Chasen shook it off. Werebears didn’t have mates like wolves did. They had chosen mates but never fated mates. They didn’t have an inner voice that told them someone was their mate. So what the hell was he hearing? What the hell was he feeling?
He looked away from her and walked toward the door. He had to get out of there. Before he did something, he had to collect his thoughts.
Jin watched Chasen walk away. The moment he disappeared from sight, pain lanced through her chest. Every instinct screamed to race after him, to leap into his arms. The intensity of it terrified her. Vulnerable. Excited. Confused. Why had he left without a word? Had she done something wrong? Maybe he didn't like her after all. The thought carved a hollow ache inside her.
She looked over at Hunter. “What happened? Is he upset with me?” Jin asked quietly.
Hunter smiled. “He’s just like that sometimes, Jin. You’ll get used to it. It isn’t personal. It’s how he processes things. I think he feels really bad about what happened to you and is just taking this time to himself to sort out his thoughts.”
“He doesn’t have to feel bad about it. It wasn’t his fault. It was just something horrible that happened. It’s the past, though. This is my present, and here, with all of you, is my future,” Jin said happily.
Hunter grinned. “That’s right, Jin. That’s the best attitude to have. You’re an amazing person, you know that? Not too many people could come out of a situation like you have and still be as happy as you are. You have a bright outlook on life. It’s very refreshing.” Hunter stood up and reached his hand out to help her up. “You want a shower? Need me to show you how to work it again?”
Jin giggled and shook her head. “Yes, I’ll take a shower, but I think I know how to do it now. Thank you.”
Hunter watched Jin as she hopped into the bathroom and shut the door. His gaze then turned to the bedroom door where Chasen had walked out. He didn’t say a word. He just got up and left. Despite what he had told Jin, it was unlike Chasen not to say anything. He almost looked like he was in a daze, his hands balling into fists like he was fighting for control. Something was bothering his brother, and he wanted to know what it was.
He slowly walked out of the room and down the hall to Chasen’s room, opening the door. He found Chasen lying on his bed, looking up at the ceiling.
“Chase? What’s going on?” Hunter walked up and sat on the edge of the bed.
Chasen tossed a ball up in the air and caught it as it came down. “Nothing. Why?”
“Chasen, seriously, tell me. Why did you just leave like that?” Hunter watched him squeeze the ball in his hands before he tossed it up again.
“Nothing,” he replied tersely.
Hunter sighed and glared at him. “Really? You aren’t even going to tell me?”
“It’s because I DON’T KNOW, Hunter!” Chasen roared as he launched himself out of bed. He began to menacingly pace about the room, a deep scowl on his face.
“You know something, though. Maybe I can help? Talk to me.” Hunter’s voice was calm, despite just getting yelled at. His brother was frustrated. Something was bothering him and he wanted to help.
“I don’t know, Hunter. Everything is so strange and foreign. I just don’t know. But this isn’t making sense at all.” Chasen groaned in his hands as he leaned back against the wall.
Hunter walked up to him and placed a hand on his shoulder. “Chase. I’m here. Talk to me.”
“I don’t understand, Hunter. We don’t have mates like werewolves do. We have chosen mates, not fated ones. But …” Chasen sighed and flung his hands down to his sides as he looked up at the ceiling. “These feelings are getting confusing, and stronger. How are these feelings getting this strong? It shouldn’t be possible. I’m having a hard time fighting myself off. I’m losing my self-control, Hunter. And I’ve heard my beast inside me. My feral instincts have called out to me. I can hearits voice, and it’s calling Jin mine.” He looked down at Hunter. “That can’t be right, though. That is a werewolf thing.”
Hunter studied Chasen’s face for a moment. “That sounds like a mate pull for sure. That would explain why the feelings are hard to fight off.” Hunter paused, studying Chasen more. “I don’t know why you’re feeling it, but I don’t think you can deny what it is.”
Chasen groaned and looked down. “Now what, Hunter?”
“What do you mean ‘now what?’ You like her, don’t you? Go talk to her. Just maybe wait until she’s finished showering.” Hunter smirked.
“Ugh, Hunter. She’s been abused and is just now settling in here. I don’t want to scare her off. She might not be feeling this. In fact, I’m sure she’s not. There’s nothing about her that shows she’s drawn to me. I’m afraid if I say something, I’ll scare her off.” Chasen frowned and leaned back against the wall again.
“Well, this is a step forward,” Hunter said with a smile.
“Say what?” Chasen arched his eyebrows as he stared at his crazy brother.
“Well, earlier today you refused to admit you liked her, and now you’re claiming her as your mate. Boy, you sure move fast.” Hunter winked and chuckled as he dodged his brother’s swat.
“I have to try to hold back for her sake, Hunter. I want to give her some time to adjust here. I don’t know everything she’s been through. I hope … I hope she’ll accept me.” Chasen looked at Hunter, knowing he would understand him on a deeper level, because he knew what it was like to find someone and have it blow up in your face.
“I don’t see why she wouldn’t. You’re a great guy. And if not, I’m still here for you,” Hunter said softly.
“Sorry to talk about this with you after what you’ve just been through.”
