Rocky (Tales of the Were) by Bianca D'Arc Page B

seen much of what the men had been doing since that first outing.
    She stepped out the front door, lugging the dual baby carrier someone had donated—most likely Tim and Rafe. The boys waved their tiny hands and feet happily as they felt the fresh air on their faces. They loved the outdoors, just like their father had. Like Rocky did.
    Thinking of him, she wasn’t surprised to see him hefting a giant log into position on the side of the house. They’d had to clear a bit of snow the past week to get to the construction area, but the men were making judicious use of tarps and plywood to keep the snow out of the newly constructed areas. Eventually they’d break through the kitchen wall to join the new section on to the existing structure. It looked like that would be much sooner than she thought. These shifters moved fast.
    Maggie walked nearer the work zone, careful to stay a safe distance, but Rocky saw her almost immediately and came over.
    “How’s my favorite girl?” He leaned down to buss her cheek, making her feel all tingly. He smelled good. Like man, hard work, pine needles and fresh air. It was a heady combination.
    “Your mom and Allie talked me into taking the boys for a little walk.” She looked down at the carrier and Rocky bent to take the heavy burden from her. He lifted it like it weighed nothing at all, while she knew firsthand that it had to weigh a good twenty to thirty pounds with the boys in it.
    “A brilliant idea,” he agreed. “Want to see the progress we’re making on the addition? We’ll be ready to break through into the kitchen any day now. Maybe even tomorrow.”
    “Really? I had no idea you were that far along.” She walked with him as he strolled toward the work area. She noted he was careful to keep clear of any place there were people actively working, instead taking them through a side entrance where it looked like things were mostly finished for the day.
    “We move fast on tasks like this. A lot of our people work in the construction industry. Some of the best building companies in the country are owned and manned by shifters of various Clans and Packs.”
    “Really? I guess that makes sense, since you’re naturally so strong and agile.”
    “Plus we really like to work outdoors and build things in harmony with nature.”
    “You’ve done that here. This addition really blends with its surroundings. And it’s huge. I didn’t realize you’d intended to build quite so much on to your house.”
    “Well, it isn’t just me anymore. I’ve got two boys, who will grow into big fellas, and you to consider. A small cabin was fine for a bachelor, but I always wanted a big house if and when I had kids to worry about. Grizzlies need space to roam, even inside their dens.”
    “So then you really want us to stay with you? I mean permanently.” She was nervous about his answer.
    “I told you before, darlin’, I intend to raise these cubs. I want them with me. I want you with me, but it’s your choice. You can live here. You’ve seen the plans. You can have your own suite if you want it. I won’t force you into anything more intimate.” He placed the carrier down on the floor next to him as he strode forward to face her. “Not unless you want it too. I can be patient.” He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and gave her a lopsided grin. “At least I can try to be patient.”
    Her breath caught as he took her in his arms. She saw his kiss coming a mile away but didn’t try to duck. She wanted his lips on hers, wanted his warmth, his strength. The future was still uncertain , but for now she needed his caring, to know that he was here for her, willing to put up with her indecision and hesitancy…and fear.
    The kiss went from comforting to blazing hot in two seconds flat. Rocky’s big arms contracted, drawing her into his strong body. She felt buffeted by his heat, his maleness. Safe and protected. She was also turned on. Rocky could kiss like no one had ever kissed