Mine,her thoughts sang to him.
Forever,he responded, and she felt his overwhelming love surround her like a warm embrace, pure and unguarded. The bliss of their union pulsed between them, a living thing that bound them together for eternity.
In that space, which felt like the heart of the universe itself, there was no separation between them, no barriers, no secrets. His strength became hers; her trust became his, creating an unbreakable connection that transcended time and space.
Slowly, the radiant brilliance faded, and they found themselves back in the candlelit bedroom, their bodies warm from the aftermath of their mating. Dom’s eyes, still luminous with wonder, gazed down at her with awe and tenderness.
When reality returned, they collapsed together. The mate bond settled into place between them like a warm current, carrying emotions and thoughts she was only beginning to understand.
“I can feel you,” she whispered in wonder, testing the mental connection and feeling his love flowing back to her through the bond.
“We’re really mated now,” Dom said, his voice filled with awe as he held her close.
They were mates, bonded for life, two halves of a perfect whole.
Chapter
Twenty-Six
Dom closedthe last case file on his desk and leaned back in his chair, watching the late afternoon sun filter through the windows of Steel Protection headquarters. Six months ago, this building had been nothing more than a furnished office space and hope. Now, it hummed with the energy of a thriving business.
His computer screen displayed twelve active contracts across three counties. Corporate security consultations, personal protection details, and law enforcement partnerships that had transformed Steel Protection from suspicious outsiders into the region’s premier security firm.
“Steel Protection, this is Valeria. How can I help you?”
Dom’s attention shifted to the reception desk where his mate handled their incoming calls with the same calm professionalism that had made her an excellent police officer. Five months pregnant and glowing with health, she fielded client inquiries with the perfect blend of warmth and competence that immediately put people at ease.
Her police background had proven invaluable in ways he’d never anticipated. Law enforcement agencies specifically requested to work with Officer Steel, knowing her expertise bridged the gap between private security and official procedure. Clients trusted her judgment implicitly, and Dom often deferred to her legal knowledge.
“Yes, we can absolutely coordinate with county dispatch on that,” Valeria said. “Let me transfer you to our tactical coordinator.”
She pressed a button and looked up at Hunter, who was organizing files at his workstation. “Corporate client needs integration with emergency services. Standard protocols?”
Hunter nodded respectfully. “I’ll handle it. Thanks, Valeria.”
Dom’s chest tightened with pride as he watched his pack’s natural deference to his pregnant mate. They’d all fallen into protective patterns around her without being asked, adjusting their movements and voices to accommodate her condition while never treating her as fragile.
Ryder appeared from the equipment room, consulting his tablet. “Weekend schedules are set.”
“Good,” Dom said, closing his laptop. “Any word from the Nevada contract?”
“Wrapped up clean,” Siren reported from her desk, where intelligence reports were spread in organized stacks. “Client’s satisfied, payment confirmed. Three referrals already came in.”
Blaze emerged from the small kitchen area, wiping his hands on a towel. “Dinner’s in the slow cooker. Should be ready inan hour.” His attention shifted to Valeria. “How are you feeling today?”
“Much better,” Valeria replied, her smile warm. “Second trimester is definitely an improvement.”
Dom felt his wolf rumble with deep satisfaction as he observed the scene. His pack was prosperous and secure. His mate was healthy and content, with their child growing safely inside her.
Axel finished securing the communications equipment. “Everything’s locked down for the night.”
“Good work, everyone,” Dom said, standing and stretching. “Enjoy your night.”
Valeria adjustedthe strap of her market bag and breathed in the crisp mountain air, her bear stirring as autumn scents filled her nostrils. The Saturday morning market buzzed with activity around them, vendors arranging fresh displays of produce, families browsing with children in tow, the comforting sounds of a community coming together.
The morning sickness that had plagued her first trimester had faded, replaced by the energetic glow everyone kept commenting on. Her hand rested naturally on the gentle curve of her belly, where their baby had been increasingly active.
Dom’s large hand found the small of her back as they navigated between stalls. Six months ago, that protective instinct had felt overwhelming, controlling. Now it simply felt like love.
