. Dillon has offered to cook dinner at his place, a gesture that feels both intimate and comforting. But tonight, I’m ready for more than just comfort. I’m ready to take the next step and become Dillon’s mate for eternity.

After taking a quick shower, I sift through my wardrobe, picking out a fitted black dress with delicate lace detailing and a flattering silhouette. It’s elegant and subtly sexy, balanced with a touch of mystery.

A quick dusting of blush and a hint of mascara later, and I’m ready to go. I throw a wrap over my shoulders, slip into a pair of heels, and make my way out into the cool evening air, the setting sun casting a warm glow over the path to Dillon’s house.

His home is nestled just at the edge of the forest, near enough to town to be convenient but distant enough to feel secluded. I love it here—the way his large home seems both stately and inviting, with beams of wood and wide, welcoming windows.

I’m greeted by the lingering aroma of something savory as I knock on the door, and Dillon’s voice responds with a welcoming, “Come in!”

I step inside, and he’s there, standing in the archway to the kitchen, wearing a casual, plaid button-down and jeans that fit just right. His smile widens when he sees me, eyes traveling appreciatively over my outfit.

“Fucking hell,” he breathes, taking a step closer. “You’re gorgeous, little goddess.”

“Thank you,” I reply with a teasing grin. “You look pretty good yourself.”

He steps close and places a soft kiss on my lips. “Dinner is almost ready. Can I get you something to drink?”

“I’d love some wine if you have it.” I need something to calm my insane nerves.

In the kitchen, I perch on a stool by the island, watching Dillon move with an easy grace as he pours two glasses of red wine and hands me one. I take a huge gulp.

“So, what’s on the menu tonight?” I ask, leaning forward slightly.

“Well, I wanted to keep it cozy, so I’m making us some herb-roasted chicken with garlic mashed potatoes and a side of honey-glazed carrots,” he explains, gesturing to the tantalizing spread of ingredients on the counter.

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