I’d be happy with Cameron and Kelsey, but I’m not sure how I could platonically share with Emmett and Shyla. Maybe that makes me un-progressive when it comes to pack structure, but it’s just not what I envisioned for myself. I thought that when I built my pack that I would be pack leader and everyone would love everyone.
I sigh as I open the truck door. I’ve got to do better. Cameron and Kelsey are my world, and what they need to be happy should be my only focus. Not being a selfish asshole doesn’t mean I think Shyla is deserving or a good fit for our pack, but I could have tried harder.
I knock lightly on the front door, and Emmett is the one to answer. A pink towel wrapped around his waist as he smirks at me and directs me into the house. “Cameron and Kelsey are still in the shower,” he says.
I think about my Omegas in the same shower, and my cock immediately responds to the imagery.
Emmett must read my thoughts. “Different showers.”
“Of course,” I reply and plop myself on the couch, a place I’m more than familiar with, having spent so many of my summers here with Smith.
“So last night didn’t go well,” Emmett says, crossing his arms across his chest, flexing his biceps.
“No,” I reply.
“I know Shyla is intense, but you should give her a shot. For all of our sakes. Even if you two aren’t romantically involved, isn’t it more important to keep your Omegas happy?”
I shrug my shoulders, knowing that he’s right. “Of course. All I want is to see Cameron and Kelsey happy. But does she have to be so condescending?”
Emmett laughs. “How many female Alphas have you met?” he asks, as he sits next to me on the couch, his towel spreading slightly, showing more of his thigh that’s covered in light blond hair.
“Only a few,” I reply honestly. I’ve met Meera once and a few through work. “I know they’re the rarest designation.”
“Female Alphas have to fight harder to get what they want over a male Alpha. Shyla still has to prove herself every day as an authoritative figure. She might be an Alpha, but she’s still a woman. It’s been harder for her to find her place in this world. Be patient with her. She treats me and Kelsey well.”
I make a noncommittal noise but nod my head. “And what about you?” I ask him.
He seems concerned about everyone but himself.
“What about me?” he asks, his eyebrows furrowed.
“What do you want?”
“I would love everyone in my future pack to love each other and for it to be one big fuck puddle, but I think that’s a lot to ask for. It’s a lot of hearts and feelings to take into consideration.” He eyes me cautiously and tilts his head. “If you’re asking if I’m interested in something with you, the answer is yes, but only if you can be kinder to Shyla. Without that, I don’t think I would be interested.”
I appreciate his honesty. “I think based on yesterday, both Shyla and myself will be working harder to get along.”
“Oh, don’t worry, she’ll be getting her own conversation.”
I smile at the Beta, liking how he feels comfortable confronting me and Shyla. Something about it is so hot. He has a confidence that just wafts off of him, it’s refreshing.
“Cameron!” I hear down the hall and I’m immediately on my feet, barreling down the tight hallway. I’m met with a dripping wet shivering Kelsey who is wrapping a towel around herself and Cameron is in the middle of a giggle fit. “You can’t flush the toilet when someones in the shower. This house is old as fuck.”
Cameron laughs again, and when I look at him, I realize how free he is. He doesn’t seem like his usual anti-social self. He’s relaxed with Kelsey and Emmett. It makes me smile. It makes me want to try harder. If being with Kelsey wasn’t already a huge motivator, seeing him like this only makes the need more intense.
“Dom, get out!” Kelsey barks at me, giving me narrowed eyes. I’ll let her be mad at me for now.
“Cameron, are you ready to go?”
“Yeah, just let me get dressed.” Cameron leaves the bathroom to go get ready.
I don’t leave, and Kelsey glares at me as she clutches the towel to her chest. She’s dripping wet, and the water is pooling on the pink bath mat beneath her feet. I walk toward her like an animal stalking its prey, boxing her in against the wall. “I’m sorry for my behavior last night,” I tell her.
“Did you tell Shyla that?” she asks, holding firm.
“Not yet, but I’m going to.”
“Hmm, and you’re going to try harder to get along?”