Once I had showered off the grime, I headed over to the pub, hungry and ready to bitch. The fact that I kept thinking about Madison only made me more annoyed. I couldn’t have her, so why torture myself?
Jude was inside the pub when I arrived and he gave me a bright smile. The host seated us quickly, and after we ordered drinks, we stared at one another.
“So,” said Jude, “tell me about the omega that’s got you all twisted up.”
I sighed, leaning comfortably in my booth. “I literally met her today. And before you say anything, yes, I know I’m being fucking ridiculous.”
Jude only shrugged. “Sometimes that’s all it takes.”
“She lives a few houses down from my sister and is apparently dating an absolute tool. Fucking shame. She’s got all these dreams and he doesn’t let her pursue a single one of them.”
“Maybe he’ll trip in front of a bus.”
Jude’s response caught me off guard and I laughed so loudly a bunch of the patrons turned toward us, making me shrink down in my seat.
“What’s her name?”
“Madison.”
Jude stared at me, slackjawed. “Are you fucking serious right now?”
“Um, yes? Why?”
“Does your Madison have doe eyes, long brown hair, and wants to have her own design company?”
“She sure fucking does.”
“Ihateher boyfriend.” Jude groaned. “He’s come into the store I work at a few times and every single time, I’ve had the urge to smother him with a pillow.”
“That seems to be the general consensus about him. I’m also on the hating Tyler train.”
“You’ve met him?”
“No, but the way that she talked about him makes me think the world would be better off without him.”
The server set down our drinks and bustled off when we said we weren’t ready to order food yet.
“Cheers,” said Jude, raising his glass.
“Sláinte. I’m sorry we have the same taste in women who have unfortunate taste in men. How long have you been into her?”
“God,years.” He propped his cheek on his hand. “I’ve worked at Best of Nests for ages and Madison started coming in about eight, maybe nine years ago.”
I whistled low. “Damn. That’s a long time to carry a torch.”
“It’s pathetic, I know.”
“Nah. Some omegas are an instant hook. Nothing you can do about it. Do you think she might be a scent match and fate is being a bitch, keeping you on the hook until it’s confirmed?”
Jude sighed. “I mean, it would make sense, but that would make things even more complicated if she won’t leave Tyler. Do you think that’s the case for you, or just an initial crush phase right now?”
“Fuck if I know. Guess we’ll find out eventually.”
“I wish you luck.” Jude laughed. “I’ve tried dating, but every time I saw her at work, my fucking crush would rekindle. She’s not even doing it on purpose. If she were, maybe I could get mad about it, but she’s sweet and funny with everyone.”
“No offense, but I really hope I’m not looking into my future.”
“It’s rough. I’ve never been so weak for a smile in my life.”
