Page 46 of Wedding for My Werewolf

“Gone,” his mother answered, and his world tilted slightly when she turned to Robin with an approving smile. “He showed up, but we sent him running.”

His claws retracted slowly as he forced down his rage, listening to Robin recount what happened.

“He kicked down the door and said I was coming with him. I told him I wasn’t going anywhere.”

“You should have seen her, Eric.” His mother’s voice held unexpected warmth. “Standing there like she owned the place. A true alpha’s mate. A true sheriff’s mate,” she added slowly and his world tilted again.

It almost sounded as if his mother had finally accepted his choice.

“But then that evil bastard tried to grab her anyway. I clawed him and when he turned on me, Robin smashed the lamp over his head. That took the fight right out of him.” His mother beamed at Robin, then looked down at her hand as her claws retracted. “I do hope I didn’t break a nail.”

“But you’re all right?” he demanded as he grabbed Robin’s shoulders, checking for injuries.

“I’m fine.”

Her voice was a little shaky but she gave him a radiant smile. She was so much stronger than she knew—surviving on her own for so long, and now facing Thatcher without backing down. His wolf preened at having chosen such a worthy mate, even as he reminded himself that they weren’t truly mated.

His mother’s eyes gleamed as she watched them. “Well, I suppose I should go. But don’t wait too long to give me grandchildren. I want at least three.”

He choked on air while Robin’s face flamed red. His mother swept towards the door with a satisfied smirk, leaving them in stunned silence. But she paused next to him for a moment, her hand settling on his shoulder.

“Keep her safe, son,” she said quietly.

His wolf basked in the moment. His mother, who’d spent years pushing suitable Pack females at him, who’d insisted on maintaining every ancient tradition, had just embraced a human as his mate.

The door clicked shut behind his other, and he turned back to his mate. Her smile had faded and she swayed slightly. He suspected the adrenaline from the fight was wearing off, and he quickly put his arms around her.

“Little bird, you scared the shit out of me.”

“I was terrified, but I wasn’t going to let him take me. And your mother was amazing.”

He stroked her hair.

“I’m so proud of you for standing up to him.”

“I’m kind of proud of myself too. Although he did get away.”

“That’s fine.” He nuzzled her cheek, breathing in her sweet scent. “As long as you’re safe.”

She leaned into his touch.

“I’m glad you came back early.”

“Me too.” He kissed the top of her head, breathing her in again.

“Did you find out anything useful?”

“I’m afraid not, but I’ll keep digging. I’ll also have Judge Baker issue a warrant for Thatcher’s arrest.”

“You can do that/”

He grinned and gestured at the broken door.

“I most certainly can. That’s breaking and entering. If you and my mother haven’t already scared him off, I’m pretty sure the thought of being arrested will. He must have known he was taking a chance.”

“He didn’t expect me to fight back.”

“But you did. You’re not a mouse, are you, little bird?”

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