Chapter 400 Morning Promises

Joseph’s POV

I woke up alone among the cushions, momentarily believing everything had been just a dream. Had I really found my fated mate? Had Ava truly forgiven me and told me she loved only me? I’d never mock the Moon Goddess or doubt fated mates again. Hell, I’d join my mother in prayer sessions if that’s what it took to keep this blessing.

I headed upstairs to the bedroom and spotted Ava’s clothes scattered across the bed. The sound of running water drew me to the bathroom where I found her showering, water cascading down her curves. The sight of her wet skin glistening in the morning light was irresistible. I couldn’t stop myself from stepping in behind her, wrapping my arms around her waist.

“Mmm, someone’s awake,” Ava said with a laugh, feeling my arousal press against her perfect backside. “And very excited, I see.”

“I’m always excited around you,” I murmured, gently nipping at her earlobe. “You left me alone down there. I almost thought I’d dreamed you up.”

Ava turned to face me, her smile radiant as water droplets clung to her eyelashes. She pulled me down for a kiss that sent heat rushing through my body.

I couldn’t help but hold her close, right there under the shower spray. The water made her skin slick and shimmery as I kissed every inch I could reach. I craved being inside her, against her, worshipping every part of the woman who had completely transformed my life.

“Dean is purring like a damn cat,” I whispered against her neck. “He’s never been this content.”

“Leila feels the same way,” Ava replied, her eyes flashing gold momentarily. “She’s practically floating.”

After our shower, we sat down for breakfast, unable to keep our hands off each other. Having her beside me felt incredible—feeling her warmth, tasting her kisses, experiencing her gentle touches.

“You’re so beautiful, so incredible,” I said, stroking her cheek. “I can’t believe I’m lucky enough to have your love.”

“I’m lucky you love me too,” she replied with a playful tone. “Which is surprising considering your former playboy lifestyle with so many women.”

I tensed immediately. The topic of “other women” was dangerous territory.

Ava must have sensed my discomfort. She quickly changed the subject with a smile. “What do you think about going to the beach this weekend? Our friends will be calling soon, and if they don’t flood the house first. I bet Nina has already spread the news everywhere.”

“Then, sweetheart,” I whispered against her lips, “shouldn’t we get out of here before everyone shows up?”

“Absolutely! But I need to stop by my apartment to grab some clothes and things.”

“Hmm…” I hummed, kissing a trail down her neck.

“If you keep that up, we won’t be going anywhere,” she laughed, embracing me. “But I haven’t had a chance to look through all the photos and notes yet.” She glanced up at the balloons still floating on the ceiling.

“Don’t worry about that. I’ll have someone take care of everything. They’ll save all the items for you.” I pulled her toward the stairs.

We packed our bags and personal items, changed clothes, and prepared to leave. Ava clutched the chocolate basket tightly, having collected all the chocolates from around the room.

“They’re coming with us,” she said, eyes sparkling.

“All of them? That’s an excessive amount of chocolate!” I found her childlike enthusiasm adorable.

“Why, won’t they fit in your little boat?” She pouted, looking utterly irresistible.

“My boat can fit anything you want,” I teased.

“Good, because if I had to choose, I’d pick the chocolates.” I laughed until I saw her serious expression, suddenly worried she might actually choose chocolate over me.

We loaded everything into the car, including kitchen supplies and several bottles of wine. I called the dock to prepare the yacht.

Just as we were about to leave, movement at my neighbor’s house caught my attention.

I stopped the car, watching my mother exit Dr. Molina’s home while her driver waited outside. The doctor pulled her into an embrace, his fingers gently stroking her hair in a gesture too intimate for my comfort.

“That’s my mother!” I exclaimed, both surprised and irritated.

“Oh, you’re right!” Ava looked curiously at the scene. “Hedi and the doctor. She’s chosen well this time!”

“What did you just say, Ava?” I asked, annoyed and confused.

“Don’t be childish, Joseph. They’re clearly together,” Ava said with an amused smile.

“She’s my mother, Ava!” I warned.

“Of course, but she’s also a woman—a beautiful one. Do you think mothers are supposed to be immaculate virgins?” Ava’s eyes challenged me, but her smile grew wider as she turned back to the window. “See? I told you so!”

Dr. Molina was kissing my mother, and not in a chaste way. I wanted to murder the presumptuous doctor.

“I’m going over there,” I said, hand already on the car door, but Ava grabbed my arm.

“You’re going nowhere!” she scolded. “If you get out of this car, I’m going home, and you won’t see me for months.”

“You wouldn’t do that,” I countered.

“Oh, I absolutely would! I have plenty of chocolate, and I refuse to let you play the jealous son who ruins his mother’s life. You’re too old for that role.” Ava was dead serious.

“Fine, I won’t go,” I grumbled.

“Come on, let’s get to the beach. If you behave, I might strip for you on your little boat.” The mischievous glint in her eyes momentarily distracted me from my mother’s situation.

“Dean, why is my mother kissing that man?” I mentally asked my wolf.

“Because she deserves happiness too,” Dean replied simply. “And you need to grow up.”

I sighed and put the car in drive. Ava was right—I had more important things to focus on now. Like making sure my mate stayed happy… and keeping those damn chocolates from stealing my place in her heart.