Page 123 of Your Wild Omega

Moron. He’s like those villains in stories who release a plague just so they can profit off the pre-prepared cure.

My steps slow, and I halt. Linking my arms through Zack’s and Rickon’s, I say, “Well, I’m definitely not alone, but I guess we could always use more good advice.”

Brad brightens. “Phew, I’m glad you see it that way.”

“But,” I caution, “if we’re seen together, it will only fuel the rumors more.”

“True.” He smiles graciously. “I know a place away from the crowds. But one small problem.” He trails off, glancing at Zack. “I’m not sure it would be suitable for such a sensitive alpha.”

I cover my mouth with my hand. “Oh? But he can’t be left alone. Rickon would have to stay with him and I’m not sure . . .” Faltering, I check to see how Rickon’s handling this.

He sighs, lips drawn tight. “Whatever you want, Biscuit. I can handle Zack for a few hours if you think that’s what’s needed.”

I spin him toward me and kiss him hard. “You’re so understanding, alpha. I really want to get this issue cleared up fast, you know?” I flutter my fingers at Brad. “I guess it’s a date, then. See you after shooting tonight.”

For a superstar actor, Brad’s terrible at hiding his delight. I turn away from his victory smile. I have work to concentrate on before I put an end to his self-assurance and absurd advances.

Chapter forty-six

Red

Brad ushers me into a restaurant with gold fixtures and cascading modern chandeliers shaped like lightning bolts. A four-person band plays gentle ballads in the main room.

“Upstairs is quieter,” he informs me, offering his hand because I must be a delicate puppy who can’t manage steps on her own.

I may have knocked off work for the day, but I’m still in character, so I take his offered hand. “Thank you.” At least his scent doesn’t irritate me like some samples in the Omega Center’s books, so I shouldn’t vomit halfway through our meal, although I’ll keep it as a backup option if I need a speedy exit.

Brad leads me to a booth that has a semblance of privacy, but a few tables in the room are still in view. I glance at them as I settle myself, noting which diners might have the best view of us.

“I’m so glad you agreed to come out with me,” Brad says, sitting down opposite. “With all those articles, I was worried the media frenzy might upset you.”

Sure, the paparazzi aren’t pleasant, but I chose this lifestyle knowing a lack of privacy would be a factor. I can handle much darker things than some leaked photos. The only thing I can’t handle is the thought of losing my alphas. And enduring my damn heats.

Brad is child’s play compared to those issues.

The alpha accepts menus from a server and offers me one. “Do you want to choose, or should I order for you?”

“Hmm.” I lace my fingers together over the food lists. Obviously he doesn’t know about my limited reading ability. “Tell me your top three suggestions.”

He drones on about the qualities of the braised duck, a liver pâté, and a battered barramundi. All of them sound like torture methods.

“Anything vegetarian?” I muse quietly.

He startles. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t realize.” His smile falters as he re-examines the menu. Of course other alphas don’t notice. Only the men the universe designed just for me care about details like my eating preferences.

I settle for the mushroom and parmesan linguini and Brad orders a bottle of champagne. As the liquid sloshes and fizzes in my glass, I can’t help remembering the cocktail I drank while chatting with Callisto over the phone. Even in that silly situation, I felt peace.

I guess a scent match is no joke, even if it doesn’t work out.

“Well, this is nice,” Brad says, locking eyes with me. “I’m really thankful you said yes to this date.”

Date? Fuck off, slimeball. “Well, you offered to discuss the press situation,” I remind him. I paste on a polite smile and congratulate myself on restraining my temper.

“Yes, of course, but we’ve been so busy withThe Omega’s Racethat we haven’t had time to get to know each other.” He rests his arms across the table, hands a few inches from mine.

Damn, I hope he doesn’t believe this counts as subtle. I fiddle with my brooch to stay far away from his touch. “True. I’ve been going at a galloping pace since I have so much to learn.” I lower my voice like we’re sharing secrets. “Plus looking after my wild alpha.”

He leans in. “That can’t be an easy task, especially since Rickon’s, well, not as strong. If you need help keeping Zack in line, I’m here for you.”

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