Emma's Mate (ON HOLD)

Chapter 22, Part 1

Author's note: This chapter ended up being longer than anticipated, so I decided to split it into two parts. I wanted to maintain the flow of the chapter, which is why I kept it lengthy. Thank you for your understanding.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Emma Smith

I slowly opened my eyes, feeling the warmth of the morning sun gently caressing my face. As I shifted in bed, I realized I was wrapped in the comforting embrace of Ashton. His arm was draped over my waist, and his breath was soft and steady against my skin. A smile instantly spread across my face, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of surreal happiness.

I took a moment to admire Ashton's peaceful sleeping face. His tousled brown hair fell gracefully over his forehead, and his long lashes delicately brushed against his cheeks. His lips, slightly parted, revealed a serene expression that made my heart skip a beat. I couldn't help but be captivated by his beauty, even in the simplicity of sleep.

With a gentle touch, I traced the contours of his face, my fingertips gliding over his smooth skin. I marveled at the way his features seemed to be perfectly crafted, as if he were a work of art. The love I felt for him swelled within me, overwhelming my senses.

Leaning in closer, I pressed a tender kiss on his forehead, savoring the sweetness of the moment. Ashton stirred slightly, his eyes fluttering open to meet mine. A sleepy smile tugged at the corners of his lips, and I couldn't help but feel my heart melt at the sight.

"Good morning, baby," he whispered, his voice filled with warmth and affection. I couldn't help but blush at his words, feeling a surge of love wash over me.

"Good morning," I replied softly, my voice filled with adoration. I nestled closer to him, cherishing the feeling of his arms around me, protecting me from the world.

Ashton's hazel-brown eyes sparkled with happiness as he gazed into mine. He pulled me closer, and we cuddled together for a few more minutes, enjoying the quiet intimacy of the moment.

As I lie in his arms, I feel a sense of surrealness. It's hard to believe that this is my life now. A few years ago, when I found out he was my mate, I never would have imagined that I would be here, waking up next to him in his arms. But here I am, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

As he dozes off again, I get up to freshen up and make breakfast.

Living alone for so many years, I had gotten used to not making breakfast for myself. I would either go to a cafe or just have some cereal at home. But ever since my father and Ashton moved in with me in this apartment, though temporarily, I made a conscious effort to have breakfast at home. I had missed the taste of homemade food all these years.

The first time Ashton cooked for me after I came back from the hospital, it was like a dream. The flavors and love put into the meal made me realize how much I had missed homemade food. Knowing Ashton's love for eating out, I would sometimes send him to pick up food from outside without letting him know it was for him, just so he could enjoy it too. But deep down, we both cherished the taste of homemade meals.

During our sleepovers in our teenage years, Ashton, Abigail, and I would spend hours cooking and eating together. The laughter and joy shared over those meals created memories that would last a lifetime. Our love for food and each other only grew stronger with each meal shared.

I was standing in the kitchen, flipping pancakes on the stove, when I felt a pair of strong arms wrap around me from behind. Startled, I turned my head to see Ashton grinning mischievously.