Page 38 of Aries
When I veered off toward the house I’d claimed and built onto, his eyes widened.
“You know, people joked about you guys being royalty around here. I guess it’s true.”
“Shut up,” I laughed. “It’s not. I’ve just had the chance to build onto it. This house was a tiny, little thing when we startedout. Now, it’s fit for more than just me. Lucky for you, I happen to have a very comfortable couch and a security system inside,” I said, nudging his hip with mine. “That way, if you decide to go on any more walks before sunrise?—”
“I don’t think we’re that far off,” he admitted. He was right, it was already starting to peek over the horizon.
“We can postpone our training for today. You need to be properly rested.”
“No,” he said so quickly that I startled.
He tried to soften it, but there was desperation there. Training seemed to be his lifeline. Learning self-defense and making his body stronger seemed to give him the same peace it gave me.
From the beginning there was something about Leon and Cassie that tugged at my heartstrings. They got under my skin more than anyone ever had. I couldn’t just walk away.
“I’m not training with you when you’re half asleep. That’s dangerous,” I said, my voice firm this time. “For now, give yourself a chance to rest. If you actually sleep then we can consider something later today.”
His eyes narrowed, and I expected more of a fight, but, thankfully, he didn’t put one up.
“Fine,” he grumbled. “Has anybody ever told you that you’re bossy for an omega?”
“Maybe a few times,” I said with a chuckle. “Mostly I just get shit for being too serious.”
“I like that you are,” he admitted softly. “It makes me feel safe. That’s not something I’ve had the luxury of feeling often.”
“You’re welcome here anytime, Leon. I’m going to go make some tea. That should help ease the anxiety and help you sleep. While I do that, you are going to call Cassie or text her and let her know you’re safe, and then get some sleep.”
“Yes, ma’am,” he said, a bit of a Southern drawl coming through.
I gave him a look that made him huff out a laugh.
“It only comes out when I’m tired. I’ve been out of the little town I grew up in for a long time,” he said.
I just chuckled and walked away, not digging deeper yet. I wanted him to feel safe, not like I was prying for answers. Nothing was worse than having to face people’s curiosity when you could barely face waking up every day.
I left him to his phone call before pulling down a tin of loose-leaf tea. I couldn’t stand teabags, this always felt more cozy to me. I pulled out one of my tea diffusers, scooped some in, locked it closed, and turned on my electric kettle.
Knowing I wasn’t about to get any more sleep, I opted for my favorite morning blend. It was a little fruity and light, the perfect way to start the day.
I could hear Leon’s voice floating in from the other room. I hoped Cassie wasn’t upset. As guilty as it made me feel, I worried that I was yet again, trying to be the ‘other’ omega. I never truly could tell if they were together or not.
I didn’t want her to think I was trying to steal her man. If he was off limits then we’d all just be friends and that would have to be enough.
The light on the kettle lit up, indicating it was ready, and I gently poured it into two mugs before carrying them into the living room. Leon was already curled up in the corner of the sofa with one of my favorite blankets pulled over him.
He looked so small.
I wondered what he’d look like in even a month’s time. Between getting actual meals, safe sleep, and training, I had a feeling he’d be a whole different person.
“Here’s yours,” I said as I set it on the table in front of him. “I added just a little bit of honey. Hope you don’t mind.”
“No, it’s perfect,” he promised, though Leon was probably the type to not tell me if it wasn’t.
“What did Cassie say?” I asked as I blew on the hot liquid in my hands.
“She’s probably not even awake yet,” he snorted. “I just left her a voice note.”
My stomach soured at the thought of her not even noticing he was gone. It was dangerous to be wandering around town. I made a mental note to let the sheriff know, and I bit my tongue before I could invite him to sleep here, where I knew he’d be safe.
