Page 123 of Seal the Deal

The kids relax, a few leaning back on their logs with reassurance. But it’s Charlie’s reaction I’mwatching for. Her lips curve into a small smile, and the tension in her shoulders eases. It’s like she needed to hear that as much as they did.

A warmth settles in my chest, knowing I made her feel safe.

"You got a lot of bear facts, huh?"

I shrug, smirking. "Guess I just know how to deal with danger when I see it."

***

Jake - Present Day

Noah and Meadow’s laughter fills the living room as I chase them, pretending to be a bear. It’s chaos—the kind I’ve come to love. Meadow tumbles over the rug, landing in a pile of cushions, her laughter infectious as she clutches her teddy bear.

A month’s passed since Christmas at the cabin, and every time I hear Charlie say she loves me, I feel it just as strong as the first time. Whenever I’m back from an away game, I’m here with Charlie and the kids. Every time I see her, I’m reminded of how much I love her, and I make sure she knows it.

I’m playing better than ever, and Coach has noticed. But when he asked me what’s changed, I just smirked. Can’t exactly tell him it’s because I’m head over heels for a woman who I get to rail every chance I get. Who makes every day a win.

“Gotcha!” I scoop Meadow up, growling playfully. Noah jumps onto the couch, dodging me as I pretend to swipe at him.

"Bear needs a snack," I rumble, carrying Meadow around as Noah squeals.

Across the room, Charlie leans against the kitchen counter, watching us with a smile. There’s something about the way she looks at me, that familiar pull always wanting her closer. Her hair’s piled in a messy bun, cheeks flushed from the heat of the stove. She’s cooking, glancing over every now and then to make sure no one gets hurt.But I know she trusts me. We’ve built that trust over these past few months.

"You're too good at that," Charlie teases, shaking her head as she slices vegetables. "Bear Jake might need to retire soon.”

I chuckle, setting Meadow down and kissing her forehead. "Bear Jake’s got a few good years left."

Moving to the kitchen, I brush my fingertips on the small of her back. The warmth of her skin through her shirt sends that familiar jolt through me. I’ve just got back from a string of away games and I’m desperate to get her alone.

She glances up at me, eyes glimmering with a playful challenge. "Careful, or I’ll add you to the dinner menu. Bears might not like that."

“Depends what’s on the menu,” I murmur just for her, leaning in. “Could be worth it.”

Her lips curl into a smile, and our eyes lock. My grin slips for a second as I let my gaze coast over her face, drinking her in. I’m about to pull her closer when the doorbell rings.

Charlie steps back, frowning. "Who could that be? It’s almost bedtime." She wipes her hands on a dish towel and heads for the door.

I follow on instinct. We weren’t expecting anyone, and an unannounced visitor at this hour is never a good sign.

When she opens the door, every bit of the evening’s warmth is sucked out instantly.

Because standing there, all smug like he owns the place, is Alex.

"Surprise," he says, his voice laced with fake enthusiasm. "Thought I’d swing."

Charlie's hand tightens on the door and her body goes rigid. "Alex? Wh-what are you doing here?"

Alex shrugs, glancing past her into the house. His eyes land on me, and his smile falters before snapping back. "I’m in town for business, so I figured I’d drop by. Spend some quality time withmykids.”

I stay back, leaning against the wall with my arms crossed, but every muscle in me is coiled tight. The memoryof him telling Meadow she was too old to call him Dada still burns, let alone the way he speaks to Charlie. My hand flexes at the thought, but I force myself to stay calm. This isn’t about me. It’s about the kids, and I won’t let him rile me up in front of them.

"It’s late, Alex," Charlie says, her voice taut. "The kids are getting ready for bed."

He smiles, but it’s all teeth. "Perfect timing then. I can read them a bedtime story." He steps forward like he’s going to push past her, but I move instinctively, closing in behind Charlie.

"Bedtime’s usually a family thing," I say, keeping my voice calm but eyes locked on his. "And right now, that’s us.” There’s no mistaking my possessiveness, but I don’t care. He needs to understand that it’s not just about him.

Alex’s eyes narrow at me, just for a second. He’s not used to being challenged, especially not by me. But I don’t back down.

---