“Yes,” I whisper back, lifting a brow at the bunny.
“Are you ready to kick everyone out yet?” she asks, licking the chip crumbs from her fingers.
“Almost,” I admit.
“I have plans soon,” she says.
“Really?” I give her all my attention.
“Yeah, I’m meeting a woman.” She grins devilishly.
“Good. Let me know how it goes.” Juliana’s mom will get what she deserves.
“Sure thing.” She steps away, but pauses. “Heath.”
“Mmm…” I look at my mate.
“You're one of us,” she says softly, and I can’t meet her eyes. “You don’t have to stand on the outside anymore.”
“I know,” I say quietly and glance at her. “I know,” I repeat, and she nods. She weaves through the crowd saying her goodbyes. They love her and express disappointment as she announces her plans to leave. Bash leans down and whispers in her ear.
“Be safe. Call if you are in trouble,” he grumbles, and my lips twitch. Her face softens and her eyes sparkle. Sally found her family.
I look around in wonder. They have carved a place filled with acceptance, love, friendship, loyalty, and family. They are mine now. I didn’t fully grasp the world they built until now. Juliana has a family, and so do I.
My cane taps on the floor as I walk to my mate. I nod to the group and grab her hand. Micah grins and nods as I look at him pointedly while I pull Juliana away. He will usher everyone out and lock the door.
“Heath, are you okay?” she asks when I open the basement door.
“Yes, open your senses.” I place my hand on her back and guide her through the door. I quickly enter the code.
“Oh,” she breathes, descending the stairs. She remains silent as I make sure we are secured in our home and lets me pull her into the bedroom. Once she clears the threshold, I place my cane against the wall, close the door, and lean against it. She faces me and waits expectantly. “Does Sir want to play?” I can smell her heat rising.
“I always want to play with you, darling,” I hum, crossing my arms. “Take off your clothes,” I demand and grin when she doesn’t hesitate. Greedily, I watch as her beautiful body is revealed. Her hair is wild, and her body is eager. Her thoughts are wicked and my grin widens.
“Sir,” she says, dropping her panties to the floor. I crook my finger.
“Come here.” She eliminates the space between us. I graze my knuckles across her jaw. “I love you.”
“I love you, too.”
“Are you ready to see the beast?” I ask, tilting my head.
“Always.” She bites her lip, and I run my thumb across it before dropping my arm.
“Get on your knees,” I command, and she keeps her eyes on mine as she does. “So good, darling. You please me, mate,” I hiss, and the love shining in her eyes almost brings me to my knees.
I am arrogant, powerful, and love control. All the things my mate loves about me, and I enjoy every second while she shows me how much.
Epilogue
Sally
Fluffingmyhair,Irun my hand down my bright red, tight-as-fuck dress as I saunter across the dark bar. I grin at the appreciative looks but keep my attention on the target. She is sitting at the end of the bar wearing a short skirt and an off-the-shoulder shirt. Her eyes scan the crowd while she fiddles with the cup in front of her. Her head jerks my way when I sit beside her.
“That seat is taken,” she snaps.
“This seat.” I point at my lap and settle, crossing my legs.