Page 78 of Omega Sanctuary

I couldn't blame them for closing ranks. We'd passed too many regiments of soldiers on the road for me to think there wasn't something wrong.

"Cape Carnirn should have better answers," Hashir said. "A larger temple, and I know some of the merchants and captains there."

The glass lit up, and Zara's face came into view.

My heart leapt, and I smiled.

Her face was drawn, and there were bags under her eyes.

"What's wrong, sweetheart?"

Zara shook her head. Her cinnamon-colored hair fell around her face. "Training is taking a lot out of me."

"Of course. I don't want to bother you—"

"You aren't," she said quickly. "I miss you."

My smile was back. This woman pulled more smiles out of me than my entire life had, like I was saving them just for her. "I miss you too.

"I hope you're having better luck than I am," Zara said with a huff.

I must have made a face, because she laughed. "No? Okay then."

I gave a half shrug. "It's going to take time. The Temple Omegas don't know much."

Zara sighed. "I know you'll figure it out."

"How's the search for our alpha going?" I put emphasis on "our." She didn't need to doubt for one second whether I would be upset.

Zara's eyes welled up with tears. I jerked, ready to get on my horse and ride down to the Sanctuary right now. "What happened?"

She shook her head. "It's stupid. You're wet and cold and I've been dancing at stupid parties."

"And training with difficult to understand magic," I said softly. "And dealing with the changes your body is going through. I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy."

Zara bit her lip. "I'm not scenting like an omega."

I frowned. "Yes? It was a blessing on the road."

Hashir poked his head over my shoulder so he could see Zara. "So those wankers aren't giving you the time of day? Screw the lot of them."

Zara laughed.

"They should still..." I trailed off. I knew nothing about fancy galas aimed at pairing omegas and alphas together.

Hashir was already shaking his head. "No, Valens. They're treating her like the help and trying to woo Nova."

Zara nodded. "Exactly. Nova isn't having any more fun. Most of them are pushy."

Hashir grit his teeth, and it was his turn to look like he was about to saddle his horse and take off.

Zara smiled at me, and it went straight to my heart. "I'm okay. I miss you, but I'm glad you're looking for them."

I reached out to the glass, wanting to touch her so badly. "Don't let them upset you. You will find someone who calls to your energy, and you to theirs."

"Okay." Zara still looked tired, but she had the same determined set to her mouth as when she was getting ready to tell me what to do.

I loved her for it. I kissed my fingertips and pressed them to the glass. Zara mirrored my movements.

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