Page 48 of The Bear's Perfect Mate
One hand trailed down her stomach, finding the sensitive bundle of nerves where their bodies joined. His thumb circled with gentle pressure, drawing small, deliberate patterns that made Sophie’s rhythm falter. Her thighs trembled against his sides, her breathing quickening.
Sophie’s hips circled in an instinctive dance, seeking more contact, more friction. Nero matched her movements, thrusting upward as she pressed down, creating a perfect counterpoint of pleasure.
“Look at me,” Nero whispered, his free hand cupping her cheek.
Sophie’s eyes opened, dark with passion, meeting his gaze. The connection between them deepened, transcending the physical joining of their bodies. In that moment, it was as if their souls touched, as if he could feel the bond like a physical thing.
His thumb continued its gentle circles as he thrust more firmly, feeling her body tighten around him. Sophie’s movements became erratic, her breathing shallow and quick. Her fingers dug into his shoulders as she chased her release.
Then she cried out, her body arching as pleasure crashed over her. Nero held her steady through the waves of her climax, his hands strong and sure on her hips. The sight of her abandonedto ecstasy was his undoing. With a low growl, he thrust upward one final time, his own release pulsing deep within her.
She collapsed onto his chest, her body still trembling with aftershocks. Nero wrapped his arms around her, holding her close as their heartbeats gradually slowed. He pressed soft kisses to her temple, her cheek, the corner of her mouth, overwhelmed by tenderness.
“I never knew it could be like this,” Sophie murmured against his skin, her voice filled with wonder.
“Neither did I,” Nero admitted, stroking her back in long, soothing motions. “This is what it means to find your mate.”
They lay entwined, reluctant to separate, until the sunlight grew stronger and the day’s demands could no longer be ignored. Finally, Sophie stirred, propping herself up on his chest to look at him.
“The farmers’ market,” she said with a smile. “We should get going if we want the best selection.”
Nero laughed, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Always thinking about food.”
“Not always,” she replied, pressing a kiss to his chest. “But I do have a menu to create, and time is of the essence.”
With obvious reluctance, they disentangled themselves and prepared for the day. As Sophie showered, Nero made coffee, his movements light with happiness. His bear rumbled contentedly within him, satisfied in a way he had never experienced before.
She accepted us,his bear reminded him.All of us.
Yes, she sure did,Nero agreed, a smile spreading across his face as he relived making love to his mate. Over and over.
An hour later, they were in Nero’s car, heading toward Bear Bluff. Sophie had her notebook open on her lap, jotting down ideas for the vineyard menu as they drove.
“I’m thinking of a five-course progression,” she said, tapping her pen against the page. “Starting with something light. Then building through the courses to reflect the wine making process, from the vines to the finished product.”
As she spoke, sketching her culinary vision with growing excitement, Nero found himself falling even deeper in love with this remarkable woman. She had faced the impossible—the revelation of his true nature—and instead of running away, had embraced it completely. Had embraced him completely.
Nero pulled into the farmers’ market parking lot, finding a spot beneath the shade of an old oak tree. The market buzzed with activity—colorful canopies stretching across the open field, shoppers milling between stalls laden with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts.
“Ready?” he asked, turning to Sophie, who was still scribbling notes in her journal.
She looked up, eyes bright with anticipation. “Absolutely. I have a list of everything I need for the test recipes.”
“Already?” he asked as they got out of the car.
“What can I say?” she asked as she pulled on her sunhat. “I have found inspiration since I came to Bear Creek.”
“You have?” he asked with a seductive smile.
“I have,” she said as Nero reached for her hand without thinking. She slid her fingers into his and leaned into him.
His bear gave a contented huff.Ours.
The scent of fresh bread and roasting coffee greeted them as they entered the market. Sophie was already scanning the stalls, her attention caught by plump fruits and baskets of freshly cut herbs.
“Sophie? Sophie Truro?” a woman’s voice called out from a nearby vegetable stand.
Sophie turned, her expression shifting to pleased recognition. “Hello there! How are you?”
