Page 100 of Juliet & Her Romeos

Ambrose sighs. “I see that Vito is rubbing off on you.”

Huh, Vito did call Ambrosesir.

“Amby,” I test out the name, and Ambrose gives a pleased smile, “when are you handing out these presents to Vito and Bec? Is your tradition to do it after lunch?”

Ambrose’s expression softens. “Check the labels.”

Confused, I reach for the closest one, turning over the label:

Dear Juliet, my sun,

Happy Christmas!

Love the Romeos

“It’s for me,” I squeal.

Then blush, as Ambrose’s lips twitch.

“Try the next one.” He sits back on his heels.

Somehow, even like this he manages to tower over me.

Eagerly, I drag a round gift that’s wrapped in glittering ribbon toward myself, giving it a sneaky shake.

It rattles.

Hmm, not chocolate then.

Ambrose quirks his brow.

“I’m not cheating.” I flip the label over.

Dear Swan,

Happy Christmas!

Love the Romeos

I place the present back gently on the top, before I launch myself into Ambrose’s arms. He lets out a surprisedoomph, before he raises his arms to cradle me.

This close, I can smell the scent that I’ve missed for four years.

Wrapped myself in every night in the football jersey.

Craved.

Spicy Cognac with the undertone of toasted almonds.

Fuck, I love this scent.

Without meaning to, I bury my nose in Ambrose’s tanned neck and sniff deeply.

He lowers his head to my hair and takes just as deep a breath. “You’re the most delicious smelling Omega in the world. I’d never forget your scent. It’s haunted me.”

Ambrose’s voice is steady, but his heart is beating fast.

I can feel his pulse as I rest my lips gently against his throat.