Selfish-Boy: Red Sky, Texas, #6

By Beau Brown

Griffin McTarn is a selfish alpha. His own needs are all that matter to him, and he'd be the first person to tell you that. When his real estate company is caught up in a scandal, he hides out in Red Sky, Texas with his mom. He's bored to tears in the little town, until he runs into sexy omega Jace Conner.

Jace is the opposite of Griffin. He's warm and caring, and he puts others first. While Jace doesn't usually let alphas pick him up at work, there's something about Griffin that makes him hard to ignore. Jace agrees to a little fun on his lunch hour, and just as everything begins to heat up, disaster strikes.

The two men tumble into an unlikely relationship, as Griffin tries to help Jace land on his feet. Of course, Griffin being the selfish alpha he is, his motivation isn't kindness. He simply wants to close the deal with Jace.

Jace knows the score, and isn't foolish enough to think he actually matters to Griffin, but when fate turns the table on them, both men have to decide what it is they really want out of life.

Even if it means saying goodbye.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Beau Brown
• Release date: Oct 16, 2020
• ISBN: 9798201766733

Book preview

Chapter One

Griffin

Twenty-five missed voicemails from Jared. That had to be a record.

I tucked my phone in my back pocket, and left the bedroom. I’d call him later. Right now, I needed coffee. Real coffee, not the powdered crap Mom seemed to think sufficed. I let myself out of the house and headed down the sidewalk. It was a clear day, no clouds at all in the sky. Birds sang merrily in the ash trees that lined the quiet street. It was a picture perfect neighborhood with residential homes, occupied by happy families.

To be honest, it made me uncomfortable.

I missed the busy hustle of downtown Dallas. I was only here to hide from the press. Silver Star Realty, the company I worked for, had gotten itself into hot water by promising to build lakefront condos that never materialized. Jared and I both had been swindled by our bosses, but my business partner, and sometimes lover, had chosen to stay behind in Dallas to weather the storm. I’d preferred to hide out in Red Sky.

I’d lost a bundle on the con, and was struggling to figure out if maybe I should just leave the country. Up until the shit hit the fan last year, I’d been building a great reputation as a go-getter in the Dallas real estate market. Now, my reputation was tarnished simply because I worked for the company that had fleeced its investors. Everyone assumed I’d profited off the scam, while the truth was I was barely able to keep my head above water while this controversy swirled. I was living off my savings, and couldn’t get another job at another realty firm in Dallas because the press wouldn’t leave me alone.

I reached the small grocery store on the corner named The Pantry, and entered through the automatic doors. There was a bakery at one end of the place, and I headed in that direction. It had become my morning routine to grab coffee here each day. There was usually an older omega who worked the morning shift at the bakery, but today it was a sexy red-haired omega. He had his back to me, busy slicing turkey, as I approached.

I ran my gaze down his lean body, taking in his broad shoulders, and firm ass. I’d been in Red Sky three weeks, and hadn’t sought the company of an omega in all that time. That was the longest I’d gone without sex since I was a teenager. My libido definitely perked up at the sight and scent of this attractive male omega. Jared and I weren’t exclusive. We each slept with other people when the mood hit us, and seeing this ginger omega, the mood definitely hit me. Problem was, even if this omega was receptive to me, what would I do? Take him back to Mom’s place to fuck?

I smirked to myself at the idea of that, and the omega turned and noticed me at that exact moment. Maybe he saw something in my expression that alerted him to my interest, because he shook his head and smiled.

Morning, I said, feeling oddly tongue-tied.

He shut off the slicer, and wiped his hands on a towel he had looped into his apron. What can I get you? His eyes were a light icy blue, and his lips full. Up close he was even sexier than I’d realized, and he was confident too. A lot of omegas were submissive to alphas, and didn’t make direct eye contact until they knew you better. But this guy, his self-assured gaze held mine unflinchingly.

Coffee. I’m in desperate need of a cup of your dark roast.

Size?

Large.

You’ve got it. He punched some buttons on the register, and went to get the java from the large brewer in the corner.

I once more scanned his body, wishing I could think of a way to ask him out on a date. I was off my game a bit lately. Hiding out in my mom’s house didn’t exactly do much for my ego. In Dallas, I’d been at the top. I could have any omega I wanted, and a lot of people knew me on sight. That worked against me now that I was trying to hide. Hence my spontaneous visit to Red Sky.

I had no idea when I’d be able to return to Dallas. I prayed it wouldn’t take more than another month for Jared to straighten out the mess our bosses had gotten our firm into. We were in the process of trying to remove the existing CEO and the COO, so we could replace them ourselves. I was higher profile than Jared, so he was happy to let me lay low while he orchestrated things.

Until I could return home, I’d have to make the best of my time in Red Sky. A sweet piece of ass like that ginger would make my time go faster. I toyed with the idea of just asking him out. Maybe he’d be flattered. Sometimes just being forthright about what you wanted worked best with omegas. I wouldn’t have hesitated to hit on an omega in Dallas if one caught my eye.

He returned to me, and he set the coffee on the counter. Cream?

As horny as I was, that question felt suggestive. Yes, please.

He bent over, to grab some half and half out of an under the counter fridge across from where I stood. His shirt rode up, and I caught a glimpse of his smooth, pale skin. I shivered, imagining him naked and writhing beneath me. I wondered if he had freckles on his body, and if the hair of his crotch was as red as the hair on his head.

Yeah. A lot of cream, please.

He glanced at me over his shoulder, and laughed. I was positive he could sense my arousal. Omegas could detect the scent of an alpha’s arousal as easily as we smelled theirs. He didn’t seem offended though, just amused. He straightened and returned to me with the cream. As he poured it into the coffee, he met my gaze. Just tell me when.

And where? I said, giving what I hoped was a charming smile.

His eyes glittered. Most alphas don’t hit on me until they’ve finished their first cup of coffee.

I was glad he’d picked up on my signals. It made it easier to proceed with operation Fuck the Cute Ginger. I’ve always been ahead of the pack.

He chuffed. You’re new in town.

I’ve been here a few weeks.

Here on business or pleasure?

I didn’t want to admit I was staying with my mom, that felt emasculating. So I massaged my answer. Business. I’m in real estate.

He nodded and set the cream down. He snapped the lid on the cup, and took my money. I made sure my fingers lingered against his skin, and he licked his bottom lip. I knew enough about omegas to know he was attracted to me. But that didn’t mean he’d fall into bed with me.

When’s your lunch break? I asked.

Why?

Why do you think?

Do you want to buy me lunch? He narrowed his eyes.

I hesitated. I didn’t want to get involved in a relationship, I just wanted to fuck him. Some omegas were cool with that, and some weren’t. I needed to see what kind he was. Not really.

His laugh was genuine. Okay, then.

I don’t see the point of pretending.

He raised his brows. Wow. You move fast.

Yeah. I gave a flirty half smile. But once I have you in my bed, I take my time.

He shivered. Are you for real?

Too much?

I mean, it’s kind of refreshing. At least you’re not pretending you want to get to know me. He leaned on the counter, and his gaze was pinned on my mouth. I think I like your straight forward approach.

Do you? Enough to reward me?

He straightened, and twisted his lips. Maybe.

Busy tonight?

Actually, yeah.

I sighed. That’s disappointing.

He hesitated, and then said, I might be up for a little something on my lunch hour.

Pleased he wasn’t just blowing me off, I smiled. Really?

Why not? I like to be spontaneous.

Perfect. Back home I’m known as Mr. Spontaneous because I love being impulsive.

He captured his lower lip between his teeth. Is that right?

Yep.

But I’m not going to your place. You could be a serial killer for all I know.

Little did he know it was a relief he didn’t want to go to my place. Seeing as I didn’t have a place at the moment. How about you tell me when you have your break, and I can see if I’m available for a little spontaneous spontaneity?

His expression was thoughtful. I take my lunch at one o’clock. Come back then, and maybe I’ll show you the stockroom.

I glanced around, grimacing. The stockroom? How romantic.

Now you want romance?

I laughed. No. But I want to be where we won’t be interrupted.

Good point. He studied me. "I live a few houses down from the store. We could go to my place. I have a dog, so if you’re a serial killer, you should know he’s very protective."

He won’t bite me, right?

Not unless I tell him to. He smirked.

Shrugging, I said, I’m willing to chance it. I definitely like the idea of hooking up somewhere other than the stockroom. Been there, done that. It’s not as fun as it sounds.

Okay, well, you can’t miss my house. It’s yellow with blue shutters.

Cool. I held out my hand. I’m Griffin by the way.

Jace. His palm was cool and dry. You’re really going to show, right?

Oh, I’ll be there. I grinned. You kidding me? What kind of a moron would stand you up?

Sometimes alphas are all talk.

I’d definitely done my fair share of screwing omegas over. I was no saint. But I wasn’t about to stand this guy up. He was fucking gorgeous. I’ll be there. Maybe even a little early.

He smiled. Okay. See you then, Griffin.

Excitement jolted through me, and I smiled. Sounds good. I turned away, feeling his gaze on me. I couldn’t believe I’d gotten lucky just getting my morning coffee. It was a beautiful surprise. I looked forward to the afternoon now, and it struck me I felt giddy at the idea of seeing Jace later. It was probably because I hadn’t had anything to look forward to in a while. My life had become dodging phone calls and lying to Mom, so she didn’t figure out I was in trouble.

I decided to pick up a few groceries while I was in the store. Mom had decided she was going to try being a vegetarian, and there was a serious lack of animal protein in the house. I wasn’t interested in turning my back on meat, so I grabbed some ground beef, and a few packs of chicken breasts.

When I wandered down the health and beauty isle, I noticed lube and condoms. I had no idea if Jace would be prepared with contraceptives later, so I grabbed some lube and a box of condoms. The last thing I needed was to knock up an omega while I was here. I shuddered at the thought.

The selection of rubbers was limited, and the best brand was only available in the economy sized box. I didn’t know how much longer I’d be stuck in Red Sky, but I probably didn’t need that many rubbers. However, it was the kind I preferred, so I decided to save money and go for the bigger box. I could always take the extra condoms back to Dallas with me.

I tossed the rubbers in my cart, and grabbed a few more items. Once I had what I needed, I made my way to the front of the store. I was surprised to see Jace was the only cashier. I got in line, but hesitated, glancing at the box of rubbers in my cart. Shit. I hadn’t thought about the fact he might be the one to ring me up.

I was about to back out of the line, but another shopper came up behind me, and boxed me in. The woman in front of me had a child with her. He was about five years old, and loud. He climbed onto the front of my cart, and he stared at me with big brown eyes.

Who are you? he asked.

I didn’t respond. However, when he started kicking the metal of the cart, I couldn’t hold my tongue. I frowned. Stop that.

He scowled, and I hoped he’d get down, but instead he latched his mouth on the metal bar at the top of the cart, and began sucking as if it was a lollipop. What are you doing? Get your mouth off of that. It’s dirty. My tone was sharper than intended, and I grimaced when he widened his eyes and sniffed, as if he might burst into tears.

I flapped my hand at him, as if he was a fly. Shoo... go… vamoose.

He shook his head. No.

I gritted my teeth. Get lost, kid.

You’re mean. He scowled at me. Mean. Mean. Mean.

No, I said patiently. I just don’t want you to get sick. If you lick dirty things, you might get a tummy ache.

Serve you right, you little snot nosed brat.

Mommy, he squealed. This man is being mean to me.

My face warmed as the woman turned to stare at me. Her blonde hair was sticking up as if she’d stuck her finger in an electrical socket, and she looked exhausted. I couldn’t blame her if she was. I was worn out dealing with her child, and it had only been two minutes. Unfortunately, the commotion made by the child had Jace also looking up from what he was doing, and recognition and confusion fluttered through his eyes.

I grimaced and pointed at the child, still firmly attached to my cart. "I’m not being mean. He had his mouth on the cart."

No I didn’t. The child pushed his bottom lip out in a pout.

He did. I laughed uneasily, addressing Jace. Why would I lie about that?

The woman stared at me suspiciously. Honey, stay by mommy. You’re not supposed to talk to strangers.

The little boy stayed where he was, clinging to the front of my cart. He pointed a chubby finger at me. You’re a bad man. Bad. Bad. Bad.

The child was heavy enough, I had to hold on tight to the cart so it didn’t tip. I wanted to shake the cart to get the kid off, but knew that would make me look heartless. I’m not a bad man. I just didn’t want you to get germs in your mouth.

The mother put her hand on the child’s shoulder. Come here, Luke. Quickly.

The child ignored her.

Come on… Luke. Go see your mom, I muttered.

The kid shook his head.

I sighed, and addressed the mother. Lady, do you think you could get your kid off my cart?

She gasped, and clutched her child tighter. She was acting like I’d tried to kidnap him, when the truth was I just wanted him to go away.

When I glanced at Jace he was grinning as he rung up her groceries. He seemed amused by my situation, so at least he didn’t think I was a kidnapper. I once more tried to reason with the woman. Seriously, can you please make the child get down? He could get hurt, I grumbled.

The kid bugged his eyes. Mommy, he’s going to hurt me.

No. I… I didn’t say that. I shook my head. I don’t want you to fall. Frustration prickled me, when the kid started wiggling around, making the cart unstable. Lady, please take charge of your brat.

She sputtered, and Jace laughed outright as he handed her a receipt. Have a nice day, Mrs. Browning.

She snatched the paper from his hand, and looped her arm around Luke’s chubby waist. He squealed and struggled, but she tugged him off of my cart. Somehow she managed to push her cart out of the store, while still holding the screeching kid.

I met Jace’s amused gaze. Some people shouldn’t have kids, I said.

His gaze dropped to the big box of rubbers in my cart. Looks like you’re making sure you’re one of them.

My face warmed. I’m just trying to be prepared.

His lips twitched. You plan to be busy while you’re in Red Sky.

The heat in my cheeks increased. A penny saved and all that.

I guess.

He rang up my items, still looking amused. Since he was busy, I was able to study him some more. He really was stunning. His hair was rich auburn, but his lashes were thick and black. His skin was pale, smooth, with just the lightest dusting of freckles over his perfect nose. His tight T-shirt showed off the fact that he had a lean, muscled build. The more I watched him, the more excited I was for one o’clock to roll around.

Once he had everything bagged, he handed me the receipt. Our eyes met, and his buzzed with interest. I was glad he still seemed attracted to me, and that the passage of time hadn’t made him regret his decision to hook up with me on his lunch break.

I’ll see you at one, Griffin. His husky voice sent a thrill through me.

I can’t wait. I kept my response PG, since there were customers in line behind me.

I left the store, feeling happier than when I’d entered. Maybe today would be less boring than the last three weeks had been.

Chapter Two

Jace

What was I thinking? Inviting some strange alpha to my house?

Once Griffin left the store, I started rethinking my impulsive decision to have sex with him. He was definitely hot and I wanted him to fuck me, but was that wise? I knew nothing about him other than he was willing to risk rejection. Although, he probably didn’t get rejected that often. He was way too confident.

Did I hear that guy is meeting you later? Trixie, my fellow cashier and best friend, walked up carrying her cash drawer. Her hair was pink today, a nice change from the light blue she’d rocked the last month.

Yep. I avoided her gaze. She didn’t approve of my free loving lifestyle. Despite her blithe appearance, she’d been with her alpha three years and was a big believer in monogamy.

I worried she was headed for heartbreak.

Is he walking your dog for you? She frowned.

In a manner of speaking. I smirked, and flicked on the CLOSED light for my lane.

Trixie sighed, shaking her head. When are you going to settle down?

I’m only twenty-four. I have no interest in settling down, and you know that. How many times do we need to have the same conversations?

Her green eyes were tinged with frustration. Honey, all these alphas are just using you.

And I’m using them back. I scowled. You’re such a proponent of settling down, but Hank has yet to claim you. Doesn’t that worry you? You’ve been together a while now. You’re two years older than me.

Her face flinched slightly. I’m sure he’ll ask me any day. You know he had a hard time of it last year. Losing a job is hard on an alpha’s ego.

I didn’t respond but frankly, I felt like Hank was milking the situation. He’d been out of work for months, and from what I could tell he had no interest in finding a new job. Trixie worked here, and also part time at a little bar called The Lemon Drop. It seemed if she could get two jobs, Hank could get one. But she defended him anytime I dared criticize him, so I mostly kept my opinions to myself.

She studied me. All I’m saying is, be careful. You act like nothing bothers you, but I know sometimes you’re lonely. It’s only natural; especially for an omega. Breeding and settling down is in our nature.

I sighed, a familiar feeling of irritation prickling me. You know my opinion on that. I think some omegas are better off not settling down until much later in life, and I’m one of those.

She laughed. You’re so silly. You’re nesting instincts will hit you one of these days soon, mark my words.

I gave her a patient smile. I guess we’ll see, won’t we?

Yes, we will. She looked very sure of herself as she greeted her first customer.

I shook my head and made my way toward the office. Once I dropped off my cash drawer, I went to the backroom and started unloading pallets from the morning delivery. As I stacked boxes, I thought about what Trixie had said. I knew that other omegas thought something was wrong with me because I liked to play the field. I especially stood out here in Red Sky, because it was such a small town. I was definitely different, but I’d just never had that need to find an alpha and stay with that one guy. I liked variety, and I wasn’t the type of person to cheat. That meant if I wanted to sleep with different alphas, I needed to be single.

About ten till one, I decided to make my way home. I hadn’t left this morning expecting to have company. For all I knew I had underwear on the floor of my bedroom, and dirty dishes in the sink. As I made my way down the sidewalk toward my little house, I enjoyed the scent of honeysuckle in the warm air, and the sound of birds singing merrily above my head in the trees. I felt lucky to live in such a beautiful little town like Red Sky.

My dog, Jangles greeted me at the door, jumping happily around as if my appearance was the most wonderful thing in the world. I knew part of that happiness was the fact I was going to feed him lunch, but frankly he was always thrilled to see me. He was a mix between a German Shepard and a Golden Retriever, and he’d caught my eye the minute I saw him as a puppy two years ago. He’d given me a soulful look, and a little whine as I approached, as if we were already pals.

Hey, Jangles. I grinned, tangling my fingers through his honey colored fur.

He spun around and ran into the kitchen, and I followed. I grabbed his stainless steel bowl from the corner of the kitchen. I scooped the food, laughing as he stared at me intently. I wet the kibble under the faucet, set the food on the floor, and made him sit and wait. We did this little ritual every time I fed him. He was smart, and he’d learned the rules fast even as a puppy.

Okay, I said, and he lunged forward and began gobbling up his food.

Sighing, I looked at the few dishes in the sink. Nothing too horrible. I didn’t really have time to clean them before Griffin would probably arrive. I went into the bedroom, pleased to see I’d made the bed at least. I’d changed the sheets last night, and there were no undies on the floor, that was a win right there. I went into the bathroom and gave myself a quick refresh of my deodorant. I’d been doing a lot of stacking of heavy boxes today, and I didn’t want to gross Griffin out by stinking.

I felt nervous, which was unusual for me. I wasn’t easily intimidated by alphas. I slept around happily, and I felt confident of my sexual prowess. But this was so spontaneous, I was uncertain of how it would go. I’d never let an alpha pick me up at work before. I’d gone home with plenty of alphas from bars etc, but at work I was usually just in work mode. Griffin had definitely surprised me by hitting on me. Even more surprising, I’d taken the bait.

When the doorbell rang, I glanced at my watch. He was five minutes early. Shit. The dog was barking like we were under siege, and I blew out a shaky breath and headed to the door. When I opened it, I told Jangles to sit, and he obeyed, whining.

Griffin looked uneasy as he studied the dog. Promise he won’t take my throat out?

I laughed. Nah. He might take a leg off, but he won’t go for the throat.

He grimaced. I’m laughing on the inside.

My smile widened as I watched him through the screen. It’s not too late to back out.

He raised his brows. I don’t want to back out. Did you want to? Is that why you’re saying that?

I shook my head. No. I’m just keeping our options open.

He twisted his lips and his gaze appeared heated, even through the screen. I’m only leaving if you send me away.

I unhooked the screen and gave Jangles a stern look. Behave.

He wagged his tail as if acknowledging he’d heard me, although his golden eyes didn’t leave Griffin.

Griffin slipped in through the screen, eyeing Jangles warily. That’s a good dog.

Jangles pricked his ears.

He’ll relax in a minute. I closed the door behind Griffin. I didn’t see a car out front.

He grimaced. That’s because I walked.

Really?

Yeah, I’m… uh… staying not far from the store. He avoided my gaze, and glanced around the cozy living room. This is nice. Homey.

Thanks. I got the feeling from his tone homey wasn’t his thing. Are you renting a place?

He continued to avoid my gaze. Um… yep. Well… no… I’m staying with a friend. Family. I’m staying with family.

I laughed. That story morphed a lot.

He sighed. Does it really matter where I’m staying?

I frowned. No. Not unless you’re staying with a boyfriend or something. We didn’t really have much of a chance to talk earlier.

He shrugged. I didn’t come here to talk.

No. I studied him, feeling excited at how blunt he was about his reason for being here, but also a bit annoyed. He didn’t care about getting to know me, which had been a selling point at first. But now, I found it impersonal. Cold. Even one-night-stands were generally warmer than he was. At least most alphas I met in a bar bought me drinks, and pretended to give a shit about me. You’re single, right?

He hesitated. Yes.

Okay. I don’t sleep with guys who have significant others.

I’m not in a relationship.

I nodded. Great.

He twisted his lips. So… where did you want to do the deed?

I laughed, feeling edgy. Would you like some wine? I moved to the kitchen, where I had a bottle of white wine chilled in the fridge. I have to go back to work, so I can’t really drink, but I can get you some wine.

He followed me. I don’t need wine.

"Nobody really needs wine."

Although, I’d kill for a glass.

He moved closer to me. "Let me be blunter; I don’t want any wine. I want you. Naked."

A flush of heat moved through me, and I laughed nervously. This is really weird. Right?

He lifted one shoulder. Why?

I don’t know. I had my back against the fridge, and he was facing me, only inches from me. He smelled nice, his cologne was crisp and masculine. We don’t know anything about each other.

Not true. I know you live in a yellow house with blue shutters, and that you have a dog named Jangles.

I smiled. And I know that you work in real estate and might be staying either with a friend or family. Not that much, really.

His eyes narrowed. How much do you really know about people you pick up in a bar?

We usually spend a few hours getting to know each other. This was fast. Really fast. We said hello and next thing I knew we had a date. I laughed.

I thought you liked being spontaneous.

I do. But I don’t like being reckless. I’m not sure which one this is yet.

He nodded. Okay. I don’t mean to rush you. I want you to feel comfortable. Problem is, you only have an hour for lunch.

Yeah.

He glanced toward the bedroom door. Let’s get undressed, lie on your bed, and talk. How’s that sound?

I snorted a laugh. You want to talk naked?

Sure. Why not? Let’s tell each other a bit about ourselves, and then go from there.

I raised my brows. Seems kind of weird.

Just try it. His tone was coaxing.

I sighed, and nodded. I guess it can’t hurt.

Lead the way.

I slipped past him, my pulse fluttering. It wasn’t that I wasn’t attracted to him, mostly I wasn’t sure how to get things rolling. The only time I’d ever picked up strangers was after drinking. This was bizarre because we were both sober, and it was the middle of the day. Maybe I liked the idea of being spontaneous, more than actually being spontaneous.

He followed me to my bedroom, and Jangles jumped on the bed. I laughed, but Griffin just looked annoyed. Get down, I commanded, and the dog obeyed. I’ll close the door. Don’t worry, he won’t be staring at us the whole time.

Griffin began unbuttoning his shirt as he watched the dog. I don’t have a dog.

I had a feeling.

It’s that obvious?

You’re looking at Jangles like he’s a dragon.

He laughed. Am I?

Kind of. I’ve always had dogs. They’re great company.

I’ll take your word for it.

I led Jangles outside the door. You stay out here, boy. We’ll be done in a minute.

Chuffing, Griffin said, I might need more than a minute.

My laugh was too loud, and I winced inwardly. What had happened to my game? I was usually way smoother than this. I closed the door in Jangles face, and turned toward Griffin. He already had his shirt off, and my gaze ran over his smooth, tanned torso. His arms were lightly muscled, his abs defined. My dick twitched with interest when our eyes met. He was sexy and he fucking knew it. No wonder he wanted to get naked and talk. He was confident the sight of his body would get me going.

He was right.

I pulled my T-shirt off and tossed it on the end of the bed. He was wearing nothing but his briefs by the time I simply had my shirt off. He reclined on the bed, grinning. I had to admit, he was charming when he wanted to be. He had a boyish quality as he lay against my pillows in nothing but his underwear. A lock of dark hair fell on his forehead, and his gaze was mischievous.

So tell me all about yourself, he said.

I smiled, and undid my jeans. I love long walks on the beach, and chocolate covered strawberries.

Naturally.

I have a dog named Jangles, and no family in Texas.

Where does your family live?

They don’t.

Oh.

I was born here. Only child. Both of my parents are long gone.

He frowned. How old are you?

Twenty-four. I tilted my head. Why?

You seem young for both of your parents to be deceased.

I winced. They died within two months of each other. My dad had a heart attack, and Mom couldn’t go on without him. She just seemed to lose the will to live. It was sad, but also kind of touching in a strange way.

Huh. I can’t imagine that sort of love.

Me neither.

He brightened. Hey, that’s something we have in common.

I smiled. Yay. We’re both heartless and unromantic.

He sighed. I can’t help it. I just don’t relate to the whole concept of ‘I can’t live without you’. I also fail to see what the point is of claiming an omega.

Really?

Yep. You can get everything you need from casual connections, without all the emotional baggage that comes with the claiming.

I always thought it was mostly to procreate.

I guess. I still find it odd. Claiming another person as yours. It’s so… cave-man-ish.

I pushed my jeans down, less self-conscious now and more curious about why he believed what he believed. So, you don’t plan on ever taking an omega?

He sighed. I’m sure I’ll be pressured into it eventually, but I’ll stall as long as possible. I’m in no rush to have brats of my own.

Yeah, you didn’t seem enamored of that kid in the store today.

He sniffed. Nope. He’s the kind of child that makes me want to push off having kids forever.

From what I hear, when they’re your kids, it’s different.

So they say.

I climbed on the bed, inching toward him. Have you ever been in love?

Nope. He hid his gaze. What about you?

I thought I was in love once. I frowned. But now I think it was just infatuation. He was married, and I think the fact that I couldn’t have him was seductive.

Interesting. So, you want what you can’t have?

I smirked. Don’t we all?

Yes and no. I’m not good at relationships, mostly because I don’t care about pleasing others as much as myself.

That’s blunt.

He shrugged. I don’t see the point of lying. I’m not trying to trick you. We’re already going to sleep together.

True.