Page 39 of Omega Sanctuary

"You need some sleep."

I laid down on my side. My eyelids were too heavy to hold open, but I didn't want him to leave. I touched his forearm, trying to find the words.

"What is it?"

"Will you..." I paused. His sleeve was soft and rough at the same time. "Stay. With me."

"Alright."

"You don't have to." I couldn't read his voice, but I couldn't muster the energy to open my eyes. "You're nice...soothing."

"I don't mind." The bed shifted, and he laid down next to me.

Laying near him was like being in a cloud. A warm, soothing cloud, where nothing could touch me. I sighed, putting my hand on his chest.

He stroked his hand through my hair, and I listened to his heartbeat, fighting sleep. I didn't want to miss a single moment, not even in sleep.

But sleep claimed me anyway.

Valens was still there in the morning.

I almost thought I'd dreamed the entire thing, but his slow breathing was steady next to me. I rubbed my chin on his chest and sighed.

His chest rumbled like he was laughing.

I lifted my head up. "Sorry. I just slept really well."

"It's fine." He looked sleepy, his blond hair mused. He was adorable. I looked at his mouth. His lips were wide, and full, and I wanted to see what he tasted like.

Warmth poured over me like I was just an empty vessel for desire. He was right here. In bed. We were alone.

Valens patted my shoulder and rolled off the bed.

I tried not to take it personally. Maybe he didn't realize I was ready to climb on top of him. I wasn't good at flirting. I was probably staring and making him think I was horrified he was still in bed with me.

"I'll see about breakfast."

I sat up. "I can come."

He grunted, the agreement grunt, but left the room. Probably trying to let me get dressed.

I sighed. Women probably threw themselves at him all the time.

I got dressed and came downstairs. Hashir and Nova were already at the table, food in front of them,

Nova beamed. "Good morning! How are you feeling?"

"Much better. All that posturing." I shook my head.

"Yes, alphas can be such a bore." Hashir winked at me. His energy laced through the room, warm and diffuse like sunlight.

Valens shot him a dirty look. "Rein it in, Hashir. They know you're an alpha."

"What?" Hashir nudged Nova. "She said it's not bothering her."

Valens gave him a look.

Nova glanced at me and then away quickly. "Well..."

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