“I’m sorry this is the way we’re meeting again,” Ryland says softly, his attention fully on me now. “I would have liked to ask you out.”
Rowan joins us on the ground, sitting cross legged and across from me. “Yeah. Likewise.”
I swallow.
I would have said no, but they don’t realize it.
My plan was to stay as far away from them as possible.
But now, we’re in the same room, the three of us, and it’s impossible to not drown in their scents.
My inner Omega cheers in delight, and I give Ryland a smile.
Until the guilt catches up with me, and I stand, wiping my hands on my black leather leggings.
“You did a good job with this room,” I say evenly. There is a cat tower in the corner, a litter box in another, and toys scattered across the floor.
“Thanks.” Rowan smiles, and my breath catches.
Rowan has dimples, unlike his brother.
Perfect, charming dimples that make my heart flutter.
“We’re planning to build more,” Ryland adds. “Shelves and tubes on the wall so that everyone can climb and go where they want.”
It’s adorable, and a good idea.
It’s also my cue to leave.
If I stay here any longer, who knows what my inner Omega will try to make me do? Their scents are so intoxicating that it’s hard to think clearly.
“I’m sure the cats will love that,” I say evenly. “I’m going to take off if that’s all you need.”
I don’t even wait for them to say anything. I pick up my duffel and head to the door, ready to make my escape.
“Wait—” Ryland says, but I’m heading down the hallway before he can finish his sentence.
It’s rude and awkward as hell to scurry out of someone’s house like this, but I cannot be around them any longer.
Ryland and Rowan together smell like the pack I’ve always wanted. The future I had hoped for once I presented as an Omega.
I can’t stay here.
A strong, broad clothed chest fills my vision, and I almost walk into it, except for the pair of arms that circle around my waist.
I almost crashed into Travis.
We’re terrifyingly close, his hands like iron around me as I look up at him.
I’m thankful he can’t hear the beating of my heart as I step out of his grip. “Oh, hey, Trav,” I say. “I’m just going to head out now. The kittens are fine, by the way. Just being normal happy cats. You three are doing a great job with them.” I try to smile, but I’m pretty sure it comes out as a grimace.
I need to get out of here.
Now.
But he looks just as concerned and mournful as he was earlier in the parking lot. “Thanks. I’m sorry?—”
I take a breath to interrupt him, inhaling his smoke and wood scent.
