Page 110 of Omega's Refuge

He smirked. “That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you all along. I’m a good guy.”

I sighed. “I think maybe you’re the best.”

****

I had no clue what exactly Rex said to Mrs. Rodwell, but as the next few weeks passed, she was like a changed woman toward me. She spoke respectfully and even smiled on occasion, although her face looked like it might crack. She stopped interfering if the staff wanted to interact with me too. She wasn’t exactly pleasant, but I could tell she was trying.

Today was the day I was supposed to meet Jack. He was set to arrive at the ranch any minute, and I was buzzing with nerves. I’d painted some new pieces to show him, but I had no idea if he’d like them. Maybe he’d arrive in a bad mood, annoyed his brother had dragged him all the way out into the middle of nowhere to see my crappy art.

I was excited at the idea of working with him. I’d looked at his website and he represented some really talented artists. I’d be honored if he wanted to sell my art, but I wanted that to be because I’dearnedhis respect, and not simply because I was Rex’s omega.

I jumped when there was a knock on the cabin door. My pulse spiked alarmingly as I went to greet my guest. When I opened the door, Rex stood on the porch with a slightly younger alpha. Jack resembled his brother, sharing the same blond hair and light eyes. But Jack’s gaze had a harder glint than his easy-going older brother.

“You must be Jack,” I said, voice wobbling. I’d intended to sound confident, but my nerves got the better of me.

“That I am.” Jack held out his hand and we shook.

“Come in,” I said, stepping aside.

Jack brushed past me, but Rex stopped and gave me a quick peck on the mouth. The brush of his lips helped calm me, and when I closed the door, I felt slightly braver.

“How was your trip?” I asked brightly.

“Not bad.” Jack peeled off his overcoat and laid it over the back of the couch. “It was only about a three hour flight to Bozeman, Montana, and then a twenty-five minute drive to the ranch.”

“Sorry about the inconvenience of coming all the way here.” I twisted my hands behind my back.

Jack grinned at his brother. “It was worth it to see, in person, the omega who made my brother take the plunge. I didn’t think it would ever happen.”

“You should talk.” Rex laughed.

“Yeah, but I don’t want to settle down. You’ve been wanting to find your mate for ages.”

Rex looked embarrassed. “I knew it would happen eventually. You’re making me sound desperate.”

“No, you’ve never been that. You’ve had plenty of chances to take an omega,” Jack murmured. “You simply didn’t do it.”

“I was waiting for the right one.”

Jack snorted. “Goodness, Tanner. You’ve turned my brother into a lovesick fool. I have to admit, I think anyone who wants to settle down is nuts. But to each their own.” He studied me. “You’re very attractive. I can see why you caught Rex’s eye.”

I shifted uncomfortably under his assessing gaze.

“Hey, stop ogling my omega,” Rex said in a teasing voice. “You’re here to appraise his talent, not his looks.”

“Can’t I do both?” Jack laughed, winking at me.

Not sure how to respond, I kicked into host mode, “Please sit. Would you like something to drink or eat after your trip?”

“No, I’m good.” Jack continued to watch me. “I’d like to see some of your paintings now, if that’s okay with you.”

Rex laughed. “That’s my brother. Always thinking about work.”

“Well, that’s why I’m here, after all.” Jack shrugged.

“Oh, uh, of course.” I swallowed loudly. “They’re in my studio. Follow me.” My heart raced as I turned and headed down the short hallway to my studio.

I pushed open the door to my studio and the scent of oil paints and turpentine filled my nose.I’d arranged the newer pieces on easels, to showcase them better. When we entered the room, I stood to the side so that Jack could look at the art without me getting in the way.

---