Page 12 of Omega in Hiding

I laugh. “You do seem really good with him. More relaxed than most alphas.”

He smiles at me, appearing flattered. “Thanks. I like babies. My friends think it’s weird that I love kids even when they’re not mine, but I think they’re the weird ones. Kids are amazing.”

“I agree.” I smile again as our eyes connect. Once more a little shiver of awareness shifts through me. I look away, disconcerted by my reaction to him. I don’t want to do anything that encourages him, or makes him think I’m interested in him. That would be a disaster. Especially since he’s already flirtatious. I’m flying under the radar while in Dario’s home, not trying to hook up with anyone.

“Uh, from the conversation you were having with the baby, I gather you were hoping to have a shower?” he asks.

“You heard that?” How long was he standing there watching me? I try to remember all the things I said and did. Hopefully I didn’t say anything compromising.

“Yep.” He looks like he’s trying not to laugh. “There was also something about you smelling like a buffalo? I also enjoyed the dance and the little song about sea creatures.”

“That’s humiliating,” I groan. “I thought I was alone in the house.”

“I assumed as much.” He lowers his admiring gaze to my mostly naked body. “Seeing as you’re only wearing those skimpy boxers.”

I resist the urge to cover my body with my arms like a blushing maiden. However, my face feels hot and I can only hope it’s not bright pink. “Baby Joesph woke up so I’ll just shower later.”

Paolo shrugs. “I could watch him for you. If you still want to shower.”

“What?” I lift my brows. “No. I… I can’t ask you to do that.”

“You’re not asking, I’m offering. I’m serious. Go ahead and shower,” Paolo says. “I’ll happily watch Joesph.”

I frown. “But… I can’t shove him off on you.”

“Shove him off on me?” He blinks at me. “I adore him.” He kisses the baby’s cheek. “And he adores me too.”

It’s true the baby seems comfortable with Paolo. Still, it seems wrong to impose on him. “That’s okay.”

Paolo looks mildly annoyed. “Why are you being obstinate?”

“I’m not. It just seems wrong to hand the baby off to you.” I rub the back of my neck giving an uneasy laugh. “You’re not here to watch the baby. I am.”

“But I’m telling you I don’t mind. IknowBaby Joesph doesn’t mind. Here, let me ask him.” He addresses the baby. “Little one, do you want your Uncle Paolo to babysit you while?” He frowns. “I don’t know your name.”

“Oh, uh, it’s Connor.”

He nods and addresses the baby again. “Do you want Uncle Paolo to watch you while Connor showers? Huh?” The baby drools and kicks his legs and Paolo laughs. “I’m positive that was a yes.”

His laugh is husky and warm, and my chest once more tightens as our eyes meet. I pull my gaze away, turning my back on him. “I don’t know. It feels weird to make you do that.”

“How many times do I have to tell you I’m fine with it?” He scowls. “Do you not trust me or something?”

I hesitate. “Well, I don’t really know you. How would I know if I can trust you or not?”

“True.” His expression becomes very serious. “But I’m a guest in Dario’s home. Do you think he’d let me stay here if he thought I was a danger to his child? No alpha would do that.” He sighs. “I’d never hurt one hair on this baby’s head. I swear. I’d never hurtanybaby.”

He sounds so sincere, it’s impossible not to believe him. His voice is fierce and yet somehow gentle, and I know instinctively, he’d do anything to protect Baby Joesph. “Are you sure it’s not too much of a bother?”

“I’m positive.”

I grimace. “Then, perhaps I’ll take you up on your offer?” I smile faintly. “Thank you, Paolo.”

“My pleasure.” He lowers his head, accepting my thanks.

“I’ll be quick,” I say, grabbing my shirt and a pair of jeans out of the dresser. I feel guilty about taking advantage of his offer, but I really do need to shower desperately. I’ve been so busy with the baby, and trying to give Alessio lots of support, my own needs have fallen by the wayside.

“Take all the time you need.” He sits on the edge of my bed. “We’ll be here waiting.”

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