Page 51 of His Stubborn Bear

“I just got my knot for the first time.” Gabe sounded utterly pleased with himself.

“What’s that?” I asked, brow furrowing.

“When a shifter meets and claims his mate, a knot forms at the base of his cock, keeping him locked inside of his mate.” I didn’t miss the wonder in Gabe’s voice.

“It didn’t happen last time,” I pointed out. Gabe lay us down gently so we were on our sides. “Why now?”

“Because I claimed you.” There was that pride-filled tone again.

I chuckled. “Ahh.”

Gabe was mine. And I guess if I’d had any doubts, there was a physical sign.

Gabe’s arms tightened around me, and he leaned up on his elbow and examined the bite wound he’d left, tracing it gently. Then I felt his lips brush over it.

“Will it scar?” I asked.

“Yes. But only lightly. It will let shifters know we’re mated.” Again, there was deep satisfaction in his voice.

I grinned at the pride he felt for claiming me. “You’re happy about that,” I said.

“Happier than I’ve ever been, baby,” Gabe said and kissed the mark again.

“You’re mine now.”

I grinned. “I’m good with that.”

I’d never felt so content before, and I dozed off a little, secure that this time I would be waking up in Gabe’s arms.

I wasn’t sure how much time had passed when I finally felt the knot recede. My life was so weird.Not that you’re complaining.

Gabe groaned as his softening cock slid slowly from my body. And I missed the fullness.

Still, I couldn’t stop smiling as Gabe nuzzled the mate mark on my neck. He tenderly stroked my sweat-damp hair.

“So.” I turned so I was facing Gabe. The happy and contented look on his face made my heart sing. “Do I get a knot every time?” I asked.

Gabe chuckled. “Like it, do you?” he teased.

I shrugged. “Wasn’t bad.”

Gabe snorted and tickled me. “I’ll show you ‘wasn’t bad.’”

We ended up kissing again until we both had to break apart for air.

“I have so much to learn,” I said.

“I’ll help, my love, and so will Rhys and my papa, trust me. You’re family now.”

Family. That sounded perfect.

I really wished my parents could have gotten to meet Gabe. My papa had always saidfind someone that deserves you. I had a feeling Papa would agree that Gabe did.

16

Gabe

I couldn’t remember ever being sohappy. My bear was purring in happiness even though the beast still wanted to be officially introduced to our mate. But there was time enough for that. Kian was here. He was mine. And he was claimed.