A laugh slipped from my lips. Our time at the cottage had felt like a honeymoon. It was over but I found it adorable that he thought it could continue after he resumed his role. “Okay big guy. Whatever you want.”
When Patrick called us into the Press room, Matteo and Charlie went in first. When they gave us the all-clear, Bastien guided me into the room with his hand firmly against my back, my body tucked into his side. Claiming me publicly for the first time. Realising that, it was easy to bring a smile to my face. I could do this. It wasn’t the life I had dreamed of, but I could still be happy. Even if being the Lady wasn’t my dream, Bastien and I could have a good life. I had to be grateful for what I had.
Out of habit, I scanned the room as Michelle and Bea followed behind us.
Every seat was occupied. All the major news channels were there. Excited chatter filled the air as Bastien gently ushered me to the podium and then it subsided into an expectant hush.
“Thank you for coming,” Bastien said. “We appreciate the support the public has shown us since I was imprisoned. First, I would like to publicly introduce my mate, the beautiful Electra Bowden.” I blushed and gave a small wave to a round of applause and cheers, before Bastien continued. “I could tell youstories about my obsession with her, but I’m not going to.” This was met with some laughs and someone in the crowd whistled.
“And now to business.” Bastien wrapped an arm around my waist, keeping me anchored to him. Down the bond, I could sense his anticipation. He was looking forward to this, as he should. For him, I would muster some enthusiasm too. “As you know, Maximilian Veder died while trying to escape justice and the Council rescinded the Execution Order. Since then, the Council has asked me to return as President.” Somebody cheered, and Bastien turned his head to give them a nod. “I am humbled by the opportunity and today I’ve come before you to formally…"
Every person in the audience leaned forward, ready to catch the historic moment.
“… decline,” said Bastien.
The room erupted into pandemonium. Our four Shifter guards moved into place around us. I could hear Patrick shouting for order.
My hands moved to my hips and Bastien loosened his grip enough for me to swivel to face him.His hands settled on my waist. He was smiling. A full-on smug grin.Take it back, I demanded.What the fuck? Just… what the actual fuck? This is your calling Bastien!
His smile faded.No baby, it isn’t. I’m done with politics. I want to live in your little cottage. I want to fill your belly with babes and raise children.
I blinked back sudden tears. No. That’s my dream. This is yours. Don’t give up your dreams for me.
His hands moved. One cradled my face and the other tangled in my hair as he dropped his head to rest his foreheadagainst mine.Dreams change,sweetheart.We lost so much time already. Let’s not waste a minute more.
Really? What if you get bored in the country and change your mind?
I’m going to be too busy being a mate and a father to be bored.That thought was accompanied by such an explicit image of Bastien’s body covering mine and pounding into me from behind, that my whole body flushed and wetness gathered in my panties. And I’m going to enjoy every second of the baby-making process. Over and over again.
It was suddenly very hot in here. And then, with a gasp, I remembered that we were in public. In a room full of reporters, no less. Oh gods. I tried to pull away but Bastien just held onto me more tightly.
Relax, baby. No-one can see past our guards. Take your time.
Of course, I should have realised that Bastien would not do anything that would embarrass me in public. Still, my hands shook as I straightened my hair and smoothed the fabric of my sweater. The media attention was more of a mindfuck than I had expected.
By the time I had pulled myself together, the audience had calmed down. At a subtle signal from Bastien, our guards moved to one side so that Bastien could address the media again, still holding on to me.
I’m not going to run away, I said, beginning to feel a little more like myself.
I know that. He sounded smug.But I’m showing all those fuckers out there that you’re mine. Bitten and mated. All mine.
And then, as if he hadn’t just metaphorically pissed in a circle around me, the psycho finished his speech. “It has been a privilege to serve as President for the last five years and I am proud of the work I did. But it’s a hard job and requires total focus. I’m ready for the next chapter in my life. Thank you.”
Reporters shouted questions at him but Bastien ignored them all.Let’s go home.
Epilogue
“Yes, right there.” My back arched as Bastien’s tongue delved deeper into my core. Little shocks of pleasure ran through my body. I was so close. “More.” My voice was no more than a breathy whisper.
Who do you belong to?
His inner voice was dark. Decadent. He was letting out a little of his Beast. Goose bumps shivered across my skin. It turned me on so much when his Beast came out to play.
You. Only you.
That’s right, he purred.And who makes you come?
Two large fingers worked in my soaked pussy, curved to rub againstjustthe right spot. Pleasure pulsed through my body. I was so close it was hard to form words.When I didn’t reply the fingers stopped moving.No, no, no. I needed them.