Read Online Claiming Emma [Novikov Clan 3] (Siren Publishing Ménage Everlasting) by Alicia White - Free Book Online Page A

in a more remote location. Emma was aware of most of the stories, since he would tell her bits and pieces every night.
    “How do you know I’m your mate? Why would your brothers think that the four of us could be together? I’ve never even met them.”
    “When you walked into the bar, the cool breeze carried over to me, and I caught your scent. It drew me to you instantly, and I knew you were my mate. I could barely believe it was really you, in the same room with me. You stole my breath, Emma. I could scent that you were upset, hungry, and tired. My only thought was to protect you and care for you.”
    “What did I smell like? I hadn’t showered for three days, so I’m assuming it was pretty gross.”
    “Nothing about you is gross. I can’t really explain it, a subtle scent of soft vanilla and brown sugar. I’ve told you that the youngest brother goes in search of the mate and brings her home to share. I’ve kept you to myself for over a month. It’s not fair to them, Emma. They want you home.”
    “Maybe I’m not their mate. What if I’m not?”
    “You are. I know you are, without a doubt. We can scent our mate, our true one, the one that fate picks for us. It draws me to you.”
    “Fine, my scent drew you to me. How can you be so sure that I will be with your brothers? I can’t even believe I’m having this conversation.” She shook her head, rubbing her forehead. “Why would you want to share me? I just don’t get it.”
    “It’s our way. The younger brother goes in search of the mate that will be shared with all the brothers.” Scooting toward her, Chayton leaned against the couch. He extended his hand and waited for her to take it. He laced their fingers together. “I know that this is all really new and probably a bit unbelievable. That’s why I’ve been telling you bits and pieces, wanting to prepare you.”
    “I thought those were all just stories.” It was so unbelievable. He had just changed into a bear in the middle of her living room.
    “I know.” Chayton kept his hand open, allowing her to touch and comfort him.
    “You’ve been talking to your brothers every night? And now what…they want you to take me back?”
    “Yes, they want to meet you.”
    “Why? Why should I go back there?”
    “My brothers have been waiting many years to meet their mate. I found you, and I’ve kept you to myself because I’m a selfish ass.” Shaking her head, Emma was ready to defend his actions. “It’s true, Emma. We aren’t completely human, it’s different for us. I fell in love with you in only a couple days. I know that you’re the one for me, for us. Mahkah and Takoda are missing you, craving you. I can’t keep you to myself any longer, it’s not fair.”
    “What about my life?” As soon as the words were out of her mouth, she realized she didn’t have much of a life. There wasn’t anything of value to give up, except for maybe her one-bedroom apartment and a job going nowhere at the bank.
    “I know this must be difficult. I’m proud of you. You’re handling this better than I had ever hoped.”
    “Is there some sort of timeline on all this? I mean…I’m…this is a lot to take in. I love you, Chayton, I really do. I–I just don’t think I really want to go home with you right now. It feels like…like my future is set. You know?” Moving off the couch, Emma paced around the living room, trying to take it all in. To say she was afraid was an understatement.
    How could she be a mate to not one, but three men? Was she really okay with Chayton shifting in her living room? He freakin’ changed into a bear. What the hell was wrong with her? She should be running out of her apartment screaming or at least telling him to leave, but she really did love him. She’d never felt like this for anyone, had never been in love, for that matter. Pushing her fingers through her hair, she stopped and stared at him. He looked afraid and insecure. Does he think I’m going to kick him out?