The Reluctant Alpha (West Coast Wolves #1) - Susi Hawke Page 0,15

for real. My true mate, like, fated and stuff." As I sucked in another breath, my eyes widened. "That's why you smell so good."

He studied me before a loud laugh rumbled from his throat. "Although I like the idea of being your ultimate fantasy, I'm sorry to admit I’m a real person. And yes, I'm your mate now. I'd prefer for you to think of me as your mate rather than your alpha. I’d never planned on taking a mate, but I always swore if I did, it would be an equal partnership."

Now I was the one laughing. "Are you sure I'm not dead, and this isn't heaven? Because I'm pretty sure no alpha worth his salt would ever say something so ridiculous. Especially to an omega."

He rolled his eyes. "Then those alphas need to find new salt." He hesitated, then lifted an arm. "Is it okay if we cuddle? My wolf needs physical contact, and I want to hold you again. I didn't dare while you slept because it was bad enough to claim you without consent. I wasn't going to force any further physical contact without your knowledge."

I practically flung myself into his arms, wrapping my arms around his neck as I snuggled in close. "Okay, so maybe you’re real, but now I'm starting to wonder if I should question your sanity. As for the lack of consent, consider it given, and backdate it to whatever point in time will absolve you of any guilt. You literally saved my life. But even if you hadn't, you’ve already treated me with more kindness than any alpha ever has."

As those impulsive words poured out of my mouth, my heart started to pound again. Calling him crazy was a good way to press the limits of said kindness.

Wrapping his arms around me, he held me tight. His gentle touch calmed me as quickly as his softly spoken words. "Easy now, little wolf. I don't know what has you quietly freaking out, but I promise you have nothing to fear with me. I know it'll take time for you to completely trust me, but for now I’d appreciate it if you'd take me at my word. And though I’ve claimed you, I want to wait for anything more physical than this until you feel completely safe. When you’re ready, you can initiate our intimacy."

What? Who was this alpha? He wasn’t going to hit me or force me into sex? And he meant every word, or my wolf would’ve scented the smoothest of lies. Gulping, I slowly leaned my head back to see into his eyes. "Okay. I'll try. I'm sorry I called you crazy, though. I shouldn't have been so disrespectful."

He scoffed, looking at me like I was the crazy one. "Why the hell not? I told you I want us to be equals, didn't I? True equality means you can feel free to say anything you want to me. Never mind if it's something you don't think I want to hear. I want to start our relationship off well, which means honesty, even when it's ugly."

I bit my lip as I considered his words. "Okay. Hmm. Then in the spirit of honesty, I have to say your idea sounded both totally weird and completely awesome. Also, can you tell me your name? It seems kinda slutty to be naked cuddling and bonded without knowing what to call you. It’s like a country song about waking up married after getting blackout drunk."

As if startled, he barked out a laugh. "Well, damn. Then I guess you’re feeling kinda awkward right about now, aren't you?" I must have been feeling braver than I thought because I giggled and shoved his chest. He merely laughed more. "I like you, little wolf. Allow me to introduce myself and give you my backstory. Let’s start with my name. I’m Matthias Longclaw, but you can call me Matt. My father was the alpha here in Lucerne Valley, and I was the original heir. I left at eighteen, and apparently my Uncle Horace challenged him not long after and took over the pack."

"Did you know your uncle?" I closed my eyes, wrinkling my nose as I gave my head a quick shake. "Never mind, don't answer. I know pack law well, thanks to my father. Mostly because he was always looking for loopholes, but there's another story. So Horace must've been the younger brother, huh? It's weird to think of someone so old and mean ever being someone's little