The bear nodded, the gesture so human it made her heart squeeze with affection. Impulsively, Tessa leaned forward and pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead, the fur soft against her lips. The connection felt sacred somehow, a promise between them that transcended words.
The bear stepped back then, and Tessa knew what was coming. She watched in awe as the air crackled once more, the bear’s form shimmering before her eyes until Matt stood there again, his expression vulnerable yet hopeful.
“Are you okay?” he asked, his voice rough with emotion. “I know it’s a lot to take in.”
Tessa nodded, stepping closer to him. The evening air felt cool against her skin after the warmth of his fur, and she found herself missing the contact. “I’m more than okay,” she said. “I’m... amazed. Thank you for trusting me with this.”
Matt’s shoulders relaxed, tension draining from his body as he reached for her hands. “I was so afraid,” he admitted. “Afraid you’d run. Afraid you wouldn’t believe me. Afraid you’d believe me but wouldn’t want...” He swallowed. “Wouldn’t want me anymore.”
“Oh, Matt.” Tessa squeezed his hands, her heart aching at the vulnerability in his eyes. “I want you more now than ever. You trusted me with your truth. That means everything.”
She shivered slightly, the night air finally registering through her wonder. Matt immediately pulled her against his chest, his arms wrapping around her with protective warmth.
“You’re cold.”
“So what happens now?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she burrowed into him.
Matt’s gaze dropped to her lips, then back to her eyes. “Now,” he said slowly, “we go back inside. We can talk more if you want. Or...”
“Or?” Tessa prompted, heat rising to her cheeks despite the cool night air.
“Or we pick up where we left off,” Matt said, his voice deepening. “But only if you’re sure. Only if you want this—want me—knowing everything.”
Tessa considered his words carefully. This wasn’t just about physical attraction anymore. It was about accepting Matt completely—bear and all—and stepping into a world she hadn’t known existed until minutes ago.
But hadn’t she already been looking for a new direction? A new purpose? A place to belong?
She reached up, tracing the line of his jaw with gentle fingers. “I want to know everything about you, Matt Thornberg,” she said softly. “The man and the bear. And I think I’d like to start tonight.”
He lowered his head, pressing his forehead against hers. “You’re incredible,” he murmured. “Do you know that?”
Tessa smiled, her heart fit to burst. “Take me back inside,” she whispered. “I’m getting cold out here.”
Matt wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her close as they walked back toward the warm light of his cabin. “I’ll keep you warm,” he promised.
And Tessa believed him. Whatever this new reality meant—shifters and mates and bonds she didn’t fully understand yet—she knew one thing with absolute certainty: Matt Thornberg would keep her safe. Would keep her warm. Would give her the time and space to find her place in his world.
Chapter Eighteen – Matt
Matt had told her everything, and she had accepted him!
And no puking,his bear said happily.
Thanks, that is not the image I want in my head right now,Matt said as he led Tessa back inside.
No, there were much more enjoyable images he wanted to fill his senses with.
He closed the door behind them, Tessa’s hand still in his. He never wanted to let her go. Not ever.
Then you’ll have trouble getting naked,his bear said.
Isn’t it time for you to have a nap?Matt asked.
His bear huffed happily and settled down to have sweet dreams of their mate.
While Matt planned to create sweetmemories. The first of many.
“Do you want some more wine?” Matt asked, suddenly nervous as they stood facing each other in the kitchen where only a few moments ago they had shared a meal.
