Page 30 of A Home for His Omega

He led Journey through their routine of tricks – running, jumping, and playing dead. Journey perched on top of one of the boxes. “Shake, baby boy,” Henry said, laughing happily when Journey held up his paw. “Speak.”

“Woof.”

Henry hugged Journey as the crowd cheered again. “Without our sanctuary, Journey wouldn’t be here with me. Neither would my chicken Sophie or my foul-mouthed parrot, Columbo. Furever Home Sanctuary is doing good work and can use all the help we can get.” He smiled one last time. “Again, thank you so much for being here and for your donations. Enjoy the food, company, and music that my papa prepared for you.”

The crowd clapped enthusiastically as he left the stage with Journey. Teague grabbed the puppy basket.

As soon as they reached the bottom of the stairs, they were surrounded by people who wanted to see the puppies and Journey. They shared stories of their pets with Teague and Henry and asked about the sanctuary.

“This year, we’re planning on adding another goat barn specifically for dairy goats,” Henry said. “We have about six at the moment that are lactating, but we don’t have room to process their milk. I’d like to make goatmilk soap and sell it in town to bring in some a bit of money for the sanctuary.”

“You would?” Teague asked, brows raised.

Henry flushed. “Yes, I would. We already sell chicken and duck eggs in town, but the more we can do, the better.”

“There,” Mrs. Riverty said, tapping her phone. Her daughter, Rosalie, hung over her shoulder. “I’ve donated on your website. When you get that goatmilk soap ready, send me some.”

“Me too, Henny.” Rosalie hugged him. “It’s so good to see you.”

The Webs approached them next and Audrey stepped forward to greet them. “I’ll handle them,” she whispered. “Juan seems to think they’re not good for your mental health.”

Henry leaned into Tomás’s side, ignoring the Webs completely. “I really like Juan.”

“Hmm,” Tomás hugged him. “I’m not sure how to feel about that.”

“You must be Tomás.” Henry’s papa approached, Rinaldo at his side. “Audrey told me about you.”

“Papa.” Henry nodded, voice cold. It would be a while before he forgave his papa for trying to hurt Teague.

Milton’s eyes watered. “Oh, Henry. Don’t look at me like that. I’m sorry. I let my pride control me.”

“If you’re sorry, prove it.” Henry rested his head on Tomás’s shoulder. “Come visit Hobson Hills next month.”

Milton winced. “Isn’t your father supposed to be there with that,” he looked at Teague, “wonderful new husband of his?”

“Yes.” Henry shrugged. “If you’re sorry, come for the visit. You haven’t even met Teague or his dad. You haven’t seen my home either. Plus, it’s going to be my birthday. Did you forget like usual?”

Milton sighed. “I’ll be there, son.”

Several hours later, Henry and Tomás lay in bed, Journey cuddled between them. Henry was exhausted. The emotional rollercoaster of the day was finally taking its toll.

“I can’t wait to get home,” he said, turning to look at Tomás.

Tomás smiled at him. “You were really good today. You know that, right? I could tell everyone was surprised.”

“I’m not usually the family spokesperson.” Henry sighed. “It felt good to talk about the sanctuary. I think if it had been any other subject, I would have choked.”

“I’m proud of you.” Tomás kissed him softly. “I think your papa really is sorry.”

“I hope so.” Henry frowned. “I don’t usually stand up to him, but Teague didn’t deserve to be treated like that.”

“Always protecting everyone around you.” Tomás kissed him again. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” Henry closed his eyes with a smile, feeling sleep pulling at him. “Today was a good day.”

“It really was,” Tomás agreed and pulled him closer. “Surprisingly, it really was.”

Tomás

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