Page 65 of His True Mate

“I honestly don’t know. I’ve never met the guy and I have no idea how much of a hothead he is. If he knows what’s good for him then he’ll think twice about trying to come into my territory and demand anything.”

Winnie

Chapter 16

I couldn’t stop smiling all day as I went about my chores, humming a little tune.

Dalton grinned at me. “You look mighty happy, Miss Winnie.”

“I am. I really am.”

“Heard that boy was over here causing trouble last night.”

I snorted. “Not exactly. He’s just not too keen on me hanging out with a bunch of unmated males. Better watch yourself, that probably includes you, handsome.”

“Don’t you go getting sweet on me, missy. I like my throat just fine right where it is.”

I threw my head back and laughed.

“They’re all the same, half out of their minds during the mating period. I’m a little surprised by your Clay though. He’s normally got a calm nature. Didn’t expect to see him get so possessive even over a mate.”

I shrugged. “I don’t mind, I kinda like it when he gets all growly.”

He rolled his eyes. “Of course you do. Just don’t leave that poor boy in this state for too long, ya here?”

I stopped what I was doing and turned to look at him. “What do you mean?”

“Well, are ya planning to stick around?”

“Yes.”

“And is he or is he not your true mate?”

“He is.”

“Then tell that boy to claim you already. His wolf will settle significantly when that happens. Don’t worry, I suspect he’ll always be a bit overprotective and growly where you’re concerned.”

I hadn’t really thought a lot about the next step. Would he even want to claim me?

I grinned at the ridiculous thought. Yes, there was no doubt in my mind, Clay would be fine with claiming me sooner rather than later.

“But we just met,” I blurted out. “Not even a week ago.”

“Bah, so what? If it’s meant to be, then why drag it out? Too many of you young people trying to put human standards on mother nature.”

“Did you ever take a mate?”

There was a dark sadness surrounding him at my question.

“Yes, I did. She was the prettiest thing to ever set foot in Collier Pack.”

“Were you true mates?”

“Yup. Our bond wasn’t fully sealed when she passed so I couldn’t follow her into the next life.”

“I’m so sorry. Any children?”

“No. We were never blessed with a babe. These beasts are the closest thing I’ve got to children.”