Free Claiming His Witch by Ellis Leigh Page A

Scarlett shrugged, and then tossed me my phone. “You dropped this.”
    Bethesda turned my way when Scarlett spoke, her scowl transforming to a surprised look. “Oh, thank the Goddess. Get over here, Weaver. I won’t allow these animals to trick you into thinking you’re some kind of chew toy.”
    Pup raised an eyebrow at me. “Chew toy?”
    I shrugged. “Sure. Dogs like to chew on things.”
    “For the last time”—he leaned over me, a slight growl rumbling in his chest, his eyes so damn vibrant they almost glowed—“I’m not a dog. I’m a wolf.”
    I shivered, ignoring the calamity swirling around us as my coven and his friends stood in their tense showdown.
    “I know.” My voice came out breathy, much softer than normal. “You’re a wolf, I’m your mate, and wolves mate for life.”
    “Exactly.” He tangled his fingers with mine, pulling me close to him. “This is us; it’s simple and small right now. A fated connection between two people. But this is going to be huge. We just have to give it time. Have to give us time.”  
    I nodded, my fingertips positively tingling with how excited I was to spend more time with him. The talking and touching and kissing hadn’t been enough. I wanted to drag him back in his cabin and curl up with him in his tiny bed. Wanted to wrap myself in his arms and have him tell me every story he knew. The thread between us was wrapped tight, holding me to him. I didn’t want to stretch it any further than I absolutely had to. Screw my responsibilities. I had a soul mate who made me want to strip down and press my body against his.  
    Looming over me, leaning in for what I was sure was a kiss, Pup licked his bottom lip. My eyes tracked the motion, wanting to feel that wet heat on various parts of my body. But those delicious thoughts were interrupted by the shrill yell of Bethesda.
    “Weaver, get your ass over here right now.”
    I blinked, shaking off the lust and disappointment swamping me. Shrugging, I gave Pup a small smile. “My ass has been beckoned.”
    “It’s a phenomenal ass. It really should be invited more places. Like say, my cabin…later tonight.” He gave me what can only be described as a wolfish grin as I laughed.
    “Nice try, Romeo. But I think the only place my ass is going to be is my bed.”  
    “Can’t blame a guy for trying.”
    I laughed, shaking my head at his boyishness. Knowing I needed to say goodbye, I stepped into the warmth of his body. I wanted to hug him; I wanted to wrap my arms around his neck and squeeze him.  
    And I really didn’t want to leave.  
    But my covenmates were capable of all sorts of craziness if they thought they were in danger. I had to go so I could find a way to explain things to them. They needed to accept that these men, these wolf shifters, were not witch hunters. They were not a danger to us, especially not my Pup.  
    Before I could leave him, though, I needed to know he would be safe. I had an urge to offer him protection, from what, I had no idea, but there was no denying the instinct. Listening to the guidance being offered, I leaned into his hold, pursing my lips and blowing against his throat.
    “What are you doing?” he asked, quiet but unafraid.
    Once I’d finished, I gave him a small, sarcastic glare. “Just hush and trust me.”  
    I took a step back, but his hand caught my elbow and held me in place. His eyes burned into mine, strong and true as he whispered a single word that nearly brought me to my knees.
    “Always.”  
    I sighed and brushed my fingers over his lips. “Sweet boy.”
    He leaned over me, placing his forehead against mine. “Do your worst.”
    Smirking, I shook my head at his sass. But with witches and shifters arguing in the background, I knew my time was limited. There were many protection spells I could have cast, calling on any number of Goddesses and Gods to infuse me with their power. But my Pup was strong; he was able to defend himself if needed. I chose a