Chasing His Scentless Mate

Chapter 402 The Request to Move In

Ava’s POV

Sunday evening, we returned from the island to Joseph’s home. We were both exhausted but couldn’t resist stealing intimate moments together. After showering, we settled into his massive bed, cuddling close.

"Ava," Joseph’s voice rumbled against my ear, "I need you to accept security protection again."

I turned slightly to face him, my hand resting on his chest. "My handsome Alpha, I’ve already accepted it. Caroline assigned skilled warriors to protect me. She even asked Alpha Draven to ensure Isaac stays behind bars."

Joseph released a deep sigh, relief evident in his expression. "Thank the Moon Goddess."

He nuzzled my ear with his nose, his breath warm against my skin. "But I need to tell you something—your unstable ex isn’t our only problem."

"But Howard’s already in prison," I reminded him, closing my eyes to better absorb the sensation of his touch against my skin.

"I’m talking about Steward," he clarified, causing me to instantly tense in his arms.

"Why?" I pulled back slightly to study his face.

"It’s a long and disturbing story." His jawline tightened. "I’d rather discuss it tomorrow when we’re not in our bed."

"Our bed?" I teased with a smile, trying to lighten the mood.

"Is that all you took from what I said?" He chuckled against my neck, his lips brushing my sensitive skin. "Yes, our bed. Speaking of which, when do you plan to finish decorating the house and move in?"

"Our house?" I turned to face him completely, a smile spreading across my face.

"Yes, our house." Joseph’s eyes held mine. "I want to build our life here, start our family here. Unless you’d rather be somewhere else?"

"No! I love this house!" I said, my voice full of excitement. "I’ll keep decorating tomorrow!"

Joseph pressed his face against my chest, his words soft. "When are you moving in?"

"Can we take our time?" I asked, my fingers moving through his hair. "I’ll set up the rooms first, and then we’ll see. We just found our way back to each other."

He didn’t stop. He kept kissing my neck, his lips warm against my skin.

"You’re only delaying what’s going to happen," he whispered between kisses on my neck, my chest, my jaw. "You came back to me. That’s it. I won’t lose you again."

"Can you give me some time?" I insisted.

"Mmm... I want you by my side every day," he grumbled against my skin.

"Will you give me a little time?" I attempted to negotiate again, acutely aware that I hadn’t told him about my abilities yet—he only knew I’d transformed from an Omega to an Alpha.

"We’ll discuss it tomorrow," Joseph conceded, pulling me closer. "Come here. I want to savor the last moments of our perfect weekend without bringing problems into our bed."

He cradled me against his chest, his gentle caresses eventually lulling me to sleep.

When I woke the next morning, Joseph was no longer in the room. After showering and gathering my things, including a box of organized photos and notes I’d left in his room, I headed downstairs to find him in the kitchen.

"Good morning." Joseph stood as I entered, greeting me with a sweet, coffee-flavored kiss. "I’d like you to meet Lyssa. She previously managed my apartment and prepared my meals. She’ll help you manage the house now. Lyssa knows all the staff and will introduce you to everyone when time permits."

"It’s a pleasure to meet you, miss," Lyssa offered me a warm smile."The pleasure is mine, Lyssa. Please, just call me Ava." After saying hello, I sat down at the kitchen island. Lyssa quietly left us alone.

"Ava, we need a table for the dining room," Joseph said, taking a sip of his coffee.

"Yes, but I like eating in the kitchen," I replied.

"We can still do that, but we have a lot of friends and family. They won’t all fit in here," he explained.

"Oh, I see."

"I want to have people over often, like Ryan and Draven do." His smile grew bright, like a child’s.

"I love that idea!" My answer made him smile even more.

"Now, I need to talk about something difficult," he said, his face turning serious.

"About your father?" I had been expecting this.

"Yes. He disappeared after we split up, but I’m worried he might try to come after you again." Joseph looked truly concerned.

"Joseph, he’s annoying, but he just sent flowers, called, and made things awkward when we saw each other. I can handle him," I said, thinking he was worrying too much.

"Ava," Joseph let out a deep sigh. His eyes met mine, full of fear. "My father is a rapist."

His words hit me hard. My heart started beating fast in my chest. Joseph began to tell me everything about his father’s actions, the investigation, the complaints they were reviewing, and how his father would be arrested. Everything I heard was horrifying.

"He’s a monster," I whispered.

"Yes, he is," Joseph agreed, his voice grim. "That’s why I want to keep you safe. Please."

"Alright, we’ll do it your way." Once I agreed, I saw the fear in his eyes fade, replaced by great relief.

"What do you have in mind?"

"I’ll protect you all the time. I’ll drive you to work and back. When I can’t, Flora’s driver will. And you need to move in with me. The last part is for your safety, but also because I want you with me," he listed, making it sound straightforward.

"But Joseph, didn’t we agree to take things slow?" I objected.

"If Steward gets arrested, and we’re sure your ex is no longer a threat, and you still want to go back to your apartment, I’ll agree." It sounded too simple.

"Just like that?" I asked, raising an eyebrow in doubt.

"Just like that. If you want to go back, I’ll accept it. I’ll pack my bags and move there with you." He grinned widely, making me laugh. He was impossible! "You can’t get rid of me, Ava!" He winked playfully.

I put my arms around his neck and gave him a quick kiss.

"I don’t want to get rid of you," I assured him. "If this is how it has to be, we can go to my apartment after work to get some of my things. Maybe have lunch together and look for a dining table. How does that sound?"

"You’re perfect!" He wrapped his arms around my waist and gave me a long, deep kiss.