Big Bear Trouble: BBW Werebear Shapeshifter Romance (Sweetwater Brides) (7 page)

K
aren ran into Everett
, munching on a roast beef sandwich in the kitchen. There was no sign of Jennifer – she was probably already putting the twins down for their nap.

“Hey, sis, wanna bite?” Everett spluttered through mouthfuls. Karen couldn’t help but laugh.

Bears and their food.

“I’m good, thanks.”

Everett had started calling her sis almost right away. At first, she was taken aback at the instant familiarity – who was she to them? – but Jennifer had explained that she had gotten the same treatment. These brothers were all about family, and if you made one of their own happy, you were in.

Stabbing a wolf gnawing on their brother’s leg didn’t hurt, either.

Evan padded into the room, looking serious.

“Ethan found one of the wolves. He should be here any minute,” he gruffed.

As if on cue, Ethan walked in through the front door. They all sat down around the kitchen table.

“I tracked one of the wolves down to a bar a town over. Guessing it was the brown one that got a bite of your arm,” Ethan remarked, throwing a glance at Evan, a low growl escaping Everett. “His name is Calvin. We had a nice little chat and he told me some pretty interesting things,” Ethan continued, menace in his voice.

“There was someone else involved that night. Calvin said Jamie had a new friend he’d met around town. He’d heard him asking about you, Evan.”

A shadow flitted across Evan’s face.

“Jamie didn’t tell him much, but Calvin said the man was waiting outside while they went in. He gathered Jamie had some kind of deal going with him. The mystery man must’ve high-tailed when he saw his new buddy getting dragged out, unconscious,” Ethan speculated disdainfully.

Evan’s grip on the chair’s armrest tightened.

“Maisy told me some guy was asking around for Karen. She mentioned me when she talked to him. That had to have been Kyle. He must’ve hit up other spots trying to get information after unsuccessfully ambushing Karen. Jamie probably overheard him somewhere and it piqued his interest,” Evan gritted through his teeth.

“Jamie probably empathized with Kyle. In his mind, you stole Karen from Kyle just as you had done with him and Rita,” Ethan added.

A chilling realization came to Karen.

“So… Kyle was waiting outside for Jamie and his gang to finish Evan off and hand me over to him,” she stuttered, nausea growing in the pit of her stomach.

“But it didn’t go his way,” Evan reassured her, wrapping his arm around her. “You’re safe here, I won’t ever let him touch you again,” he added, firm in his conviction.

“You are part of this family now. He’d have to go through all of us to get to you,” Ethan confirmed.

“Damn right,” Karen heard Everett grunt to himself.

She smiled, moved by the show of support, “Thank you, it really means a lot to me.”

A
nother day had wound
itself into evening. Karen was waiting for Evan in the guest bedroom. He had decided to go into town and hit the gym in preparation for the fight.

Karen took a shower and slipped into her favorite silk robe. She had gotten it from a street vendor in Chinatown for a steal. It was incredibly smooth and soft, painted with cherry blossoms. She stretched out on the bed, enjoying the cool cotton of the pillow on her face.

The door creaked open and closed. Evan crawled into bed next to her, smelling of citrus and mint. Karen turned over to lie on her back.

“Hello, stranger,” she smiled.

“Have I told you how gorgeous you are?”

“Not lately, no. Please continue,” Karen answered cheekily.

“Whenever I see you walking around the house,” Evan started, running his hands over her thighs. “I can’t help the thoughts that come into my head.”

Karen’s breath hitched as Evan grazed over her panties.

“And what thoughts may those be?” she asked.

Evan made it to the silk ribbon that served as the robe’s belt, slowly tugging at it.

“Oh, you know. How I want to back you up into a wall and kiss you until you beg me to fuck you right then and there,” he breathed, pulling the ribbon loose.

The robe fell away, exposing Karen’s stomach and chest to the cool air. Evan was devouring her body with his gaze. A small gasp escaped her lips.

“Those are some… very interesting thoughts,” she said, her voice growing hoarse from desire.

Evan yanked the belt out from under her and started dragging it over her bare flesh. Goose bumps erupted over Karen’s skin. She tried pulling his face closer to hers, hungry for his lips.

“Oh no,” Evan smirked devilishly. “I want to taste you first,” he said, pushing her onto the bed.

He tied the silk ribbon over her eyes, softly blowing on her nipples at the same time. Losing her sight heightened Karen’s other senses, making her squirm.

“I love watching your body move,” Evan whispered, his breath on her neck.

The anticipation made Karen tremble. Where would he touch her next? She craved his skin on hers.

Evan slid his body down over hers, stopping with his head by her knees. He started kissing his way up her inner thighs, his large hands roaming over her legs. Karen arched her back, feeling herself getting wet.

Evan nuzzled her through her panties, the layer of fabric rubbing against her clit. He slowly moved her underwear to the side, kissing around the most sensitive part.

“Oh, yes!” Karen couldn’t help but whimper.

Evan started with deliberate, long licks, gradually building up pressure. Karen pushed herself up to meet his tongue, small moans escaping her throat. Suddenly, Evan stopped.

“Not yet,” he said before kissing his way up her stomach, stopping to nibble at her hard nipples.

Karen grabbed his head, burying her fingers in his hair. Her body was burning up, top to bottom. Evan pulled away.

Karen could hear something, like a bottle being opened. Cold oil started to drip onto her bare flesh, making her shiver with each landing drop.

His hands moved over her shoulders, slippery with the oil. He slid down her sides, caressing her ribcage, the slight tickling sensation creating a new level of sensation. He shifted to cupping her breasts with slow circular movements.

Then, he slid his slick fingers over her stomach, reaching her thighs once more. He started kneading right above her knees, gradually working his way up, until he reached the top of her inner thighs.

He went to work there, his fingers “accidentally” grazing her wetness from time to time. Karen bit her lip, trying not to go mad. Finally, Evan rolled his body on top of hers. She could feel his hard, chiseled frame against hers through his clothes.

His bulge was between her legs, applying just the right amount of pressure. Karen started to writhe against him, making Evan both groan and laugh.

“So impatient,” he said before covering her mouth with his.

Karen wrapped her hands around his neck, never wanting to let go. She reveled in the way his weight pressed her into the mattress, how his muscles moved on top of her when he adjusted himself. Evan broke the kiss, dragging himself away from her. He flipped her to her stomach, yanking away the robe.

“I think you need to cool down a little,” Evan teased, starting to rub her back.

His fingers softly massaged around her collarbones, his thumbs running circles on her lower neck. Karen relaxed into his touch. Evan moved lower, cupping her butt, his thumbs inching closer to her wetness. The throbbing between her legs was unrelenting.

“Please,” she moaned.

Evan’s hands stopped for a moment. She heard a soft rustle of fabric – Evan was removing his clothes.

“Please, what?” he teased.

“I need you to fuck me,” Karen breathed, lust enveloping every part of her brain.

“I knew I could get you to beg,” Evan said, his voice low and sensual.

He turned Karen over onto her back again, edging her legs apart with his knee. Grabbing her wrists in his hand, he pushed them up over her head. He was totally in control and Karen loved it. Evan slid a hand under her lower back, lifting her up.

He began to slowly enter her, stretching and filling her until all logic left her mind. Only the moment remained, erasing both past and future.

He moved slowly, making her body ache for more. After a while, he sped up, growing and building the electricity inside her until she couldn’t wait for it to be released. Right when she was about to tumble over the edge, he pulled back, slowing down. He continued with the tantalizing torment until Karen feared her screams would wake the whole damn house.

She wrapped her legs around him, spurring him on. Evan moaned, his head falling to rest on her shoulder. He started pumping faster and faster. Karen’s body thrashed against his, barreling towards climax.

The world fell away as they both reached their peak, skin slick with sweat and their moans and growls long grown incoherent. Evan fell on top of her, shuddering under the intensity. Karen’s body felt like putty, waves from her powerful orgasm still rolling over her.

“I can safely say our bodies seem to totally agree on the “meant to be” front,” Karen finally said, still slightly out of breath.

“I’ve never felt so whole,” she continued, tracing the outlines of Evan’s arm with her finger.

Evan rolled to his side and gathered her into his embrace.

“Couldn’t have said it better myself,” he agreed, nuzzling her hair.

Karen woke up at sunrise, still tucked into Evan’s shoulder. Light was peeking through the curtains and shining straight into her eyes. Evan was still fast asleep. She gently disentangled herself and got dressed as quietly as she could, sneaking downstairs into the kitchen with a plan to surprise Evan with breakfast in bed.

She was startled to see Ethan there, already fully dressed and having a cup of coffee.

“You’re up early,” she remarked before stepping into the pantry.

It was filled with pre-prepared snacks, platters full of cold cuts, hardboiled eggs, vegetables and hummus, selections of fruit, pastries…

Guess a bear clan has to be well stocked,
she mused.

She piled up everything on a plate, well aware of the appetite the man she had left in bed had.

“An Alpha’s job is never done,” Ethan responded, lifting his mug. “I wouldn’t mind some company,” he added, gesturing to the chair opposite him.

Of all the people in the clan, Karen had probably spent the least amount of time with Ethan. She had tried to get a moment to thank him for his hospitality, but he always seemed to be busy or away somewhere.

Karen sat down.

“I’ve been meaning to tell you how grateful I am that you’re letting me stay here,” she started.

“There is no need to thank me. You’re family,” he interjected.

Karen smiled, warmed by the declaration.

“You didn’t always used to live here?” she finally asked.

“Yeah, the clan is mostly spread out between cottages outside of town. We prefer the solitude of the wilderness. I still keep up with my cabin, but there’s more room here for the kids to play around,” he explained.

“But Evan has his own place in town.”

Ethan sighed.

“After our father died, Evan started putting distance between himself and the clan, both mentally and physically. He used to be a lot more involved. I think maybe me taking over as Alpha was the problem. Made him feel like I was replacing dad.”

“Could be. But I’ve heard him talk about you, all of you, and it’s always with such pride and love. His place is full of family pictures. And I can tell he has really enjoyed being here with the rest of you,” Karen confided, moved by how Ethan had opened up to her.

“Nothing would make me happier than having things back to the way they were.”

Ethan smiled.

To no one’s surprise, Everett entered the kitchen, groggy and rubbing his eyes.
He was still crashing on the couch, just to be safe.

Pretty sure it has more to do with Jennifer’s cooking than our well-being
, Karen snickered to herself.

She got up from the table, taking her plate with her.

“Well, I gotta go and take this to Evan,” she said.

Everett plunked down on one of the chairs.

“Yeah, he must have worked up a real appetite last night,” he chuckled, winking at Karen.

Karen could feel her face turn redder than a tomato, as she turned around on her heel and rushed out of the kitchen. She could hear Ethan coughing, trying to cover up a laugh.

Goddamn bears with their excellent hearing.

E
van woke
up to the sound of the door opening. He tried reaching out to Karen, but her side of the bed was empty. He sat up to see her smiling in the doorway with a plate stacked high with food. The sunlight streaming in from the windows set her hair ablaze.

What a lucky man I am
, he thought.

“Breakfast is served,” she chirped, walking over and setting the plate on the bedside table.

“It sure is,” Evan yawned, grabbing her arm and pulling her back into bed.

Karen let out a little squeal, immediately clamping a hand over her mouth.

“We better keep it down,” she said, turning slightly pink in the cheeks. “I ran into Everett in the kitchen… I think we might have disturbed his sleep.”

“I don’t care. I like hearing you scream my name,” Ethan chuckled, reveling in the memories from last night.

“I screamed your name?” Karen gasped, the blush on her cheeks deepening.

Evan found it completely endearing.

“You did. I consider it one of my greatest achievements,” he remarked, earning a dramatic groan and exaggerated eye roll from Karen.

“I thought we could go back into town today, look over the damage to my apartment. See if I need to replace anything. If you’re up to it, of course,” Evan added, realizing Karen might not want to go back to the place where she almost watched him bleed out.

She swallowed and, after a moment, spoke, “If that’s what you want.”

“It’s not only about what I want,” Evan explained, his brow furrowing.

“It’s just… never mind, it’s really none of my business,” Karen muttered, avoiding his gaze.

“I know you feel like we haven’t known each other long enough to get all into each other’s private matters, but I think you’re wrong. We’ve been through a lot this past week. They say you really get to know people when the chips are down and I believe that.”

“Men came to my house and tried to kill me and you kept your cool. You basically saved my life. Anything you want to say, say it. Always,” he confirmed.

Everything he said was true. Karen had revealed her nature to him in many ways. A proud woman, unashamed of her past. A kind woman, giving second chances even to those who did not deserve them. A loyal and brave woman, unafraid to fight for those she cares about.

And a warm woman, winning over people with ease.

Karen looked up at him.

“Am I such an open book or are you just really perceptive?” she asked, pursing her lips.

Evan laughed.

“I’d still you rather just tell me what’s on your mind,” he chuckled.

Karen sat up on her knees.

“Why did you move to town? I know you used to live in a cabin like the rest of the clan,” she begged, searching his face for a reaction.

Evan couldn’t conceal a hint of bitterness creeping into his expression.

“You’ve been speaking with Ethan,” he stated.

“Please don’t be mad at him. I just saw how happy you were here, spending time with your family,” Karen pleaded.

“You think I’m happier here than I was in town?” Evan asked, surprised.

Karen squinted at him.

“Guess you’re more perceptive when it comes to others than when it comes to you… How can you not see what I see? You love being around your family, being involved in clan matters. So why did you decide to take a step back?”

Evan reached inside himself for the answer.

“Ethan. He became Alpha after dad died and I felt like he tried to take his place. He didn’t feel like my brother anymore, like suddenly he was this wise man who always knew better. In hindsight, he was just trying to adjust to his new place in the clan, but at the time, it drove me away,” he explained after some contemplation.

“He just wants to be your brother again, Evan. I think you should talk to him,” Karen implored.

When he really thought about it, Evan couldn’t deny that he missed his little cottage. Even in the tiny town of Sweetwater, he still felt crowded sometimes. Plus, he would be closer to the rest of the clan…

“I wouldn’t even know what to say,” he sighed.

“You don’t have to do anything right now, just think about it,” Karen assured him, tousling his hair.

“Well, I’ll still have to go into town eventually, I have that match tomorrow,” Evan commented.

“Can I come? To see the fight, I mean,” Karen asked, trying to seem enthusiastic though the truth was that she still wasn’t completely thrilled about Evan getting back in the ring so quickly after being injured.

“I would love if you came, but you don’t have to.”

“This is something you love to do, a piece of who you are. Of course I’m going to be there to support you,” Karen chirped, rallying.

“It’s settled, then,” Evan smiled, grabbing her into his arms. “Now let’s eat,” he added, growling and nuzzling into Karen’s throat. Her laugh echoed through the room.

After eating and getting dressed, Evan and Karen decided to stop by Sweetwater for supplies and also to see Joe. They were driving down overgrown roads, the windows of Evan’s truck rolled down, the cab filling with the scent of warm earth.

“I think we should stop by the sheriff’s office,” Karen burst out suddenly. “To see if they have any updates on Kyle,” she continued.

“They promised to call if there are any developments,” Evan reminded her.

Karen sighed.

“I just don’t like feeling like he’s still lurking around somewhere out there.”

“His plan failed. He saw Jamie go into my apartment followed by some giant of a man and two wolves. Then Jamie and a wolf were dragged out, unconscious. If that didn’t show him that he shouldn’t mess with us, I don’t know what will.”

“If he’s smart, he’s also figured out that the cops want to have a chat with him. He has probably already skipped town, and even if he hasn’t, I plan on not letting you out of my sight.”

Karen had showed him a picture of Kyle so he would know who to look out for. That face had been in the back of his mind ever since. Thinking about that little twerp’s hands around Karen’s throat made his fists itch.

Half of him wanted Kyle to show up, so he could give him a piece of his… mind. He suppressed those feelings. Karen had been through enough. It would be better if they never saw Kyle again.

For both Karen and for Kyle.

“You’re right,” Karen sighed, relaxing into the seat. “He may be a grade-A asshole, but I don’t think he’d be stupid enough to pick a fight with you around.”

They arrived at Bluejay’s around noon. When they got out of the truck, Joe greeted them with a warm hug.

“I’m so glad you’re both okay,” he said, relieved. “Everett told me what happened.”

“Thought we’d show you in person that we’re fine. I know how you like to worry,” Evan chuckled, patting the man on the shoulder.

“I sure am glad
you’re
back,” Joe turned to Karen. “You got done in a couple of hours what would have taken me days, and even then I’d probably mess something up.”

“I’d love to help even more,” Karen said.

“But we’re actually on a supply run and will be heading back soon,” Evan added.

He remembered all too well what had happened the last time he had taken off and left Karen at Joe’s.

“Okay, whenever’s a good time for you then,” Joe smiled.

Evan and Karen made their way to the market.

“You can’t be my bodyguard forever, you know.”

“Sure I can,” Evan chuckled, taking her hand into his. Karen just smiled and shook her head.

T
he next afternoon
, Evan and Karen made their way back into town to get ready for Evan’s fight. They stopped by his place first. The door to Evan’s apartment had been replaced, not a scratch anywhere. As they stepped inside, Karen gasped.

There wasn’t a stitch out of place. The kitchen chairs were back in their places, instead of being piles of wood on the ground. The floors were shiny and blood-free. The countertops gleaming. Not a speck of dust or dirt anywhere.

“Ethan had some guys come over,” Evan explained.

“Can they do my apartment next?” Karen joked, walking around.

Evan felt a little stab, reminded that Karen had a place of her own waiting for her.

Wasn’t I supposed to be her home?

His phone buzzed. It was Tom, confirming the fight. There had been a last minute change.

Evan was now fighting Alex Maugham from the Clearpond wolf pack.