Page 180 of Healed in the Alpha's Embrace
He gave me a small smile, but it was troubled. “That’s great, babe. l knew you would.”
“What’s wrong? Did something happen?”
He sighed heavily. “George is definitely behind the vandalism on the gym. He paid a rival gym to do it. And I also found some stuff out about my dad.”
“What did you find out?”
“My dad... he’s been betting on my fights. All these years, I thought he didn’t support me, but he bet on me every time. Every single time, no matter the odds.”
“Oh, Noah...” I wrapped my arms around his waist and hugged him tightly. I could feel the confusion radiating off him. His issues with his father ran very deep. “I’m so sorry about the gym, but isn’t your father betting on you a good thing?”
He rested his chin on my head and blew out a breath. “I don’t know what to think about my dad anymore. It’s good to know that he believed in me, but I wish he would have showed it. As for the gym and George, I no longer know who to trust. Except you.”
I tilted my face up to his. “Whatever George is up to, whatever is going on with your dad, we’ll handle it. I’m here for you. Always.”
Noah cupped my face between his hands. “I know, Zo. You’re my rock. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
My heart ached for him. “I didn’t know about the betting, but Christian did tell me he’s always supported you, even if he didn’t do it openly.” I shook my head. “I don’t understand why your father seemed so against you fighting, then went and bet on you.”
I actually had my suspicions about that, but I held my tongue. It was something Noah needed to hear directly from his father. “I really think you should talk to him. Get some clarity on all this.”
“Enough about my messed-up family,” he said after a moment. “What are your plans for the rest of the day? I’d really like to spend some alone time with you.”
I smiled softly, running my fingers through his sandy hair. “Well, I’m having lunch with Ro and my mother, but I’m free after that. And I’m sure Sam would be happy to have some guy time with Ro later.”
“I was thinking I might go see my dad today, but I have training with the kids, and then I have to meet the insuranceclaims adjuster at the gym.” He pursed his lips. “I promise I’ll talk to him soon, though.”
I understood the importance of that impending conversation. “I think that’s a good idea. In the meantime, let’s focus on the good stuff… like this alone time you mentioned.”
Noah chuckled, the sound rumbling through his chest pressed to mine. “Oh, I like the way you think, Ms. Lester.” He captured my lips in a searing kiss.
I let myself get lost in Noah’s embrace, our troubles momentarily forgotten. But sooner rather than later, we’d have to face it. All I could do was pray that we’d weather those storms as strongly united as we were in this perfect moment.
Ro ranoff to jump with his friend as soon as we entered the trampoline park. Mom and I settled on a nearby to keep an eye on them.
“So.” Mom crossed her legs and angled her body toward me. “How are things going with you and Noah?”
I grinned. “Really well, actually. I love him. More than I ever thought possible.”
My mother squeezed my hand. “I’m so glad to hear that, honey. You deserve happiness.”
I sighed, my gaze drifting to the colorful foam pits. “I do. And I believe Noah is the one who can give me that. But...” I hesitated, unsure how to verbalize my worries.
“But what, Zoey? You can tell me anything.” Her concerned expression prompted me to continue.
“Heather told me that Noah and I are fated mates. That we’re meant to be together. But he hasn’t brought it up at all. What if he doesn’t want to be my fated mate?”
She pursed her lips. “Well, have you considered that maybe he’s waiting for the right time? Or that he’s trying not to overwhelm you, given everything you’ve been through?”
I really hadn’t considered that. It was hard to think past my self-doubt. “I guess that makes sense. I just can’t help but worry sometimes. After George...” I swallowed hard.
“Oh, honey.” My mother put her arm around my shoulders. “I understand. But you’ve made so much progress. Don’t let those old fears hold you back from the love you deserve. Don’t let it do to you what it did to me.”
She was right. I had come a long way in rebuilding my confidence and sense of self-worth. I couldn’t let George’s abuse continue to taint my future.
“You’re right. I trust Noah. I know he cares about me. He loves me. I just need to keep working on letting go of those lingering doubts.” I leaned into her comforting embrace.
“That’s my girl.” Mom smiled proudly. “But are you sure you’re ready for this? From what I know, fated mates are a big deal, and it hasn’t been that long since you left George.”
