His Plump Mate (by Buchanan) novel Chapter 11

**Rebel POV**

Navigating this conversation with Austin and Renz feels like trudging through a thick fog. Every word is heavy, laden with the weight of my past. Yet, Roxie’s voice echoes in my mind, urging me to lay bare my experiences. If Austin doesn’t turn away from me after hearing my truth, then perhaps I can finally let my guard down and trust him. Roxie has always been my guiding star, and I find solace in her instincts. My only hope is that he won’t judge me for my lack of education or the fact that my life has been defined by servitude and oppression.

As I begin to recount my life story, Austin’s questions punctuate my narrative, each one a gentle nudge to keep going. “What happens when people come over, darling? Didn’t they ever question your father about you?”

I avert my gaze, the sting of rejection from my father still fresh in my mind. “Well, going out was never an option for me. Eventually, I managed to persuade my dad to grant me one day off each month. It was a small victory that made Jules furious, but that one day became my sanctuary. The only other times I escaped the confines of our home was when we had guests. I’d prepare the evening meal, and then I’d leave until midnight, returning just in time to shower and collapse into bed. I counted myself fortunate if the water was lukewarm; most nights, I had to endure a cold shower.”

Austin’s reaction is immediate; he hisses, “Are you telling me that the shower you just had is the first hot shower you’ve experienced?” His eyes darken, and I can sense the wolf within him stirring, perhaps stirred by the truth of my words. I hope he isn’t angry with me.

Once more, I cast my eyes downward, attempting to mask my shame, and I nod. Austin’s grip on me tightens as he takes a deep breath, inhaling my scent. I can feel the tension in him ebb away, though I can’t tell if it’s from my scent or if he’s mentally counting to ten to regain his composure. He continues, “Last night, you seemed ready to rush back home because it was nearing midnight. Did you prepare a meal for guests then too?”

I can hardly believe that was just last night; it feels like a lifetime ago. “Yes,” I reply, my voice steady but my heart racing. “That was the most challenging meal I had to prepare.”

“Why was it so difficult?” Austin probes, his curiosity piqued. Anxiety grips me as I hesitate to divulge the truth, but Roxie’s encouragement rings in my ears: ‘You’re doing great, Rebel. Be honest with him. Cronos says they want to help us. Share everything. Don’t hold back.’

With a deep breath, I respond, “Alpha Cullen is seeking a chosen mate. He was supposed to come over for dinner to meet Rachel and assess whether she would be a suitable Luna.”

The growl that escapes Austin’s throat is primal, a clear indicator of his disdain for Alpha Cullen. I share that sentiment; I despise him too. “Rebel, I haven’t mentioned Alpha Cullen to Renz yet. Are you okay if I tell him?”

I glance at Austin, weighing my options. After a moment of contemplation, I let out a resigned sigh and nod.

“Renz,” Austin begins, “Two months ago, while Rebel was either out on a rare day off or waiting to return home, she discovered that Cullen was her fated mate. He rejected her on the spot.”

A furious growl erupts from Renz, his expression darkening. “You mean to say he rejected her and then planned to pursue her sister as his chosen mate? And Rebel, you had to prepare the meal for that?” His eyes are nearly black, a testament to the wolves stirring within them.

“To be fair, no one was aware of the rejection. I kept it to myself. I barely made it home after it happened, and that week was particularly rough since it coincided with Rachel’s 18th birthday party. I had to handle all the preparations. I honestly don’t know how I managed it.”

Both men regard me with disbelief. “You endured the pain of rejection alone and still managed to organize your sister’s party? Was Cullen present?”

“He was and wasn’t. Perhaps he was suffering too? If he was, then I’m glad I wasn’t the only one in pain,” I reply, bitterness creeping into my voice. That week had been nothing short of a nightmare.

“Fuck Cullen. You’re mine now.” Austin seizes my chin, tilting my face up to meet his gaze before capturing my lips in a swift, intense kiss. Heat floods my cheeks as I hear Renz snicker softly.

“Tell me something, sweetheart. You seem anxious around people, which, given your past, is understandable. But you don’t hesitate to put yourself in danger. Why is that?” Austin’s question is direct, and I feel a surge of confidence as I prepare to answer.

“Well, my dear mate, I’m a fierce fighter. My father trained me well, and he always said I was stronger than most male warriors. He claimed I could outmatch many betas he had faced. Roxie is also quick and powerful. We have no trouble defending ourselves or those we care about.”

Renz interjects, “But you trained in secret. How can you be so sure of your skills?”

“I’ve had to defend myself before, beta. Remember, I was often kicked out of the house until midnight. I’ve faced a rogue or two, sometimes even two at once. If you’re up for it, you’re welcome to test my skills,” I say, flashing a confident grin.

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