Page 50 of Alpha & Omega

“Now you’re speaking my love language, baby.” He stopped himself, his face pinking again. “Uhm…”

“I like that.”

He smiled broadly again and ran back to work. I had to admit he was quite cute when he was like that.

When dinner was over, I had to head back to Alpha’s. The restaurant was packed now, so when Harley tried to leave the kitchen to see me off, I waved my hand. He approached me at the counter instead.

“I’ve got to go. Thanks so much for dinner. It was fantastic.”

“You’re welcome.”

“When’s a good time to see each other?”

“I’ll make the time, King.”

My insides twisted yet softened at that, reminding me that if I found someone special, I’d find the time, too, except on the weekends. I just couldn’t leave my crew alone to handle the craziness.

“Wednesday?” I asked.

“Wednesday is it.”

“Stop by my place, then.”

“I will.”

“Night, Harl, and thanks again.”

“I’m so glad you came, King.”

“Me, too.”

I dropped a hefty tip for my server, then left to head next door to Alpha’s.

ThelateAugusteveningwas hot, but the breeze helped keep things cool. I wore shorts and a tank top, and Kingston was similarly dressed. We sat on a blanket in the grass, listening to José González strum his guitar and sing melodious notes. I wasn’t as familiar with the singer as Alpha was, and honestly, I was surprised he liked something so mellow. He seemed more like a rocker.

We’d been dating for nearly three months now, minus the week-long breakup, and things couldn’t have been more perfect between us. And the sex between us had been hot. We tried to find a way to touch each other as often as possible. Despite how busy we could be, we always managed to findtime for each other.

I’d brought a picnic basket with us, crammed with fresh fruits, olives, cheeses, toasted bread, crackers, and nuts. Unfortunately, we had to buy alcohol at the venue, which wasn’t nearly as good as what I would’ve brought.

I could’ve gotten us closer to the stage with seats, but I thought Kingston would prefer the chill vibe of sitting on the grassy hill.

He kept his legs spread on the blanket and one hand resting behind him as I sat between his thighs, leaning back onto his chest.

Kingston popped a grape into his mouth, then brought one to mine. I took it between my teeth and bit down on it, a burst of sweetness hitting my tongue.

“Man, this is nice. I haven’t been this chill since… Honestly, I can’t remember when. I’m always fucking stressed lately,” he said. “Thanks for this.”

I craned my head back to look at him, and he leaned forward to kiss me.

“I’m just glad you forgave me.”

“No more of that. We’rewaypast that.”

“I know, but I still cringe now and again.”

He tugged on my man bun. “Shut it. I’m fucking happy to have you in my life, Chef. Despite all the shit happening around me, you keep me grounded with your patience and kindness. I couldn’t have asked for a better boyfriend. We’ll have hiccups again, and we’ll push through them.”

My feelings for Kingston had been strong lately and grew even more so with his words. I was definitely falling for him. I needed to make sure to get it right because I wanted him in my life for good.

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