“What?” Her eyes go wide, and she blinks rapidly. It takes a second, but once her eyes focus, she looks around the room as if suddenly remembering where she is. “It’s eight?” She hugs the comforter to her chest. “Eightin themorning?” I nod and the omega’s mouth falls open as if it’s impossible to believe. “I don’t think I’ve ever slept this late before.”
“Really?” Killian tucks his hands behind his head. “What time do you normally wake up?”
The energy in Beth’s bright eyes dims, and she turns her head away from us, staring at the other side of the room. “Four.”
“In the morning!” I don’t mean to yell, but I can’t help it.
“Why the hell would you wake up at four AM?” Killian sits up, just as floored as I am. “That’s practically in the middle of the night.” He turns on the bedside lamp, bathing the whole room in a warm, yellow glow.
“My father liked to have breakfast ready when he got up,” she says simply. But it’s clear there’s a lot she’s not saying.
Killian and I talked a bit about Beth’s situation before dinner. He told me about how she practically admitted to her father beating her. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since. My biggest fear is that it wasn’t just physical abuse, but emotional as well. And considering that her pack forced her to wake up before sunrise, I can only assume what other ridiculous things they did to control the sweet omega.
“Jeremy got you something.” I hold up the necklace, eager to put a smile on the omega’s face. “Something pretty.” The charm sways, catching the light.
Beth’s big brown eyes go wide. “That’s forme?” Her fingers curl around the blanket, clearly wanting to touch it.
My feet move, the intense need to be closer to her pulling me around the bed. “Go on.” I sit on the edge of the bed, encouraging her to take it. But the omega doesn’t move. She just stares at the piece of jewelry with her lips parted, almost as if lost in a trance. “Do you like it?” I rest the charm on my palm, bringing it closer to her.
“Yes,” Beth whispers so softly, as she touches the engraved B. Her finger circles it once, before pulling her hand back. “It’s too nice.” She shakes her head, looking up at me. “I’m sorry. I can’t accept this.”
“Nonsense,” I say firmly as I undo the clasp like Jeremy showed me. Leaning forward, I wrap my arms around Beth’s smooth, soft neck. It’s completely free of any marks.How the hell did Killian keep from marking her?
Leaning forward, I inhale deeply. Beth’s warm vanilla scent slams into me and my fingers tremble. My heart races and my cock grows as I struggle to get the damn necklace locked.
“You got it?” Killian asks with a gentle lift in his tone. I’m sure he can sense my arousal and frustration building. Being so close to Beth is both torture and heaven at the same time.
“Got it.” I examine the lock, pleased.
But then Beth turns her head toward me, her mouth inches from mine, and she whispers, “Will you lift my hair?”
My hands shake as I gather Beth’s long, dark hair. The silky strands are so soft and thick. Then I lift, pulling it out from under her necklace. A fresh wave of her sweet aroma washes over me and my mouth waters.
My gaze drops to the charm, then lower to the soft curve of cleavage peeking out of the top of the comforter. “It’s beautiful on you,” I say, before ripping my eyes off her sweet body.
A small smile lifts Beth’s pretty lips. “Thank you.” She presses her palm over the charm.
I want to pull her sweet body to mine and kiss her deeply. But I force myself to lean back, keeping my distance. I know that Killian wouldn’t mind—he’s not an overly possessive pack alpha—but it’s important we don’t overwhelm Beth.
“Are you hungry? I try to discreetly adjust my cock as I stand. Killian’s dark eyes zero in on the movement, and he licks his lips.This is torture. “I think Jeremy has something planned for breakfast.” My voice pitches higher, pained.
Beth’s eyes widen slightly at the mention of food. “I’m starving.” She seems so much calmer today.
It gives me hope.
“Let me get you something to wear.” Killian slips out of bed. He’s completely naked, his limp cock swinging between his muscular legs. Beth stares at his impressive form, before looking at me. Her face flushes and she drops her gaze, embarrassed to be caught staring. I want to laugh and tell her she can look all she wants. We belong to her as much as she belongs to us.
“Okay.” I clear my throat roughly, trying to force myself out of the room. “I’ll see you down there.” I push my hands into my pockets as I walk to the door. My body screams not to leave, but if I don't leave his room right this second, I’m going to end up doing something I regret.
The second I reach the door, I glance back at the gorgeous omega one more time. She smiles, her pretty pink lips lifting so sweetly. All the fear, distress, and anger she suffered last night seems to be gone.
Killian did good work.
I just hope Beth doesn’t have another episode.
In The Pantry
Jeremy
