Page 71 of Finding His Fox

“Don’t worry, little buddy. I didn’t forget about you,” I said, placing a small plate of Max’s favorite kibble in front of him.

“Thoughtful fox,” Nate murmured. “At this rate, Max might end up liking you more than me.”

“Do I detect a hint of jealousy in your voice?” I teased.

“Not at all,” Nate replied, picking up a butter cookie.

A gentle breeze brushed against our faces. Nate gazed out at the lake, his expression soft and contemplative.

“It truly is beautiful out here,” Nate murmured. “I can imagine waking up to this view every morning.”

My heart throbbed with anticipation. This was the moment Owen had described—the moment to make our move on our mate.

My inner fox agreed. It was time to open up to Nate.

Setting down my cup, I reached for Nate’s hand, catching his inquisitive gaze.

My emotions swirled inside me, but I took a deep breath to steady myself. Then, summoning my courage, I spoke.

“I feel the same way,” I said, my voice quivering slightly.

Damn it, Owen probably had an easier time with this. But then again, he was Owen, and I was just... me.

I thought about all the adventures Nate and I had shared since his arrival in Fox Haven.

Though our time together had been brief, Nate had quickly become my safe haven, my rock.

Nate’s eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat. Then, he was smiling from ear to ear.

In that moment, I knew my fear of rejection was unfounded. Nate felt the same way about me.

“Cal, what are you saying?” Nate pressed, his voice filled with anticipation.

“Nate, when I saw you again at Owen and Ian’s engagement party, I had a sneaking suspicion that my life would never be the same,” I began, locking gazes with my mate. “And I was right. You were a hurricane, sweeping everything in your path.”

“A hurricane?” Nate raised an eyebrow, his nervousness replaced with amusement. “Are you suggesting I’m a terrifying force of nature?”

Well, that had been my initial thought.

“I’m not great with words,” I growled playfully.

“Alright, you’re forgiven. Please continue, Mr. Yates,” Nate said, a sparkle in his eyes.

I cleared my throat, gathering my thoughts. “The point is, I love you, Nathaniel Chambers. Will you move in with me?”

Nate’s eyes filled with warmth and joy. “I love you too, Cal, and yes,” he immediately responded. “I would love to move in with you.”

Chapter 21

Nate

One Year Later

Cal and I strolled through the fairgrounds hand in hand. It was another one of Fox Haven’s many fairs.

This time it was some summer-themed one. It didn’t matter because only one thing was on my mind today.

I needed to tell Cal I was finally ready. Ready to have kids.