Page 36 of Bear Boss's Mate
AUSTIN AND BERN LEFTthe office early to catch up and have a drink at Paul’s Restaurant. It also allowed them to finish preparing for that night’s company Christmas party.
Austin had already told Bern the news about his relationship with Marcy.
Bern had been happy to hear that they were now living together and things were better than ever. He’d been entirely supportive, just as Austin expected him to be. His friend was also beginning to rethink his own relationship situation.
“I envy you.” Bern’s lips became a thin line. “I wish I could find my mate. I’m ready to start a family, too. Perhaps now I’ll have a chance with you officially off the market,” he joked.
Austin laughed. “It isn’t like I’ve done all that much dating. Though, now that the police have arrested the men responsible for the attacks on women, you’ll be able to date again yourself.”
Bern smoothed his hair off his forehead. His mouth twisted. “I want what you two have. I’m not convinced I’ll find that here.”
Austin shrugged and his lips curled. “I thought the same thing until you hired Marcy,” he said, taking a sip of his drink. He found his thoughts drifting to his mate, who stayed back atthe office. She was planning to get ready there and show up later with Darla and the other staff members.
He appreciated the time with Bern, but he couldn’t wait to have Marcy all to himself later that night.
AUSTIN BEAMED WHENhe saw Marcy enter the restaurant a couple of hours later. Her face lit up when she noticed him. He gave his head a small shake and ran his teeth over his bottom lip. She was wearing a low-cut, dark blue dress that accentuated her sexy curves. Her brown hair hung in soft curls around her face and cascaded down her back.
She was a sight to behold.
He inhaled a deep breath. God, he loved this woman. His world was complete now that they could be together the way he’d wanted since they first met.
Over the last month, she’d seemed happier than he’d ever seen her. Marcy was more self-assured and passionate than he could have ever hoped for. There was no more worry and sadness in her eyes. He hoped he was partly responsible for the change in her. Though he’d shown her, he still had yet totellher he loved her.
He hoped tonight he would do that, and much more.
When their eyes met, a wave of love filled Austin. He couldn’t wipe the grin from his face as she nodded and walked toward him. He held her gaze until she reached him. She leaned down to share a tender kiss.
“You look stunning.” Austin could not help but give her a broad smile.
She beamed back at him, licking her lips. “You look great yourself,” she flirted, putting a hand on his chest before taking aseat next to him at the table. Austin looked around the long set of tables.
Some of the staff were staring at the two of them. The rest hadn’t seemed to notice what was going on. They were busy drinking and chatting to one another. Austin sipped his drink, then stood before the group of staff and friends.
“Welcome, everyone. Before our meal begins, I’d like to propose a toast. To each of you for a job well done and another very successful year. I hope all of you enjoy yourselves this evening. Thanks for coming out.” Austin raised his glass in the air and then brought it to his lips.
His eyes moved to Marcy as she took a sip of her drink and looked back at him. The table began to buzz with individual conversations. The serving staff began bringing the first course of food to the table.
Bern turned to Austin and, in a low voice, said, “I forgot to mention that new project—”
Austin frowned. “Let’s discuss it later. Tonight is for having fun.”
Bern furrowed his brow, then grinned. He looked between Marcy and Austin. “I don’t know what you’ve done to him, but I like this new Austin.” He laughed.
Austin grinned from ear to ear and reached for Marcy’s hand, squeezing it. Marcy smiled back at him. His new, more relaxed attitude was because he had everything he had always wanted. A successful business and the perfect mate.
AFTER DINNER, MUSICblasted throughout the party room. Most of the staff had husbands, wives, or partners who were dancing, laughing, and enjoying themselves. Austin, Marcy, and Bern sat together, watching everyone smiling and laughing.
“It’s nice to see everyone let their hair down and enjoy themselves,” Bern said.
Austin felt for his friend. Bern seemed less chipper than usual. Austin knew his long-time friend wished he wasn’t alone any longer, especially after seeing how happy Marcy and he were.
Austin chatted with Bern as Marcy sat bouncing to the music. He hadn’t noticed that Sheila was sitting in the room’s corner, glaring at them.
“I’ll be right back,” Marcy said as she stood and pointed toward the ladies’ room. Austin nodded once and resumed his chat with Bern. Seconds later, he felt someone standing close to him. He turned to see Sheila.
“Can I speak with you outside?” she said in a low voice.
Austin stood. “Why?” he asked.
