Page 102 of Rhett

He nuzzled my neck and then licked over my mating bite and growled, “Mine.”

CHAPTER28

NOVA

Hand in hand, Rhett and I strode through the forest, traipsing over the mossy green ground.

“This scenery is so beautiful,” I mused aloud.

“That it is,” Rhett agreed. “Just a few more minutes before we reach my favorite spot.”

My nose twitched at the smell of damp moss intermingled with the sweet scent of flowers. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting an otherworldly glow over the ground and large trees.

“We’re close,” he said.

I could hear the gurgling of water before we arrived at a large patch of earth overgrown with deep green moss and an absolutely breathtaking waterfall.

“It’s spectacular,” I whispered.

Rhett smiled. “I wanted your first time shifting to be somewhere you’d remember forever.”

“Thank you.” I squeezed his hand.

After my days of being in heat subsided, Rhett and I had spent quality time together just getting to know each other on a deeper level. During our time together, I had no words to describe how amazing my mate was. He was intelligent, nurturing, loving, protective, and funny.

Holding hands, we silently stared at the rainbows floating above the different parts of the waterfalls.

“This is a truly magnificent display of nature,” I told him.

“Yes, it’s the power of the waterfalls that leaves me speechless every time.” He released my hand, turning me to face him. “Are you ready?”

My heart thumped hard in my chest. “No.”

He tugged me against him, running his palm along my spine. “You can do this. I’ll shift first, okay?”

I nodded.

He released me, kicking off his sneakers and shedding his clothes. I followed by doing the same.

“The key to shifting is picturing your inner beast in your mind,” he instructed.

My eyes widened. “What? But I don’t know what she looks like.” Panic started to rise.

He grasped my chin, tipping my face up. “Nova.” I gazed up at his tanned face. “Close your eyes. Take a deep breath.”

I did as directed.

He continued. “Call her forward but not aloud. Just in your mind.”

I blew out a breath before calling out tentatively,Hello?

There was no response.

I tried again.Are you there?

I’m always here,my inner animal answered.

Relief flooded my body.Can you show me what you look like?I coaxed her.