His Plump Mate (by Buchanan) novel Chapter 20

**Austin POV**

As I hold my mate in my arms, my lips brush against the mark on her neck, a silent promise of protection. “You can’t go back to Ironclaw,” I tell her, my voice firm but gentle. It’s not about controlling her; it’s about keeping her safe. Renz is already delving into the Blue Moon pack, assessing the looming threat posed by Alpha Kaden. I’m a ruthless Alpha, a hard man by necessity, but my heart aches at the thought of Rebel facing danger.

“I want you to understand, I will have guards watching over you at all times, Rebel,” I insist, my tone brooking no argument. “I can’t afford to let anyone get to you. You’re a fierce fighter, I’ve seen that firsthand during the skirmish with the rogues, but until we get this figured out, I need to keep a close eye on you.” I gaze into her eyes, kissing her temple softly, bracing myself for her inevitable pushback. I know she’s scared; she’s used to battling her demons alone. But now, she has me, and I won’t let anything harm my mate.

She exhales slowly and meets my gaze. “Okay, I get it. BUT I will only agree to this if Lacy is part of my guard. Assuming she’s on board, of course.” A smile breaks across my face as I lean in to kiss her, feeling relief wash over me.

“I’m really glad you and Lacy are hitting it off. We can talk to her and Renz about it tomorrow morning at breakfast,” I reply, placing another kiss on my mark. I hear her gasp softly, and I can’t help but smile against her neck. “Now, I must admit, I’m quite eager to see my sexy mate in that red lace,” I growl playfully in her ear, watching as her body responds, a delightful shiver running through her.

She turns to me, a playful grin lighting up her face. “You might want to step out of the bathroom and wait for me outside, then.”

I beam at her, unable to hide my excitement. “Just don’t keep me waiting too long, my darling. My restraint might just vanish if you take your time.”

Her laughter dances in the air. “Restraint? You? I don’t want you to have any,” she teases, biting her lip. The playful challenge ignites a fire within me, and I want to claim her right there in the tub. But she halts my advance, playfully shoving me out of my own bathroom.

***

**Rebel POV**

There’s something about Austin that can flip my mood on a dime. One moment I’m nervous and anxious, and the next, I’m filled with a burning desire. After I kick him out, I dry off and slip into the red lace ensemble. I have no clue what possessed me to let Lacy convince me to buy this tiny outfit, but I make a mental note to thank her later.

I decide to have a little fun and tease my mate. He loves my body, and that gives me the confidence to flirt with him without feeling too self-conscious. I open the door just a crack, letting my bare left leg peek through before retreating behind the door. The growl that escapes him sends a delightful shiver down my spine.

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