Page 11 of Edward’s Bunny

“Incredible,” Lucas whispered.

On the other hand, my mom furrowed her brow and turned her sharp eyes on my dad. “You knew about this? About the possibility of fated mates and didn’t tell me.”

My dad squirmed and rubbed his neck nervously. “It was a few months ago. Brian had called and told me his friend believed they met their mate and wanted me to reach out to my mother to find out about bonding. Mom wouldn’t tell me anything. Just they’d figure it out if they’re mates.” He straightened and focused on me. “You didn’t tell me they actually bonded. Who is Owen’s mate? Do we know him? How did they bond?”

I paused. I knew the reaction my words might cause. I’d had some issues with the situation myself, but meeting a fated mate was a big deal, and my family needed to know the details. "Owen's mate is a predator shifter."

All talking stopped. Tension immediately filled the room. It was so thick you could cut it with a knife. The disapproval radiated from my family in waves. Prey shifters had always been wary of predator shifters, but now their prejudice was plain to see. Even though I understood their concerns, it stung me to know they could dislike someone just because the person was different. What’s more, this was someone special to Owen. Hayden meant the world to Owen.

Olivia was the first to break the silence, her voice cold and hard. "You're telling us Owen has bonded with a predator shifter? They can't be trusted. They're dangerous."

My dad's face darkened, and I could see the worry etched on his features. "I can't believe your friend would put himself in such a situation, Brian."

Lucas chimed in, the disbelief evident in his tone. "Owen always seemed to have good judgment. I never thought he'd end up with a predator shifter."

Before I responded, I decided to share a bit more about Owen's mate, hoping it would help ease their concerns. "I've actually met Hayden, Owen's mate. He's a lion shifter, and I have to say, he's a good guy for a predator shifter. He genuinely adores Owen."

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves. "I know you all have your reasons for feeling this way," I said, my voice wavering slightly. "But Owen trusts his mate. They're fated, after all. And I trust Owen."

My family exchanged uneasy glances, but no one spoke up. I could tell they were all struggling to reconcile their care for Owen with their fears about his mate.

"I just hope he knows what he's doing," my mom murmured, her eyes filled with concern.

Feeling the need to defend my friend further, I added, “Owen isn't naïve. I explained the dangers and prejudices that come with being bonded to a predator shifter. But he believes in their bond and is willing to fight for it. In fact, they did fight for it, and Hayden proved himself in my eyes. I think we should respect that and give Hayden a chance. Maybe not just Hayden, but give all predator shifters a chance.”

The room remained silent for a few moments, the tension in the air still palpable. It was clear that my words hadn't entirely swayed them, but I could see that they were at least considering what I had said.

My mother, ever the pragmatist, decided it was time to move on. "Well, they’re bonded now. It’s what fate decided, and we can't do anything about it, no matter how distasteful we think it is." She turned to me, her expression softening. “Brian, one of the main reasons I asked you here is that besides me, you’re the next best cook.”

Olivia and Lucas protested, but my mother continued. “Thanksgiving is next week, and I could use your help to make the meal for everyone. Can I count on you?”

I nodded, grateful for the change in the subject. “Of course, Ma. I'll be there with bells on.”

The conversation flowed to lighter topics, but I could still feel my family’s unease about someone they knew being fated to a predator shifter. They’d need time to come to terms with the news. In the meantime, I resolved to stand by my friend and offer whatever support I could. After all, that's what true friends do—stand by each other through thick and thin, no matter the odds. And perhaps I could go to Owen with my Randy issue. I needed help. My relationship was dying, and I had no idea how to fix it.

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