Page 134 of Ember

I wanted to argue again, but the set look on his face made me realize I wouldn’t win.

I was just an omega skating by on my designation, in this alpha’s mind. “Fine.” I gritted my teeth. “I’ll look into it as well. Because I haven’t had so much as a black mark in six years.”

“Which is why it’s only for three days.” Mr. Arnold gestured at the door. “We’ll review when you get back.”

Fury rose in my chest, and for a minute I considered decking him. My omega instincts were on a rampage, feeling both betrayed and unsafe, a potent combination that made me want to lash out.

But two nights in jail had been enough for me. I reminded myself if I was in jail for assaulting my boss, I couldn’t cuddle my pack in my nest. So I left the office.

My head pounded, and suddenly all I wanted was to be around my pack.

I pulled out my phone. Alejandro was busy with a catering job, and Ember had a bunch of client intakes scheduled. Ben and Rian’s studio was a few blocks away.

I could hang out for a bit and then head home.

I texted Rian and Ben in the group chat.

West:

I’m gonnaswing by for a little bit if that’s okay.

I drove over there,assuming they might not be able to look at their phones. I could always turn around and leave if they replied and said no.

But I was curious about the studio, and anger churned in my gut. I would just wallow if I went home now.

And honestly, it still felt like I was at Ben and Rian’s house. I could lie around there by myself, but it wasn’t the same as the cottage I shared with Ember.

I pulled up to the studio and checked my phone.

Ben:

hell yeah come on.Use the side door.

I parkedand walked around to the side of the building to the door.

I knocked, and Ben opened up with a grin. “Hey, stranger.”

He stepped back, ushering me in.

I saw the allure for sure. On the other side of the window, Rian sat in a chair with thick headphones on and a guitar in his lap, while a massive man with tattoos sang.

“We’re recording, but you’re good to hang out as long as you want,” Ben said, gesturing around the room. “Are you okay? You smell off.”

His sensitive nose never stopped catching me off guard. My scent didn’t smell burnt. I got really good at not letting stress alter my scent.

I had to learn or suffer the hellish consequences.

I let out a breath. “I’m suspended.”

“What?” Ben’s voice was sharp, a hint of alpha bark. I felt my cock stir at his tone.Now isn’t a good time to get fucked, I told my inner omega.Later.

I told Ben about my boss.

By the end he was growling. “That’s discrimination. He can’t keep telling you that your hormones are the reason for your performance.”

“I know.” I rolled my eyes. Ben sat next to me, his knee brushing mine. My cock twitched and I tried to keep my thoughts pure. “But it’s a pain in the butt to call it out. You wind up sounding hysterical.”

“Okay.” Ben’s voice was calm. “You speak with HR and tell them my boss said my heats were no reason for a bad job on the morning of…and then give time and dates. That way it’s specific and clear.”

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