I tell him everything and he whistles, grabbing his water bottle and opening it up before sprinkling a few drops on the floor.
“What the hell are you doing?”
“Pouring one out for another great Omega seduced by a pack.”
“Oh, shut up,” I tell him, grabbing the water bottle. “It’s just a date.”
“I want to be as delusional as you one day,” he says with a smile.
I feel self-conscious and Riley clearly catches on as he grabs the seat next to me and crowds my space.
“Hailey?”
“Yeah?”
“Men don’t just do that shit, okay? Not all Alphas or men are out to use you. I think you actually found some good ones. It’s okay to let yourself have something.”
My eyes water, and he rubs my shoulder.
“Pack Omegas have to be strong. They hold everything together. That’s not me.”
His brows furrow.
“Who told you that crock of shit?”
I don’t want to talk about my mom again tonight, so instead I look away.
“Listen, as your Omega fairy godfather you never asked for or wanted, let me tell you one truly honest thing. You’re way stronger than you think, first and foremost. But beyond that, you don’t have to be anyone other than yourself to be loved. To be the center of a pack,” he says softly.
“Then how come you don’t want one?”
He smirks and leans back in his chair. “Different trauma. Maybe one day I’ll be able to give up control, but today isn’t that day.”
“You really think they could be legit?”
“I mean, I don’t think guys are just buying BMWs for women they aren’t interested in.”
I swallow and pick at my nails.
“But Nate…”
“Is a hot firefighter? Fuck the rest.”
“Fuck the rest?” I repeat.
“Yeah, we told you he was into you. I guess now isn’t the best time to say I told you so.”
“He was with my mom…”
“So the man has a type. Looks wise, anyway,” Riley says, and I’m thankful.
He knows I have some issues with my mom, but not all the details. I’m glad he doesn’t think that we’re alike.
“Go on the date. Give them a chance. Fuck, Hailey, give yourself a chance.”
“What about Lavender Moon?” I whisper.
“Oh, you sweet summer child. You don’t quit Lavender Moon until they promise you the world. I’ll see you next shift,” he says, patting the top of my head before walking away as I soak in all his Omega wisdom.
