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This is Luca…?

I wrap the olive jacket around myself, suddenly self-conscious that I chose to wear it this morning.

I feel like I know him. But I don’t really, do I?

I give a nervous laugh.

Luca’s expression is unreadable.

Is he joking?

“You got it right. It’s a greeting reserved for only my most special guests.” I swallow.

Luca arches his brow. “Interesting.”

Then he reaches up to peel the weed from his shoulder, before he tosses it back into my face.

I splutter in outrage, dragging it out of my hair. “What the hell was that for?”

“That’s how I greet my Omega.” He looks far too pleased with himself.

I stare at him.

How long has it been since anyone but my sister has insulted me?

Weirdly, I’m enjoying it.

Luca is not treating me like I’m made of glass and will shatter.

When I don’t reply, Luca looks uncertain.

He scuffs his boot along the grass. “This garden is a mess.”

“No shit.”

Luca runs his hand through his hair. “Did I say something wrong? Everyone says that I’m rude.”

“You’re honest.”

Luca’s shoulders slump with relief, before he drops to lie on the grass underneath the oak like he belongs there.

My breath hitches.

That is Evan’s spot.

Luca pillows his arms underneath his head and closes his eyes.

I study his pale eyelashes.

He truly is beautiful.

Finally, I meet the mystery Alpha. But I am a long way from figuring him out.

“Are you going to sleep, my Alpha?” I demand, pointedly.

Luca cracks his eye open to peer at me.

Am I only imagining the impressed glimmer in the stunning gray?