Page 235 of Knot What I Expected

Purpose.

I need names. Faces. Locations.

Later.

Right now, Gabby needs me.

“So, I panicked.”

She gives a broken little laugh that isn't laughter at all.

“I became angry. Really angry. And I—I shifted for the first time since I’d gotten pregnant.”

Her heart is racing. The matebond floods with fear.

I turn my attention entirely back to her.

“And that time, when I did...” Her amber eyes lift to mine. “I became something else.”

“Something else? What? How?”

“I don't know how to explain it.”

“Try.”

“Rowan—”

“Honey Girl.”

I cup her cheek.

“You could grow three heads and breathe purple fucking lightning, and I wouldn’t give a shit. You're mine. You’re safe right here in this chair with me. And whatever you’re about to say doesn’t change that.”

A wet laugh slips out of her.

Good.

“I mean it.”

“I know.”

“No, I don't think you do.”

I brush away the first tear that escapes.

“Whatever you shift into doesn't change shit between us.”

“You don't know that, Rowan.”

“Sure I fucking do. You are mine. My mate. My Omega.”

The matebond pulses.

She feels my certainty. I know she does because her eyes close for a second.

Then she whispers, “Ethan was frightened of me.”

That gets my attention.