The Alpha's mate

Unwavering Protection

Matthew POV

The rogue threat lingered like a dark shadow over the Blood Moon pack. Raphael had doubled patrols, fortified borders, and even had Celeste cast protective wards, but it wasn’t enough to soothe the possessive storm raging inside him. From the moment the rogue leader carved a bloody declaration, his focus had been singular, Me.

I appreciated Raphael’s dedication, but his protectiveness was beginning to feel suffocating. Wherever I went, his sharp gaze followed. He was always there, whether I were talking with my friends, eating, or simply walking outside.

“I can’t even breathe without you hovering,” I said one afternoon as Raphael pulled me away from the training field, where warriors were preparing for potential attacks.

“I’m not hovering. I’m protecting you, lov” Raphael growled, his deep voice laced with authority.

“I’m not a child, Ray,” I shot back, frustration edging my tone. “I’ve trained for years. I can take care of myself.”

“Not against rogues that want to claim you,” he snapped, his eyes darkening with intensity. “I won’t risk losing you.”

I stopped walking, turning to face him fully. “I’m not going anywhere. You don’t have to be this overbearing.”

Raphael stepped closer, towering over me. His jaw was tight, and his hands were clenched into fists at his sides. “You don’t understand what it’s like,” he said, his voice softening slightly. “The thought of anything happening to you…” He shook his head, his dark eyes filled with raw emotion. “It’s unbearable.”

The vulnerability in his voice broke through my irritation. Raphael wasn’t just being possessive—he was scared. I reached out, placing a hand on his chest.

“I’m not going anywhere,” I said softly, meeting his gaze. “But you have to trust me, Ray. We’re a team.”

His jaw relaxed, and he placed a large hand over mine. “I do trust you,” he murmured, “but it’s my job to keep you safe. And I’ll die before I let anyone take you from me.”

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As the sun dipped below the horizon, Raphael finally relented to my pleas for a moment of normalcy. He led me to a quiet spot near the packhouse, away from the chaos of the day. The air was cool, the scent of pine and earth mingling with Raphael’s woodsy aroma.

I sat together on a small bench, the silence between us was comforting. Raphael’s arm was draped protectively around my shoulders, pulling me close to his side.

“It’s beautiful here,” I said, looking up at the stars.

“It is,” Raphael agreed, though his gaze was fixed on me.

I turned to find him watching my, his dark eyes filled with an emotion so intense it made my breath hitch. “What?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

“Nothing,” he said softly, a small smile tugging at his lips. “I just… I can’t believe you’re mine.”

My cheeks warmed, and I looked away, feeling the bond between us with warmth. “I’m lucky to have you too,” I admitted.

He leaned down, his lips brushing against my temple. “You’re everything to me,” he whispered.

The moment was tender, but the bond between us thrummed with something more. Raphael’s hand moved to cup my cheek, turning my face toward him. His gaze was molten, filled with a longing that made my heart race.

“Raphael…” I started, but my words were cut off as his lips captured mine in a kiss that was both gentle and demanding.

The kiss deepened, and Raphael pulled me onto his lap, his strong arms wrapping around me like a shield. His hands round me like a shield. His hands roamed my back, his touch sending shivers down my spine.

"I need you, " He murmured against my lips, his voice a low growl.

I nodded, unable to find my voice as his kisses trailed down my neck. The intensity of his emotions—his love, his fear, his possessiveness–washed over me. Leaving me breathless.

"Say your mine" He demanded softly, his lips brushing against my ears.

"I'm yours, " I whispered, my voice trembling with emotions.

Raphael claimed my lips again. His movements both demanding and tender. He laid me down gently, his body hovering over mine, as he poured all his emotions into every touch, every kiss.

The connection between us deepend, the bond pulsing with an almost tangible force. In that moment, I felt completely and utterly his

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As the night worn on, I lay carled on Raphael's chest, his arms wrapped around me protectively. His fingers traced lazy patterns on my back. The tension that had plagued him earlier easing.

"I'm never letting anyone hurt you, "He said softly, his voice resolute.

" I know, " I replied, pressing a kiss on his cheek

In that quiet moment, surrounded by his warmth and scent, I felt safe. Whatever challenges lay ahead I know we can face it together.