Imara Diversifies The Beastmen World

Chapter Sixty Six: What A Catch!

Gabriel's POV

Life has changed in ways I never expected since becoming a guardian to my mate. The happiness and understanding Imara brings into my life are beyond anything I could have imagined. It's exciting and a little overwhelming at the same time.

I used to be a male who stuck to his principles, but now I'd do anything for her—my pretty babe.

Every day feels like a new adventure. When I became her guardian, I was searching for a purpose, but I didn't realize how fast Imara would become that purpose.

Being greeted by her love and affection is a gift I cherish. There's no pressure, no expectations—just the chance to enjoy her warmth and care. She makes it easy to be selfish and vulnerable, to share my fears without judgment. Her love is more valuable to me than any emerald.

The more I learn about her, the more I want to protect her. I want to make sure she has everything she needs, to give her a life where she never feels like anything is missing.

Patience and understanding have always been natural for me, but with Imara, they've grown deeper.

I'm not perfect, though. Males have their moments of weakness too. I'll admit, it hurt a little when I thought she was holding back or doubting me. Seeing her hesitate—especially when she looked at Harvey—stung more than I expected.

But when she explained herself, everything made sense. She was honest with me, and it eased all my worries.

She reminded me that my feelings were valid and reassured me that I was her choice. I know nobody is truly worthy of her, but she chose me—and that feels like a blessing from the Beast God himself.

As I watched her drift off to sleep, peaceful and safe, Harvey appeared in his leopard form. His deep voice broke the quiet.

"Welcome to the family, Gabriel," he said. "Both Imara and I trust you. She's told you a lot about her. Don't disappoint us."

"Thank you for welcoming me into the family," I said, meaning every word.

Deep down, I understood something important—while it's ultimately Imara's decision, Harvey's opinion carries weight. He's like the first gatekeeper, and his approval matters more than most would realize.

Imara may know that many males are drawn to her, but she has no idea just how many have tried to approach her. Harvey and I have chased them off time and again, often teaming up to deal with challengers. Harvey wouldn't miss a chance to defend her, and I've come to admire that about him.

It's not that males can't approach her—it's that they're simply not worthy. Many no-stripe, one-stripe males, and even inexperienced cubs have tried, likely thinking Imara would overlook their shortcomings because she isn't superficial. And maybe because they see Harvey, a no-stripe himself, at her side, they think they stand a chance.

But Harvey is no ordinary no-stripe. He's far more dangerous than he looks—not just in strength, but in the way his mind works. He's like the Ape King in that way. Strategic, sharp, and always one step ahead, Harvey knows how to use his intellect to manipulate situations to Imara's benefit.

His knowledge of bodies, combined with his medical skills, makes him even more stronger. During our last fight with a suitor, I watched him dislocate and reset a two-stripe male's arm with practiced ease.

As for the persistent suitor, Harvey's influence seems to extend beyond the battleground. The male left looking noticeably lighter, his steps uneasy and his face pale. I couldn't help but wonder what Harvey had slipped him. Whatever it was, it sent him running to squat like a sick beast and no one could figure out when or how Harvey even managed to pull it off. It even made me uncomfortable—and I've seen things that usually don't faze me. But the suitor? He couldn't stay out of the sandbox.