Page 34 of Captured By Her Mates

“I want you to know that there’s more to this than meets the eye,” I say, my voice soft but resolute. “Our connection, it’s... it’s deeper than you might realize.”

Ryker’s gaze intensifies, his expression shifting from curiosity to a mix of seriousness and anticipation. “I’ve always sensed that,” he replies, his tone measured. “There’s something between us that goes beyond the surface. I’ve thought of you as my mate since I first met you.”

His mate…now that statement makes me feel everything all at once.

I take a step closer to him, our connection palpable in the air. “We connected first, Ryker. Before all of this,” I gesture around us, indicating the war, the conflict, the chaos. “And that matters. It’s a foundation that can’t be ignored.”

He nods slowly, as if processing the weight of my words. “I’ve always felt it too. But I also understand that there are things you can’t share with just me.”

A mixture of relief and gratitude washes over me. Ryker’s ability to understand the complexities of our situation, to give me space while remaining steadfast, is a testament to the depth of our connection.

“I promise you, there’s more to this puzzle,” I reiterate, my gaze unwavering. “It will all make sense soon. That’s why I want us to have this meeting.”

His hand reaches out, cupping my cheek gently. “I trust you, even when I don’t have all the answers. We’re in this together, remember?”

Touched by his trust and loyalty, I lean into his touch, closing my eyes briefly. “Always.”

As Ryker walks away, his form receding into the distance, I’m filled with an overwhelming need to express myself further, to lay bare the emotions that have been simmering within me. I hurry after him, catching up just as he’s about to turn a corner.

“Wait,” I call out, my voice urgent yet gentle.

He pauses and turns back to me, his eyes curious but patient. There’s a quiet understanding in his gaze, a recognition that this is a moment that deserves to be heard.

“I need to tell you something,” I begin, my heart racing as I search for the right words. “Something else. You… you’ve changed me, Ryker.”

His brows furrow slightly, a mixture of surprise and curiosity crossing his features. He looks a little like I have knocked the wind from him. “Changed you? How?”

I take a deep breath, the weight of my confession settling over me. “I used to fear you, the intensity of your presence. But now... now, I don’t want to run from it anymore. You’ve shown me a different side, a side that’s full of loyalty, kindness, and unwavering support.”

Ryker’s expression softens, a warmth in his gaze that’s both humbling and reassuring. “I’m glad,” he says, his voice genuine. “You’ve changed me too, in ways I never expected.”

I step closer, the space between us closing as I continue to lay bare my feelings. “The only thing I think of when I think of you now is the love swelling in my heart. You’re no longer a source of fear; you’re a source of strength and comfort.”

A tender smile tugs at the corners of Ryker’s lips, and I can see the emotions mirrored in his eyes. “I feel the same way. You’ve become the center of my world, the light in the midst of all this darkness. I didn’t know if I would ever be able to tell you that…”

As he reaches out to take my hand, I’m overwhelmed by a sense of completeness. The path that has brought us here, the challenges we’ve faced and the connections we’ve formed, all lead to this moment of raw vulnerability and shared understanding.

“I don’t want to lose you,” I admit, my voice barely above a whisper. “Not now, not ever.”

His grip on my hand tightens, his touch a silent promise. “You won’t. We’ll face whatever comes together, no matter the odds.”

Tears prick at the corners of my eyes, a testament to the depth of my emotions. As we stand there, hand in hand, I realize that love – undeniable and unbreakable – has become the anchor in our lives. Amidst the chaos, amidst the battles we fight, this connection remains steadfast and unwavering. But my emotions are interrupted by a new presence joining us.

Novak bursts through the door first, his entrance abrupt and filled with urgency. “Boss? I got your message; what’s going on?”

The room is charged with a sudden energy as the other members of the pack follow Novak’s lead, their expressions a mix of curiosity and readiness. Their presence is a reminder that amidst our personal connections, our pack remains a united force bound by loyalty and determination.

Ryker steps back from me, his hand reluctantly releasing mine, and he offers a reassuring smile. “I guess it’s time to set up for the meeting then.”

I nod and watch all the men walk to the conference room, ready to hear whatever I have to say. I don’t know how ready I am to be in the spotlight and to tell them all how I feel, but I have to try, and there’s no time better than the present.

I step into the conference room, my heart pounding in my chest as I face the expectant gazes of the pack members. The room is charged with a mix of anticipation and curiosity, and I feel the weight of the moment settling over me.

Before I begin, my eyes find Ryker’s, his presence a grounding force. There’s reassurance in his gaze, a silent encouragement that emboldens me to continue. Taking a steadying breath, I clear my throat and address my pack.

“Thank you all for being here,” I say, my voice carrying a blend of sincerity and vulnerability. “I know this is a little unusual and unexpected, but I was the one who called you all here because I have something I want to discuss with you.”

I pause for a moment, allowing my words to settle among the group. My gaze shifts from one member to another, each face representing a unique aspect of our pack’s dynamic.

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