Total pages in book: 31
Estimated words: 28144 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 141(@200wpm)___ 113(@250wpm)___ 94(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 28144 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 141(@200wpm)___ 113(@250wpm)___ 94(@300wpm)
Tatum's body curled into the fetal position and vibrated with cold chills. I tucked the blankets snugly around him before hurrying to the opposite side of the room, to the wide fireplace there. I usually only used it in the coldest winter months, since my thick, hairy body tended to stay warm, but luckily, I had enough wood stacked next to the hearth to build a decent fire.
Once I’d done that, and the sweat was already beading on my brow, I returned to Tatum’s side. I wanted nothing more than to take him in my arms and comfort him, but I would never do so without permission. Instead, I sat next to him and waited for a sign that he needed me.
It didn’t take long. Within moments, Tatum’s body lurched as his eyes flew open. I grabbed the trash can and moved it just in time to catch his vomit. Once he seemed to be empty for the moment, I hurried into the bathroom and returned with two damp cloths; I used one to clean his face, and I placed the other one across his forehead.
“Thank you,” Tatum whispered in a weak voice. Even though he had to be feeling miserable, he was still so sweet.
“You’re welcome, Taterbug,” I replied, and the corners of his lips twitched at the nickname. “Is there anything you need?”
He gently shook his head no, but after a few moments, he whimpered, “So cold.”
“I’ve started a fire. I’m sorry I don’t have any extra blankets.” I tended to sleep hot, so I didn’t need them. I swallowed hard and hedged, “I can hold you if you’d like. Is that okay?” His pale cheeks pinked a bit as he nodded. I could smell the shift in his pheromones, and knew the blush was from nervous intrigue, but not fear.
My heart raced as I pulled back the blankets and laid in bed next to him. Tatum lifted his head from the pillow and rested it on my chest, nuzzling against my sweater. I wrapped my arms around him and held him close. Even through our clothes, his body was like ice against mine. The coolness was refreshing, but I hated that my mate was so sick.
I loved holding Tatum in my arms. The first time, it was from necessity; he’d fallen, and then was too sick to walk on his own. But now, this was by desire. Yes, he was cold and looking for body heat; however, the scent of his excitement in the air told the rest of the story.
I caressed my hand up and down his back to soothe him as his breathing evened out and he fell asleep once more. Tatum fell into a cycle of jolting awake from sickness, curling up to me for warmth after I cleaned his face, and then falling asleep.
Eventually, after Tatum got sick once more, he looked up at me; he appeared so pale and exhausted. His lips were almost white and they barely moved when he whispered, “I need to use the bathroom. I’m so sorry.”
“Don’t be sorry, Taterbug. You can’t help being sick.”
His eyes filled with moisture. “Yes I could. I’m so stupid; I was just so hungry.”
“You are not stupid,” I insisted. “The forest can be a dangerous place. But I promise to teach you all about it when you’re feeling better. I also promise that you’ll never be hungry again.” It was a big statement, but it was easy to make. Tatum was mine now, and he’d never want for anything.
I was curious about his story; how he ended up alone and hungry in the woods. But he wasn’t up to answering those questions yet. When he was, I would do anything I could to take his pain away, and make his life a happy one.
“For now, I’m going to take care of you. Please, don’t apologize; it’s my pleasure and honor to do so.” Tatum thanked me with a shaky smile.
I stood up out of bed and scooped my mate into my arms. Tatum was mostly limp as I carried him into the bathroom, and when I tried to stand him in front of the toilet, his legs wouldn't support him. I turned him around in my hold and helped him sit down on the porcelain before kneeling before him.
“Is it okay if I help you with your pants?” I doubted he could manage them on his own, but I wouldn't overstep any boundaries. Tatum gave a little nod and I kept my gaze locked onto his while I shimmied his pants and underwear down around his ankles. Then I stood upright, and Tatum rested his head on my soft belly while he relieved himself.
When I imagined being a Daddy to my boy, I'd always pictured taking care of him in all ways; even helping with his most basic, primal needs. But I couldn't fully enjoy the moment, knowing my sweet mate felt so horribly. Still, I was touched and proud that he trusted me to help him.