Page 51 of Omega's Reluctant Mate

It was perfect, or at least I hoped so.

“Was that ok?” I asked as we came up for air. “I’m not… exactly used to kissing.”

Corey smiled against my lips. “You did fine, and the plus side? Practice makes perfect.”

I chuckled. “Is that your way of telling me you want me to keep kissing you?”

“I won’t argue if you want to keep practicing with me.”

Our lips came together again, and I allowed myself to just live in the moment. No business meetings, no plans for expansion, no excuses to refuse invitations. It was just Corey and I.

“I love you,” I murmured against his lips as we parted again.

“I love you too,” he replied, then he froze in my arms. “Wait… does that mean?”

I pulled back just enough to meet his gaze. “I love you, and I want you as my mate. I want a family with you. All of it.” I paused. “The sex part scares me a bit though. It’ll be my first time, and I want it to be good for you.”

He smiled, and it was beautiful. “The first time with someone is always a bit awkward, even if you’ve done it before. There isn’t a checklist of things to do and instructions on how to do them. We guide each other to what feels best. That’s the way it’s supposed to be.”

“I love you,” I said again, warmth for this man flooding my chest. “I love you so much.”

His eyes glimmered with unshed tears, but I knew they were of joy. “I love you too.”

“Dinner is ready, monsieurs.”

I jumped at Henri’s voice, and turned to see the stern old man trying to hide a smile.

I straightened, tugging down my suit jacket as if I hadn’t just been caught discussing sex with my mate. “Um, thank you Henri. Tell the chef we’ll be right there.”

“Oui, Monsieur Starling. Shall I move Monsieur Eaves’ things to your suite while you eat?”

I glanced at Corey, and we both burst into giggles.

“Yes, please,” I replied, turning back to Henri. “That would be great.”

He nodded and turned to leave, then paused and met my gaze. “Do not worry about the volume tonight monsieur. I purchased an excellent pair of noise-canceling earbuds the last time your brother visited.”

My jaw dropped and I stared as he disappeared around the corner.

“Did he just…?” Corey asked.

“Yes,” I replied. “Yes he did.”

“Oh my God.”

I looked over to see Corey hiding his face in his hands.

I laughed. “Honestly? I’m kinda impressed he would be so bold. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Henri so brazen.”

“Can we go eat now?’ Corey muttered, still covering his face.

“Absolutely, omega-mine.”

Corey’s head popped up, eyes wide, and an awestruck expression. “Say it again,” he whispered.

“Omega-mine.”

“Again…” nearly impossible to hear.