Page 59 of Claimed By My Exiled Alphas
I found myself relaxing as we talked through logistics, actually participating instead of just watching them make decisions. “I think we should have regular check-ins too,” I suggested. “All four of us, talking about how things are working and what might need adjustment. Not just letting issues build up until someone explodes.”
“Weekly?” Hollis suggested. “At least at first while we’re figuring things out?”
“Works for me,” Jace said. “Sunday evenings? I’m usually off shift by six.”
“Sundays are good for me too,” I said. “The bistro will be closed Sundays once we open, so that’ll stay consistent.”
“I can make that work,” Cassian said, adding it to his notes.
“What about jealousy?” I asked, because it felt important to address. “How do we handle it when it comes up? Because itwillcome up.”
“Talk about it immediately,” Hollis said. “Don’t let it fester.”
“And remember we’re on the same team,” Jace added. “Jealousy’s natural, but we can’t let it turn into competition.”
“Agreed,” Cassian said. “If someone’s feeling neglected or overlooked, that’s information the rest of us need to act on, not a failure on anyone’s part.”
We spent the next hour talking through more details, all of us contributing. How public we wanted to be initially - I voted for honest but not making a big announcement. How to handle town gossip - Jace said we should just live our lives and let people adjust. What we’d tell friends and family - Hollis suggested being straightforward about pack formation rather than making it seem secretive or shameful.
“What about the bistro?” Cassian asked. “How do we support that without overwhelming you or making it feel like we’re taking over?”
“I need to lead on all the decisions,” I said firmly. “But I appreciate help with the overwhelming stuff like permits and logistics. Just don’t make me feel incompetent or rescued.”
“Noted,” Cassian said. “Consultation, not rescue.”
At some point, Sarah refilled our coffees and brought more pastries. The afternoon sun shifted across the garden outside, and the conversation shifted from logistics to something more personal.
“Can I ask something?” Jace looked between Cassian and Hollis. “I know I have history with Talia from when we were kids, so reconnecting felt natural. But you two have only known her a few weeks. What made you so sure about wanting to try this?”
Hollis spoke first. “Sometimes you just know. The first time she walked into Pine & Pages, I could see she was someone worth knowing. And every conversation since has confirmed that initial instinct. She’s thoughtful, resilient, genuine in ways that are rare.” He paused. “Plus, my grandmother used to say that the right people make themselves known quickly if you’re paying attention.”
“And you?” Jace turned to Cassian.
“I’m interested because she’s the first person I’ve met who makes me want to build something permanent. Who makes me remember what it feels like to care about someone’s wellbeing more than strategic positioning.” He paused. “Also because she’s brilliant and determined and absolutely refuses to be rescued, which I find incredibly attractive.”
Heat climbed my neck at the intensity in his voice.
“That tracks,” Jace said. “Talia’s always been stubborn about doing things herself.”
“It’s one of her best qualities,” Hollis added. “Though she’s learning to accept help, which I appreciate.”
“Are we just going to talk about me like I’m not here?” I asked, but I was smiling.
“Yes,” all three said simultaneously, then laughed.
“But seriously,” Hollis said, “I think we should talk about what each of us brings to this dynamic. Because pack formation works best when everyone’s contributing something unique rather than competing for the same role.”
“I’m good at logistics and strategic planning,” Cassian said immediately. “Resource allocation, problem-solving, using connections to make things happen. That’s what I can offer.”
“I’m good at creating calm spaces and emotional support,” Hollis said. “Patience, listening, helping process complicated feelings. That’s my strength.”
“And I’m good at the practical, hands-on stuff,” Jace added. “Teaching, protecting, being present in physical ways. Plus I can actually cook now, thanks to Talia, so I’m not completely useless in a kitchen.”
I looked at the three of them, seeing how their skills and temperaments actually complemented each other rather than overlapped. Cassian’s analytical intelligence, Hollis’s emotional wisdom, Jace’s grounded practicality. Three completely different ways of being strong, of offering support.
“And what about you?” Cassian asked me. “What do you need from us? Beyond the obvious relationship stuff, what would make this work for you?”
The question surprised me with its directness. “I need space to build my own thing with the bistro. Support without being overshadowed. I need to know that my professional identity isn’t going to get lost in being someone’s omega.” I paused, gathering courage. “And I need honesty. Complete honesty. If something’s not working, if someone’s uncomfortable, if boundaries needrenegotiating. I can’t go back to trying to read someone’s mind or guess at hidden expectations.”
