Page 24 of Puck & Her Blades

I wish more than anything that I could brighten his life by truly dancing with him in my arms out on the ice.

That I could help him to fly as well.

Then Cygnus touches his forehead to mine.

“You are still heard,” he whispers like a prayer.

I draw in a sharp breath.

That’s the ritualistic mantra of the Omega Society who help abused Omegas and fight for equality.

It’s the last fucking sentiment that I expect the son of a Traditional to know.

But then, there’s a lot about Cygnus that isn’t how I’d expect from the press.

He’s shaking like he’s revealed his hand and is only waiting now for me to betray him.

What would happen to him, if I told Roarke that his son had said such a dangerous thing?

Carefully, I push my forehead harder against Cygnus’, before replying, “You’re still heard.”

Cygnus lets out a ragged breath of relief like he knew that he was playing a deadly game.

Yet he trusted me.

And that means the fucking world.

I steady him back onto his feet.

Cygnus’ gaze is fixed intently with mine. “I admire you so much because you’re as brave as my Alphas. I, on the other hand, can read and hide away in cozy nests, but am not good for much else.”

There’s something broken in Cygnus that’s made him think like that.

It’s taken me this long to spot it underneath his sweetness and dazzling beauty.

I’m going to annihilate whoever broke him.

Yet was it Roake? Sydney?

Or the men who are bonded to him and should have been protecting him?

I’m going to find out.

“You’re wrong,” I say, fiercely. “I already know that you can create amazing chocolates, stand up courageously to that psycho Wolfie, and nuzzle like a champion. I bet that you could do anything you wanted to. You’re smart, so don’t put on an act with me either. You can visit me in my Omega Cottage, right?”

He perks up. “Do you want me to?”

“Of course, I need my new best friend.”

Cygnus’ smile is shy like he’s never had anyone call him a friend before. But then, I’ve never said it to another Omega before either.

It feels precious, but also dangerous, like it could easily melt away like snow.

All of a sudden, there’s a loud rapping on the door.

I jump and swing Cygnus, until he’s behind me.

To my shock, he growls and steps out protectively in front of me, instead.

---