Page 64 of Bound to the Guard

With the chapter of my torment closed, a new one begins, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me, with my protector by my side.

DAMIEN

Iwait until the Omega Outreach Center closes before I make my way in through the staff entrance. Technically, Alphas aren’t allowed in the Omega exclusive area, but since I’m bonded and a donor, Gael, the center’s manager, gives me some leeway.

Soft piano notes draw me to the music room, where I pause outside, peeking in through the open doorway. Phoenix sits at the bench, his fingers dancing over the keys as he guides a young boy through a simple melody. The boy’s nose scrunches in concentration as he watches Phoenix demonstrate.

“Remember, take it slow,” Phoenix encourages. “Feel the keys under your fingertips.”

The boy tries again, plunking out the notes one by one.

Phoenix places a gentle hand on his shoulder. “You’ve got this. Keep going.”

I lean on the doorframe, my heart swelling at seeing Phoenix in his element, teaching and nurturing kids.

Phoenix’s head lifts, and his cheeks flush as he catches my eye. He gives me a small wave before turning back to his student.

“When I was your age, my papa taught me to play piano,” he shares, his voice soft. “He always said music is magic. It can lift your spirits and heal your heart.”

“Do you think I’ll be as good as you?”

“You will with practice and patience,” Phoenix taps the boy’s chest. “You don’t have to be a prodigy, so long as you play from your heart, expressing your truest feelings. That’s how music becomes powerful.”

Pride swells within me to witness the newfound confidence radiating from Phoenix. Music had become the key to helping him through his trauma and finding peace. And now, teaching these kids, giving them the same outlet, helps to continue healing those wounds.

The melody picks up again, stronger this time as Phoenix and the boy play a duet, their hands moving in tandem.

My beautiful, resilient mate, shining his light, even after everything he endured. I would give him the world if I could. For now, I’ll settle for supporting him however I can, even if it’s just showing up like this to pick him up from his volunteer work. That’s all I want for him. To feel valued, fulfilled, and loved.

He deserves that and so much more.

“Damien, good to see you.” Gael steps up beside me, his voice lowered so as not to disturb the lesson. “Here to pick up Phoenix?”

“Yeah.” I tilt my head toward the room. “Sounds like the lesson is going well.”

“Oh, the children adore him.” Gael tucks his hands into his oversized cardigan. “This music program has been such a wonderful addition. They light up every time he comes in. It’s incredible to watch.”

“It is.” My attention returns to my little mate. “Phoenix has a real gift for connecting with people through music.”

“He does. And we can’t thank your family enough for the generous donation that made it all possible,” Gael says. “It’s made such a difference in these kids’ lives already.”

“Please, don’t mention it.” It should have been done through anonymous channels, but I wanted to ensure the donation went toward funding this new program, and that Phoenix would be offered the volunteer teacher position. It was the least I could do, knowing how much purpose and healing it would bring him.

But I don’t want any recognition for it. “We’re happy to support the center’s work.”

“Of course.” Gael mimes zipping his lips. “He’s lucky to have you in his corner. Not a lot of the Omegas who come here have that kind of support.”

I would move heaven and earth to protect Phoenix and see him thrive. Arranging this volunteer gig was a small gesture in the grand scheme of things. But if it puts that renewed spark in his eyes, that spring in his step, it’s worth everything.

“Have a good evening, Mr. Rockford.” With a wave, Gael heads back toward the front office.

The lesson ends, and Phoenix emerges from the music room. The kid trails behind him, chattering and hugging his waist. My heart squeezes at the sight.

This. This is what I want for him. To be surrounded by joy and purpose, to feel valued and fulfilled. To heal and flourish.

And I will spend the rest of my days making sure he has that, in every way I can. No matter what it takes.

As Phoenix sends the student off to meet his parents at the entrance, Oliver comes from down the hall.

---