Page 19 of His Treasured Mate

He wrapped his arms around me and pulled me to him. My big belly kept me from snuggling into him the way I wanted, but I loved how his fingers dug into my hips. It was so possessive and turned me on immediately.

Thomas sniffed the air and shook his head with a knowing smirk on his face.

“This doesn't change my protest,” I argued.

“Noted.”

He kissed me slowly at first and then more passionately.

“I'm okay, Slugger,” he whispered.

“I know. But I was scared.”

“I'm sorry I worried you.”

“Did you find the missing wolves?”

“Yeah. Hewitt and friends. They were most likely drunk and stumbled into shelter three.”

“Hewitt? You risked your life for that fool?”

“He's one of our wolves, babe.”

I sighed. “I know, but I don't have to like it.”

“I really am okay, Slugger.”

Pouting, I looked up at him. “I know. I can see that. But you scared me. And I may have sort of freaked out a bit when no one would tell me where you were.”

“Just a little?” he teased.

“Just a little.”

“It's okay. Everyone is accounted for. Everyone is safe. That's all that matters.”

I knew this man better than I even knew myself most times. His words were specific and there was worry in his eyes.

“How bad is it?”

I knew he didn't want to tell me. He hated worrying me, but I had to know, and I knew he wouldn't lie to me.

“It's bad, Lil. There is going to be a lot of damage. I haven't been able to bring myself to ask about the cattle yet.”

“It's going to be okay, Thomas. Like you said, we're all fine and that is the most important thing. The rest can be repaired or replaced.”

He nodded. While I knew he would never admit to being afraid of anything, not even to me, the look in his eyes told me it was more than just worry.

“It's late. Why don't you try to get some sleep? I'll have Sam come in and check on you before bed.”

I rolled my eyes. Sam was going to suffocate me before this kid arrives.

“Fine. But you'll lay down and rest at least?”

He clearly saw the annoyance on my face and knew me well enough to know I wasn't going to get much sleep tonight.

“I'll try. But no Sam.”

“No Sam.”