Page 14 of Bearly Believable Romance

“I don’t know about anybody else, but food is definitely my love language.”

The conversation flowed effortlessly as they enjoyed their meal, the flickering candlelight casting a romantic glow over their table. Bram listened intently to Tabitha’s stories, his eyes never leaving hers. She found herself getting lost in his deep, soulful gaze, her heart fluttering with every smile he sent her way.

After their plates were cleared and the bill settled, Bram stood and extended his hand to Tabitha. “I have a surprise for you. Come with me.”

Intrigued, Tabitha placed her hand in his, relishing the warmth and strength of his grip. Bram led her through the town, the cool evening breeze caressing their skin as they walked hand in hand.

As they approached the pristine lake that bordered Whispering Pines, Tabitha gasped. “Oh, Bram. It’s beautiful.”

Bobbing gently in the water was a charming wooden boat adorned with twinkling fairy lights. Bram helped her aboard, his strong arms guiding her safely onto the cushioned seats.

With a gentle push, they set off across the tranquil waters, the soft lapping of the waves against the boat creating a soothing melody. Tabitha trailed her fingers through the cool water, marveling at the way the stars flickered overhead, their reflection dancing on the mirror-like surface of the lake.

Bram shifted closer, his arm wrapping around Tabitha’s shoulders, pulling her into a warm embrace. She melted into his touch, her head resting on his broad chest as they watched the heavens.

“This is perfect,” Tabitha whispered, tilting her head to look up at Bram. “Thank you for tonight. I have never had a real date this wonderful.”

Bram smiled softly, his hand coming up to caress her cheek. “Fake relationship or not, a woman like you deserves to be romanced.”

Oh, man. He said the words in a rough tone that made her heart skip a beat.

“You’re really good at this romance stuff.”

He leaned into her in a slow motion, giving her a chance to back out. She waited. His lips brushed over hers in a featherlight caress. “You deserve all the happiness in the world, Tabitha. I’m just grateful to be a part of it.”

He took her lips again. This time in a passionate kiss that left her breathless. Tabitha’s heart raced, her fingers tangling in his hair as she pulled him closer, deepening the kiss.

It was not at all the light taps she’d expected. This was a man kissing her in full-hunger mode. He kissed her deeply and so skillfully, she lost herself in his touch.

When they parted, Tabitha playfully raised an eyebrow. “I thought we agreed to keep things PG, mister. That was definitely NC-17.”

Bram chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “I don’t recall ever agreeing to that.”

Tabitha laughed, swatting his chest lightly. “You are one bad bear, you know that?”

“Only when it comes to you,” Bram winked, pulling her in for another kiss.

As they sailed past the shore, the townspeople gathered there waved, their smiles and cheers made her forget this romance was all for show.

Throughout the enchanting boat ride, Bram continued to shower Tabitha with affectionate gestures and stolen kisses, each one igniting a spark within her. The way he held her close, the way his lips lingered on hers, the way his eyes shone with genuine adoration—it all made Tabitha’s feelings for him grow stronger with every passing moment. That in itself was dangerous enough, but the depth of how much she wanted him was even more so.

NINE

Bram adjusted his flannel shirt for the tenth time as he examined his reflection in the bathroom mirror. His dark hair was freshly trimmed, beard neatly groomed, but his amber eyes betrayed the nerves jangling inside him. Tonight was the big family dinner to officially introduce Tabitha as his girlfriend. His mate.

Sure, their relationship had started as a ruse, a pretend affair to get his matchmaking mother off his back and help Tabitha meet the terms of her inheritance. But over the past week as he’d gotten to know the beautiful, spirited witch, Bram’s feelings had grown decidedly real. The protective instincts of his bear surfaced whenever she was near, urging him to claim her, make her his forever. But he needed to take this slow; romance Tabitha properly until she fell as hard for him as he already had for her.

A sharp rap on the front door jolted him from his reverie. He bounded down the stairs, taking them two at a time, and flung the door open to reveal his mother. She bustled past him into the house, arms laden with covered dishes and a determined glint in her eye.

“Bram, dear, don’t just stand there gawking. Help your mother!” She thrust a casserole dish into his hands. “Everything must be perfect for Tabitha’s official introduction to the family.”

Bram trailed after her into the kitchen, a fond grin tugging at his lips. “Mom, you don’t need to make such a fuss. Tabitha already knows most of the family from around town.”

“Pish posh.” Avelyn waved a dismissive hand as she arranged place settings on the long dining table. “This is different. This is her debut as your girlfriend. The whole town is buzzing about your romantic boat ride the other night.”

Heat crept up Bram’s neck as he recalled that date with Tabitha. The way the setting sun had gilded her blonde hair, the musical lilt of her laugh as they traded stories, the brush of her hand against his sending sparks skittering across his skin. He’d wanted to kiss her so badly...

Avelyn’s voice cut into his thoughts. “I’m just so happy you’ve found love, Bram. I knew Tabitha was a wonderful girl the minute I met her.”

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