James’ brows lift as the corners of his mouth spread wide, smiling.
Wait—seriously? That’s… wow. Okay, I take back half the teasing. Maybe he’s not just another cocky alpha.
I can’t help but laugh. At first, I did think he was just a cocky alpha. But there’s more to him. Something deep and I can’t wait to find out more about him. To maybe even have him kiss me.
Don’t get ahead of yourself. It’s still Lincoln. He’s stubborn, bossy, and… sweet.
James nods his head before signing again.
And dangerous. Don’t forget dangerous.
Yeah, I know.
James doesn’t need to explain. He’s dangerous because of who Korbin is and the bullshit between him and Benton. And, yeah, okay… the same brother also saved my ass earlier. Maybe things aren’t as black-and-white as I thought. Maybe something’s shifting.
But this thing between me and Lincoln? It’s not going to be easy. I love my brother—but I also deserve happiness. And Lincoln… Lincoln makes my stomach flip in the prettiest way.
James stands to leave.
Okay, I need to get going. I just wanted to come and check on you. Let me know when the date is.
He winks before he continues signing.
I want all the dirty details. Also, know if Lincoln steals you away, I’m telling your brother you ran off with the enemy.
I laugh, shaking my head.
Deal.
James leans over, giving me a huge hug before turning and leaving.
When the door shuts, I pick up my phone and open the text thread with Lincoln.
Me: Can’t believe I said yes.
Lincoln: Can’t believe you didn’t say it sooner.
Me: Can I tell you something?
Lincoln: I’m all ears.
Me: I’m excited. You make me excited about what can happen. To give getting to know someone a chance.
Lincoln: All I want to do is make you happy. And you may think I’m crazy, but I want to do it for years to come.
I bite my lip, smiling like a fool, as I squeal a little. For the first time in a long time, the idea of “what’s next” doesn’t feel scary—it feels like the start of something I might actually want.
For the first time in my life, I don’t feel like I’m waiting for a rejection—I feel like maybe I’m beingseen at last.I’m not just the deaf omega, the poor soul who can’t hear. The omega whose scent match rejected her publicly. I’m not Benton Lennox’s little sister. I’m Bayleigh. A desired omega.
25
Lincoln
My bedroom lookslike a damn tornado ripped through it.
Two shirts are draped over the dresser, one is half-folded on the bed, another is on the floor because I stepped on it and got annoyed, and I’m standing in front of the mirror with my arms crossed as though I’m about to interrogate my own reflection.
My hair is a mess. My jaw’s too scruffy. My palms are sweating, and I haven’t even left the house yet.
