Holding up a hand, Jackson said, “I know…and I’m forever thankful you had Norm, but sweetie…it goes both ways. Norm felt the same way but luckily his protective instincts took over and instead of thinking about dying, he focused on you. That’s why you both came through the ordeal and made it to the other side.”
“Even if that’s true…I don’t see how we can just forget about it.”
“I’m not asking you to forget about it,” Jackson said. “More like letting it be the past.”
“It’s in the past,” Theo cried out. “We don’t even talk about it anymore.”
“Fine…but the issue is…it’s still there. When both of you found out Smokey was your mate, the reaction was the same and for the same reason…neither of you wanted to hurt the other because of what you both believed was owed to the other person. And as noble as that is, it doesn’t make for a healthy relationship.
“Decisions cannot be made solely because of a perceived debt to the other person. It’s unsustainable and eventually resentment will start to edge its way in…and then what? By that time, it will be hard to remember why a person felt he owed the debt in the first place.”
Cocking his head to one side, Jackson studied Theo for a moment before continuing. “Do you know why the Fates gave Smokey to you and Norm?”
“Not really…”
“I think Smokey is a chance for you and Norm to have a happy life…one that leaves behind the trauma of the last few years. The Fates wanted you and Norm to have a fresh start at a relationship where everyone is equal and no one owes anything to anyone except to be a good, caring, and loving mate.”
The picture his Alpha painted in Theo’s mind was exactly what he envisioned. A family who would love each other, be supportive of each other and find ways to make each of them achieve happiness. It sounded so good, and was just what he wanted for their cub.
Without realizing it, he and Norm were already trying to do that, but now their circle had expanded and Smokey was part of it. Looking down at his belly, Theo placed his hand over his growing cub. It was imperative they get it right because if they didn’t—well, he didn’t want to think about that possibility. Glancing up, Theo smiled. “I want that…very much. I’m just not sure how to…to…”
“To do it? Theo, you’re an omega. That means you’re hardwired to be the person in a relationship that steers the ship. Norm and Smokey will take their clues from you. So if you make it a priority to regard them equally, they both will treat each other the same way.” Seeing confusion on Theo’s face, Jackson explained further. “Right now, your gut reaction is to protect Norm…like you did when you found out the Fates had given you another mate. But…”
“That was wrong because I hurt Smokey,” Theo interrupted. “I shouldn’t have done that.”
“No, but it was totally understandable. When I explained it to Smokey, his first reaction was to go after Arald and make him pay for hurting you. Luckily, he decided against it.”
Giggling, Theo said, “Smokey would’ve crushed him.”
“Yup…totally.”
“I’m glad he didn’t,” Theo said. “I wouldn’t want him to get into trouble because of me.”
“Actually, it would’ve been because of both you and Norm,” Jackson said, smiling briefly. “Smokey’s a good man, Theo, but I get the feeling his life hasn’t been an easy one.”
“Why? Did his parents hurt him, too?”
Shrugging, Jackson replied, “I don’t think so…but I know there’s more to him than meets the eye. After Mac clears you, why don’t you take Smokey and Norm for a walk in the woods so you guys can get to know each other.”
Theo’s eyes lit up. “That’s a great idea! I can make some sandwiches and pack us a picnic basket. A full stomach does wonders for relaxing a person; that’s what Dakota always told me.”
“He would know,” Jackson said, laughing. “It certainly helped to keep me and my brothers from beating each other up whenever we went camping.”
“Yeah, he told me about the camping trips you guys did. I almost peed myself laughing when he told me about the time you fell…”
“Shh…I haven’t told Steel that yet and I’m swearing you to secrecy. That is something my mate never needs to hear,” Jackson said, grinning.
Crossing his chest with his finger, Theo grinned, too. “I promise never to tell Alpha Mate but you better talk to Dakota because I don’t think he regards it as a secret.”
“I plan to,” Jackson said, his lips twitching. “In the meantime, take care of yourself and your cub. And if Mac gives you the all-clear, you can resume your chef duties, but I want your promise to take some breaks during the day. Before you object, I’ve arranged for my mother to help you. She needs to feel useful and, like you, cooking is her way of showing her love. So between her and Steel, there won’t be any reason you can’t take it easier. Is that understood?”
“Yes, sir!” Theo exclaimed, saluting cheekily. “I promise to take some breaks.”
“Good, but first talk to Smokey…the Fates gave you and Norm an amazing mate.”
“I…we will, I promise. I don’t want to hurt him ever again.”
“That’s a good start but the proof will be in the action you take to show it,” Jackson said softly. “It’s going to take time and there will be setbacks, Theo, but don’t give up. Smokey is worth it; I can vouch for that.”
