Page 22 of Lavender and Honey

"And maybe," Elias added, his honey-warm scent wrapping around me, "we could grab a coffee or an early dinner afterwards? To celebrate this new partnership?"

I felt a blush creep up my cheeks at the invitation. "That... that would be nice.” I tried to ignore the flutter in my stomach from his words.

Elias's face lit up at my acceptance. "Wonderful! We can decide on a place after we set up the display."

I nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling up inside me. This was a big step— not just for my business, but for me personally. Opening up my carefully curated space, my sanctuary, to new elements and new people.

"Thank you both," I said softly, looking between Elias and Finn. "For the opportunity and for being so understanding. This is... it's a big step for me."

Finn's green eyes softened with understanding. "We know, Lydia. And we appreciate you trusting us with this. We promise to respect your space and your boundaries."

Elias nodded in agreement, his honey-warm scent wrapping around me like a comforting blanket. "Absolutely. This is your store, your vision. We're just honored to be a small part of it."

I felt a warmth bloom in my chest at their words, touched by their sensitivity and understanding. It was so different from what I was used to— this gentle support, this respect for my boundaries and my space.

"Thank you," I murmured, offering them both a small but genuine smile. "I'm looking forward to it."

As I prepared to leave, my arms laden with bread and preserves, Elias reached out, gently touching my arm. "Lydia," he said softly, his honey-warm eyes meeting mine, "I just wantedto say... I'm really proud of you for taking this step. I know it's not easy to open yourself up to new situations.”

I felt a warmth bloom in my chest at Elias's words, touched by his understanding and support. "Thank you," I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper. "It's... it's not easy. But I think it's time."

Finn nodded, his green eyes warm with approval. "Change can be scary," he said, his deep voice gentle, "but it can also lead to beautiful things. We're honored to be part of this new chapter for you and your store."

I felt a lump form in my throat, overwhelmed by their kindness and support. It had been so long since I'd allowed myself to be vulnerable, to let anyone see the real me. And yet, here were these two men, virtual strangers just a week ago, offering me nothing but understanding and encouragement.

I ducked my head, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks at their kind words. It had been so long since anyone other than Avery had shown such genuine care for my well being, such understanding of my struggles.

"Well," I said softly, gathering my purchases, "I should probably get going. But I'll see you both on Tuesday?"

Elias nodded and I gave the two another smile, “Then have a good rest of your day.” I then left as quickly as I could. I was happy and wanted to leave before I said something I didn’t want to in gratitude… but I did know that Tuesday couldn't get here fast enough.

Chapter Fourteen

Elias POV

Dinner was already laid out on the table, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead light as Finn and I stepped in. Lucian and Soren lounged in their familiar spots, the room filled with the mouthwatering aroma of roasted vegetables, sizzling grilled steak, and freshly baked, warm bread that beckoned with a sense of comforting home. I set my bag down gently, feeling the reassuring embrace of familiarity settle over me.

“Long day?” Lucian inquired with a raised eyebrow as he gracefully poured himself a generous glass of deep red wine, its color echoing the laid back, adult mood of the evening.

“You could say that,” I replied with a light chuckle, my voice mingling with the ambient clinks and murmurs. Finn droppedinto a chair with a dramatic groan, the weight of the day evident in his posture.

“Market was insane today,” Finn muttered, stretching his arms as if trying to shake off the fatigue. “But we ran into Lydia again.”

Soren’s eyes sparkled with intrigue and curiosity. “The Omega shop owner?”

I nodded, easing into my chair as comfortable thoughts began to replace the weariness. “Yeah, her. Every time we see her, she seems to open up just a little bit more. Finn and I are going to help set up a captivating display at her store next weekend to showcase our goods. She’s collaborating with us to feature our wares in her little haven.”

Lucian’s lips curved into a teasing smirk as he leaned back. “Since when do you volunteer for retail partnerships?”

I shrugged, feeling a blush creep up my neck under the warm, soft lighting of the room. “She’s... interesting. I really want to know more about her. But there's a cautious air about her, as though she's meticulously guarding pieces of herself. She even uses scent blockers. I don’t want to overwhelm her, scare her off before she lets her guard down.”

Finn leaned back further, his demeanor thoughtful and soft. “She’s definitely guarded. I noticed that too. But there’s something about her — an enigmatic quality that makes you want to break through that shell, you know?”

Soren tilted his head slightly, his expression filled with inquisitiveness. “She hides that she’s an Omega?”

I nodded slowly. “Yeah. I don’t know her whole story yet, but it’s clear she’s been through a lot. I respect that. We all have our reasons for the walls we build.”

Lucian, ever the observant soul, smiled faintly and remarked, “You’re being unusually careful with her. That’s... a welcome change.”

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