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Mate Match #7
Unlocking the Guarded Bear's Heart
Wren
I've traveled across territories carrying a prophecy no one wants to hear. The old clans sent me to warn the Council about an ancient evil waking—but the moment I arrive, I'm more distracted by the brooding bear shifter guarding the archives than the apocalypse I came to prevent. Jasper has spent fifteen years hiding in the shadows, protecting secrets that could destroy everything. He's gruff, guarded, and determined to keep me at arm's length. But my bear recognized him the moment our eyes met, and I've never been good at walking away from someone who needs saving—even if he doesn't know it yet.
Jasper
I've kept my head down, catalogued dangerous truths, and trusted no one for fifteen years. The last person I let in was murdered for what he knew, and I won't make that mistake again. Then Wren crashes into my carefully controlled world with ancient warnings and a smile that makes my bear wake up for the first time in years. She sees past my walls like they're made of glass. She makes me want things I buried long ago. But the secrets I guard could get her killed—and the enemy hunting us is older and darker than either of us imagined. To protect her, I'll have to do the one thing I swore I'd never step into the light.
Will the truth set them free? Or will the shadows swallow them both before love has a chance to bloom?
Join Jasper and Wren in this steamy Valentine's short story as they discover that some secrets are meant to be shared—and that the bravest thing a hidden heart can do is let someone in!
I've traveled across territories carrying a prophecy no one wants to hear. The old clans sent me to warn the Council about an ancient evil waking—but the moment I arrive, I'm more distracted by the brooding bear shifter guarding the archives than the apocalypse I came to prevent. Jasper has spent fifteen years hiding in the shadows, protecting secrets that could destroy everything. He's gruff, guarded, and determined to keep me at arm's length. But my bear recognized him the moment our eyes met, and I've never been good at walking away from someone who needs saving—even if he doesn't know it yet.
Jasper
I've kept my head down, catalogued dangerous truths, and trusted no one for fifteen years. The last person I let in was murdered for what he knew, and I won't make that mistake again. Then Wren crashes into my carefully controlled world with ancient warnings and a smile that makes my bear wake up for the first time in years. She sees past my walls like they're made of glass. She makes me want things I buried long ago. But the secrets I guard could get her killed—and the enemy hunting us is older and darker than either of us imagined. To protect her, I'll have to do the one thing I swore I'd never step into the light.
Will the truth set them free? Or will the shadows swallow them both before love has a chance to bloom?
Join Jasper and Wren in this steamy Valentine's short story as they discover that some secrets are meant to be shared—and that the bravest thing a hidden heart can do is let someone in!
61 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2026
5 people are currently reading
2 people want to read
About the author
Ciera Knox
32 books3 followersCiera Knox loves puppy cuddles and mountain life. She spends her days hiking or writing, and her nights by the fire with her hubby and a good book.
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Displaying 1 of 1 review
February 17, 2026
Nadler lived in isolation for years till Wren arrived to share ancient knowedge
Jasper thought his mentor had been murdered by the council so he kept some secrets to himself till Wren confirmed some details. Each feels their bond immediately and he lets down baseballs to embrace Wren. Garrett and corrupted followers attack again but the new pair and bonded mates save the day!
Jasper thought his mentor had been murdered by the council so he kept some secrets to himself till Wren confirmed some details. Each feels their bond immediately and he lets down baseballs to embrace Wren. Garrett and corrupted followers attack again but the new pair and bonded mates save the day!
Displaying 1 of 1 review