His Plump Mate (by Buchanan) novel Chapter 34

**Austin POV**

From that fateful night spent with my mate, the atmosphere between Rebel and me has shifted remarkably. She finally peeled back the layers of her heart, revealing the deep-seated fears that have haunted her for so long. I can comprehend why she holds onto the notion that I might change my mind about her. Her past is a tapestry woven with threads of neglect and inconsistency—love has been a fleeting shadow in her life, if it existed at all.

Since that pivotal moment, Rebel has immersed herself in learning with an insatiable hunger. She has also made strides to be more visible within the pack, stepping out from the shadows where she once lingered. Yet, a part of me still wonders if her previous reticence stemmed from a fear that I, too, might withdraw my affection. But I choose not to revisit that conversation; it has borne fruit in her newfound confidence.

When I entered the library to see her, I was completely unaware that my disheveled state would intrigue her. Covered in grime from working alongside the warriors in the mines, I felt anything but appealing. Yet, to my astonishment, Rebel found my ‘rugged’ look enticing. I had been laboring to fortify the mine’s structure, ensuring the safety of the miners—a task that left me looking like I had just emerged from a battle.

The thought of her desire for me ignites a fire within. I yearn to lose myself in her, to become one with her in the most profound sense. Each moment spent entwined with her feels like a slice of paradise, a blissful escape from the chaos of our lives.

What fills me with immense pride, however, is witnessing her take charge, leading my warriors in constructing the smokers. Her keen intellect shines through in her designs and her ability to build. It serves as a bitter reminder of the potential she could have unlocked much earlier, had her education not been so cruelly stripped away from her.

Renz returned with the scouts, bringing news about her family imprisoned in the dungeons. I felt a surge of determination to send Dylan back; he had been there before and might forge a bond with the omega he previously encountered. Perhaps, that connection could persuade the omega to assist us in rescuing Rebel’s family. They owe us answers and, more importantly, they must face the consequences of their actions against her.

To my surprise, Dylan not only managed to see her again but also learned that this omega visits the Lawson house weekly to maintain its cleanliness. During one of her visits, while delivering food to the dungeon for Rebel’s family, she discovered that Cullen only intended to keep them locked away until Rebel was aware of their presence. He had manipulated her into believing he was serving justice for her, only to release them when she was confined to the packhouse, isolated until Cullen desired to exert his control over her.

Dylan informed me that he was befriending Mary, the omega. Since she provides them with meals, it would be simpler to enlist her help in freeing Rebel’s family. Mary has already expressed her willingness to assist. According to my scout, she has always been troubled by the way Rebel was treated. It infuriated her that the other omegas could not extend friendship to Rebel, resorting instead to fleeting gestures of gratitude for the intricate meals she prepared for guests. Those moments were brief and fraught with risk; they could easily lose their positions in the Lawson household for showing kindness.

Mary also mentioned that there are two additional omegas who would be eager to join our cause in seeking real justice for Rebel. In all of this, I see a glimmer of hope; Rebel was loved in that environment, yet fear held them back from expressing it openly due to the looming threat of retaliation from her family. It warms my heart to know that there are individuals in the Ironclaw pack who genuinely wish to show compassion toward my mate.

Dylan then shared something that caught me off guard. “Alpha, Mary and the other two omegas who are willing to help us also expressed a desire to leave Ironclaw. They asked if we could permit them to join Blackstone. I told them that such a decision rests solely with you as the Alpha.”

“Excellent work, Dylan, in everything you’ve achieved over these past few days. What are your thoughts on the three omegas?”

His surprise at my inquiry is evident. Yet, it makes perfect sense; he has built a rapport with them, and his perspective is valuable.

“Well, Alpha, they have been nothing short of cooperative. They genuinely care about our Luna and seem to harbor a strong disdain for Luna’s family and Alpha Cullen. I believe their values align with ours.”

Pleased with his assessment, I respond, “Very good. Inform them that I will meet with them upon their arrival and extend an invitation to join our pack. Once again, commendable work, Dylan.”

As he turns to leave, I find my thoughts drifting to the whirlwind of events that have unfolded over the past few weeks. From discovering my incredible mate to unearthing the dark truths surrounding her family and that despicable Cullen, to Alpha Kaden and Rebel’s mother’s pack—it’s a lot to process. I realize I need to reach out to my mother; she has been on an extended vacation on some distant island. I genuinely wish for her presence during the Ceremony. It should have been on my mind sooner.

I must also discuss these revelations with Rebel, ensuring she is aware of the truth before anyone attempts to deceive her. My mate is undeniably intelligent, but she is still navigating the complexities of social interactions. I am grateful she has Roxie; her wolf is extraordinary and will help Rebel discern who is genuine and who is not.

Additionally, I must inform her about my parents. Though my father may be gone, my mother has a way of ensuring I remember to mention my mate and the Luna Ceremony. It completely slipped my mind—I had been too absorbed in enjoying the time spent with my mate.

During dinner, I inform Rebel that we need to retreat to my office to discuss the findings from the scouts. Almost immediately, Renz, Jessup, Lacy, and Jane express their eagerness to join the conversation. I also bring up the matter of Ceraline, who remains locked in her cell, and we must determine her fate.

Lacy is the first to voice her opinion, “Let her rot and die a miserable death in that cell,” she declares with a fierce intensity.

Janice chimes in next, “You should drag her into the center of the pack and give her twenty lashes before banishing her.”

Janice can be downright ruthless at times.

Renz and Jessup argue that banishment would be the most appropriate course of action.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify