Page 20 of Gamers' Omega

“Oh, we will,” Ian laughed. “Don’t worry, you’ll see why it’s our favorite.”

“Can’t wait,” I replied as I hustled back to put in their order.

∞∞∞

The morning was quiet as I stared at the guest room ceiling.

I’d heard Tony leave sometime before dawn for his shift at the coffeeshop, but the other three had yet to start their days. However, experience told me that they’d be up soon enough.

It was only a few minutes later when soft chirps sounded from the living room, which meant that Beck was up.

I sat up and slid my feet into my slippers. Then I took a moment to study my overnight bag where it rested on a chair.It held several changes of clothes, but I hadn’t yet decided on whether I’d be leaving spares there.

“What’s wrong with me?” I muttered. “One: they’re different. Two: it’s not like I’m dating them. There’s no expectation for more.”

I shook my head in an attempt to rid myself of my doubts.

Finally I stood and padded out to the hall. The scent of coffee wafted from the kitchen, but the brewing sounds told me that it wasn’t done yet. I turned to the living room, where I could hear Beck’s soft voice and Pico’s chirps.

The sight that greeted me almost made me melt. Beck was seated in front of Pico’s cage, leaning in and talking to the bird, who was standing on the cage door and gazing up at his human.

My imagination ran wild, and for just a moment I had a flash of the alpha gazing down at a newborn with the same devotion.

“I like bird butts,” Beck sang softly. “I like bird butts…”

I stifled my giggle with my hand.

“Sweet, isn’t it?” Ian whispered as he slid one hand around my waist.

I stiffened at the unexpected touch.

Ian immediately removed his hand. “Sorry, I should have asked if you’re ok with random contact.”

I relaxed. “I’m not used to it is all.”

“That’s a shame,” Ian whispered. “Humans need touch.”

A memory of some long-dumped boyfriend rose from the depths:“Alphas need sex.”

“I always like to watch this,” Ian was saying as I rid myself of the unwanted thought. “He’s so dedicated when he’s trying to teach Pico something new.”

“Does he do this often?”

“Mm-hmm. But this is the part that’s so sweet. He has to repeat something over and over like that, and it can take weeks if it’s a harder phrase. Once Pico starts to say it he shifts to praising and giving treats. This though? He doesn’t doubt. He knows Pico will learn it as long as he’s patient enough to teach it.”

“I can hear you,” Beck grumbled from across the room.

“Then you know I called you a sweet and patient man,” Ian retorted.

“Exactly,” Beck snorted. “Besmirching my good name. I’m a ruthless competitor, sweet and patient don’t play into that.”

Ian laughed and strode to where Beck sat. He draped his arms over the other man’s shoulders and kissed his cheek with a loud smack. “You’re the sweetest. But your secret is safe with me.”

“Asshole,” Beck replied, though I could hear the smile in his voice.

“Coffee or tea this morning?” Ian asked.

“Chamomile please, so I can share with Pico,” Beck answered.