His Plump Mate (by Buchanan) novel Chapter 18

**Austin POV**

As dawn broke, the sensation of Rebel’s warm mouth enveloping my cock felt like a fantasy materializing into reality. Those luscious, slightly swollen lips, so eager and inviting, had me instantly hard again. My little mate was turning into quite the minx, and I couldn’t wait to explore every inch of her.

I reveled in the fierce way she claimed me, just as I claimed her. It struck me that instead of declaring, “I’m yours,” she had said, “I’m hers.” The mate bond had snapped into place last night, and I could feel her tender love blossoming, intertwined with an unwavering trust in me. It was a beautiful thing to witness; she felt safe and protected in my presence. Knowing that she trusted me to keep her secure and cherished filled me with a sense of pride. My mate wanted me as her partner, and I’d be damned if I let anyone threaten that bond. I would protect her fiercely, no matter the cost.

Watching her surrender beneath me this morning had been exhilarating. The thrill of pinning her down, feeling her give in willingly to my dominance, sent a rush of excitement through me. I had countless experiences yet to share with her, and I couldn’t help but wonder what hidden desires I would unlock within her as we journeyed together.

As we made our way to the dining hall, I caught a whiff of her scent—rich and heavy with mine. The possessive Alpha within me swelled with satisfaction; she was no longer unmarked and unmated. She was mine, and my mark on her would remain forever.

Upon entering the dining hall, I guided my newly marked mate with care, pulling out her chair and ensuring she was comfortable before I took my seat. Renz and Lacy were already at the table, and as soon as Lacy caught sight of us, she squeaked in delight while Renz slapped me on the shoulder, grinning widely. “Those are some impressive marks, Alpha and Luna! Congratulations!” he exclaimed, his voice full of warmth.

“Rebel, we are definitely having a chat later!” Lacy practically bounced in her chair, her excitement palpable.

The murmurs of other pack members filled the air, growing into a chorus of clapping and cheering. I glanced at Rebel, and I could see the blush creeping onto her cheeks. My fierce little fighter, so demanding and strong, still had that adorable shyness when it came to receiving attention. It was utterly charming.

I stood up, raising my hand to quiet the room. “Alright, everyone! Thank you for the warm wishes. As you can all see, this beautiful woman beside me is unequivocally mine.” A ripple of laughter and knowing smirks spread through the crowd. Who would have thought our pack would be so thrilled for us? I continued, “While I haven’t had the chance to discuss everything in detail with my mate, I want to solidify her position within our pack. Therefore, I’m pleased to announce that we will be holding a Luna Ceremony in one week’s time.”

The hall erupted into cheers and joyous shouts for Rebel and me. After years of waiting, the pack was finally getting their Luna, and I could feel the overwhelming emotions radiating from Rebel. She was unaccustomed to such attention, so I decided to wrap up my announcement. “I will provide everyone with the exact day and time soon, and we will celebrate together when the moment arrives. Thank you all for your support.”

I returned to my seat and pressed a gentle kiss to Rebel’s temple. I could sense her uncertainty. She looked up at me, her eyes wide with curiosity. “What exactly is a Luna Ceremony?”

Before I could respond, Lacy jumped in, “Girl, I’ve got you! Alpha, if it’s alright, I’d love to help Rebel with the preparations. I’ll handle everything, and we can go over the details together. Rebel already has the dress; we picked it out yesterday!”

I turned to Rebel, my brow raised in question. “Do you want Lacy to explain it and help organize everything, darling?”

The relief that washed over her was palpable as she nodded, her voice filled with gratitude. “I would really appreciate the help. I’ve never organized something like this before.” She grasped Lacy’s hand like it was a lifeline. “Thank you, Lacy. I could use all the assistance I can get.”

Renz shifted the conversation, “Alpha, we still need to interrogate the rogue.”

“Right! I’m coming with you.” Rebel interjected before I could respond.

I opened a mind link with Rebel, Renz, and Lacy. *I want Rebel with us. She has mentioned that her wolf is a unique gift—like a blend of a lie detector and a truth serum.*

“Absolutely! Roxie and I can get the truth out of the rogue and figure out what’s happening. After that, Lacy and I can start planning the Luna Ceremony,” Rebel chimed in.

*Wait a minute,* Lacy interjected, *Roxie is gifted, and you’re only now telling me this? Girl, we need to chat!*

I rolled my eyes, *Lacy, no using Roxie’s gift for mischief. Behave!* I scolded, suppressing a laugh at her exaggerated pout. Even Renz chuckled at her antics.

“Leave it to my mate to seek out trouble,” Renz teased, his laughter echoing in the air.

I decided to break up the playful banter, taking Rebel’s hand firmly in mine. I signaled to Renz that it was time to focus on the rogue. He planted a kiss on his mate before we headed towards the dungeon where the rogue was being held.

As we approached, I noticed a shift in Rebel’s demeanor; it seemed Roxie was now in control. “Roxie?” I asked, concerned. “Is everything alright?”

“Yes, mate. You need me here right now, not Rebel,” Roxie replied, her aura radiating an unusual energy—almost akin to Alpha energy, which was unexpected.

“Have you done this before, or do you just know you can?” I probed, intrigued.

“Does it matter?” she shot back, raising an eyebrow. “When I’m doing my thing, you and Renz need to stand behind me. Don’t position yourselves to the side or in front. The backlash can be brutal if you don’t.”

I raised my own eyebrow, “What do you mean? You know I’m a powerful Alpha, right?”

She smirked, “And you know I’m moon goddess blessed, right?”

I chuckled, “You and Rebel are definitely the sassiest women I know. I’m getting double-teamed here.”

“Don’t worry, Alpha, we’ll go easy on you,” she quipped, and I couldn’t help but thin my lips at her sarcasm. Renz burst into laughter at my expense.

“Roxie, we are going to be best friends,” Renz teased, directing his playful jabs at me.

We finally arrived at the cell where the rogue was confined, chained to the wall with silver restraints. I entered the cell, flanked by Renz and then my mate. I hardened my gaze, projecting my aura towards the rogue.

“What’s your name?” I began, my voice low and commanding.

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