Page 68 of Sweet Heart for the Bear

But we are not alone yet.

There is one person who apparently still has something to say.

I lick my lips, my heartbeat pounding too loud, too fast, and wait for Uncle Uzzi to speak.

His sharp, perceptive gaze settles on me, assessing in that way that makes me feel like he can see things I haven’t even figured out yet.

If Shifters are real, then maybe what I overheard about this man is real, too. He’s a Witch. One with real magic.

And if I am not mistaken, that little dating app he created has led me to my fated mate.

Oh my gah. I have a fated mate. I’m not going to be alone.

Because, let’s face it, that is the worst thing I can think of.

Never knowing true love.

Having to grow old alone.

The white-haired Witch interrupts my spiraling thoughts.

“Carina,” he begins, his voice gentle but firm, “are you okay with me leaving you here with Horace?”

The room feels too quiet.

I squirm, feeling put on the spot.

Horace stiffens beside me, his fingers twitching against his knee. His entire massive frame coiled tight like he’s preparing for a blow he can’t stop.

Uncle Uzzi continues, his expression unreadable.

“If you do not want to stay—either here right now, or in this mating at all—you only have to say the word. Seeing as how Horace forgot to explain what he was before he claimed you, you have every right to walk away.”

Horace makes a low sound, something half-growl, half-pained exhale, but he doesn’t speak.

He’s waiting.

For me to walk away.

Uzzi’s sapphire eyes hold mine, steady and unwavering.

“I swear,” he says, his voice thick with something ancient and powerful, “I will do everything in my considerable power to help you if that is what you choose.”

I believe him.

I let his words sink in, weighing them carefully, turning them over in my mind.

And the truth?

The truth hits me like a freight train.

I don’t want to leave.

Not this penthouse.

Not Horace.

Not now.

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