Page 14 of Chomp's Challenge

ARIEL

“So, you’re saying it’s all real? Shifters really exist?” I ask, staring at Callie like she’s partially lost her mind. I mean, I’ve read shifter romances before, but I never thought the fictional stories I love had any basis in truth.

“I know,” she laughs. “It sounds crazy, and if I didn’t see Kodiak change into a big bear in front of me, I wouldn’t have believed this was possible either.”

I hold up a hand. “Wait. Kodiak is a bear?”

She nods.

“And he changed into one in front of you?” I’m flabbergasted. “How is that even possible?”

Callie shrugs. “I don’t know the specifics of his DNA or how he’s able to do it, I just know that he can.” She gives me a tiny smile. “And Chomp is an alligator shifter.”

I saw the gator. I firmly believe it exists. No delusion there. But I don’t know if I believe that Chomp is changing into it or shifting or whatever Callie is saying. It’s too fantastical to even fathom and after all the mental hits I’ve taken recently, I’m feeling just a bit overwhelmed. The reality of what I saw the other night wars with how Chomp has treated me since I woke up in his home.

As the gator, he was lethal, ruthless. He never hesitated as he pulled Ricky off of me, then destroyed him, nor did he allow Perry to continue to live when he came to help Ricky. As the man, he’s been very charming in so many ways. He’s been attentive, taking care of me in a way that makes me feel safe and secure, something I haven’t felt in a very long time.

“He’s never hurt me, Ariel. Kodiak never would. His bear is protective of me, possibly more so than Kodiak.”

“So, it’s two different parts? Like a human part and an animal part?” This is a lot to take in, and my head is swimming as she continues to lay it all out for me.

“Yes, that’s a good way to explain it. They’re shifters. Each of the guys in the club are different animals. Spike is a dragon, you know.”

No way! “A dragon. Like an actual dragon?” Okay, that’s kinda impressive. “How can Spike fly around as a dragon without anyone seeing it? Or Kodiak’s bear? Or even Chomp’s alligator?” This just isn’t logical. People would know about this if shifters existed, right?

“They’re very good at keeping that secret. At least, until they meet their mate.”

Mate? “What’s that? I don’t know what you mean by mate.”

“Soulmate. Each of their animals recognizes the one female destined to be their mate. Or lifelong companion, I guess you could say. A wife, but also so much more.”

As she describes it, I finally get what she means. Um, shit. Does that mean Chomp thinks I’m his mate?

Callie reaches for my hand and squeezes. “I think your situation is unique. Chomp found you during the worst possible time. His gator lost it when he saw you being abused. It’s made this whole thing tense and strange for you, I’m sure.”

She’s right. I close my eyes, and I can still see the image of that gator as he attacked Ricky and Perry. Their screams don’t bother me. Neither does the fact that they died. But it does freak me out to know that Chomp is the one behind it. It wasn’t just a wild animal attack.

Chomp killed them for hurting me.

Blinking, I struggle to process what this all means. “He saved me.” My voice is barely above a whisper as it dawns on me that because of Chomp’s actions, I will never be violated like that again by the likes of Perry or his disgusting friends.

Callie squeezes my hand again. “Yeah, he did. Kodiak protected me too. It’s because he’s my mate. He’d never let anyone or himself or his bear ever harm me.” Her gaze meets mine, trying to offer comfort. “And Chomp is the same with you.”

“He’s my mate.” It’s a statement, but I don’t know that I believe it. Maybe if I say it often enough, it’ll sink in, but right now, it’s information overload for me. My mom and I used to watch Married With Children, and the daughter, Kelly, would forget stuff. When pressed, she finally said something along the lines of her brain could only hold so much info, and when something new came along, it kicked out something old. That’s kind of how I feel right now.

“Yes,” Callie confirms. “But if you don’t believe me, that’s okay. It might take time for all of this to get sorted for you. But think of how Chomp has acted since he found and rescued you. How has he been?”

“Kind. Thoughtful. He’s cooked for me twice now, and he drew me a bubble bath with scented candles.” Wow. He’s been doing all of that because he thinks I’m his mate. “Is that his motivation? Because he thinks I belong to him?” I don’t need another guy trying to control me or dictate my life. I won’t let that happen a second time.

“It’s not like that at all. I promise. Kodiak is fiercely protective of me, but he doesn’t interfere much in my choices. He’ll voice his opinion, and sometimes it’s pushy, but it’s because he worries for my safety. We’ve got a baby coming too.” She pats her slightly rounded belly. “I’ve never felt coerced or forced to do anything. Kodiak respects me and my decisions, as well as my boundaries. He just gets grumpy about them on occasion because he’s a bear.” Her laugh makes me smile.

“What if I don’t believe or want any of this?” I dare to ask.

“Then that’s your right and Chomp will honor your choice, whatever it is.” She releases my hand but gives me an encouraging smile. “I can’t imagine what you’re going through or how hard this must be. If you need time, I think I can help.”

“I do. Chomp has been great but being in that house is starting to feel stifling. I need space and to heal.” In more ways than just physical. I have to return to the independent woman I was before I got involved with Perry, because I’ve forgotten pretty much everything when it comes to making my own decisions.

“That’s understandable. I’ve got a friend who lives in town who’s looking for a roommate. She works at Beanie’s Brew, the coffee shop with the best beans in the state. If you’re interested, I can give you Michelle’s number.”

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