Chapter 5
Salem
I leave without her for the last time.
I tried to get her to come with me of her own free will.
I even held her hand gently, like I’ve seen Bane do with Saylor and Shadow do with Laurel. I’ve watched how they treat their mates, so I know what Peach will need from me. But she still isn’t ready to dive in deep with me. Does she not think I’ll make a good mate? I can provide for her and give her everything she needs.
Anything.
I know she has strong magic, but I don’t care what it is. Even if she didn’t have any magic, I have enough for both of us.
All I need is her.
I’m fucking obsessed.
When I get home, I set up the wards around my house. No one is going to get in here without my permission. Or out, including my brothers. I need some forced proximity until she falls in love with me. Until she doesn’t want to leave.
I’m whistling to myself as I finish getting everything ready. I’ve never lived with a woman before, aside from Saylor when we were younger, and I know they can be a little difficult at times.
Emotional.
Moody.
At least my sister was.
But I’m ready for all of that.
Peach can throw whatever she wants at me.
I’m not going anywhere.
The next day, I show up at the bakery before closing.
“Salem,” she says, eyes widening in surprise. “What are you doing here?”
“Just came to check on my mate.” I shrug, and she grins, picking up a box next to the register and handing it to me. “I was going to take this home in case you dropped by tonight.”
She’s been thinking about me?
“What is it?” I ask, my voice hoarse.
“Have a look.”
I take the box from her, sparks shooting up my hand when our fingers touch. When I open the lid, I see the four strawberry cheesecakes, and my mouth waters. “My favorite.”
“I noticed.” She smirks.
I decide to give her one last chance. “Will you come to my house tonight? I’ll make you dinner.”
She frowns, then shakes her head. Sadness flickers in her emerald eyes. “I’m sorry, Salem. I can’t. It will be too hard to?—”
“To what?”
She sighs, her shoulders hunching. “To stay away from you.”
“Exactly the point,” I murmur, narrowing my eyes. “We’re mates, Peach. I want to bond with you.”
