Page 69 of Omega's Vengeance

“You’re lying. Come on. Spill it.”

I groan and lean back in my chair. “Since when do you want to talk about shit, Valentino?”

He lifts one shoulder. “Since I fell in love with Nico. He’s shown me sometimes talking stuff out is good.”

“Sometimes it just makes things worse.”

“True.” He sips his beer, looking thoughtful. “We won’t know unless you talk which one this is.”

I find him hugely annoying, but I know he cares about me so it’s impossible to be mad. “You must have heard what Alessio said to Carlo right before we entered his hospital room.”

He frowns. “I’m not sure I know what you mean.”

“Alessio flat out admitted if Carlo hadn’t ruined his plans, you and I would be dead by now. I suspect he’s simply been biding his time. He still wants that to happen.”

Valentino shrugs. “I don’t think he was saying that.”

“Of course he was. He soundeddisappointedabout the fact we’re stillalive.”

“I didn’t take it that way.”

I sputter, “How could you not?

“He was just talking. He was about to be stabbed to death by that psycho Carlo. You can’t take anything he said seriously.”

“Well, you’re not the one who has to marry him,” I grumble, taking a big gulp of beer. I swallow and add, “I’m not sure I want to marry him now.”

Valentino makes an amused sound. “Did he hurt your wittle feelings?”

“Don’t mock me,” I rumble. “How would you like it if Nico said he wanted you dead?”

“Nico said that about a million times when we first got together.” Valentino laughs. “He even said it to my face. He hated my guts when we met. I didn’t let it bother me.”

“I guess you have a thicker skin. Personally, I don’t love the idea that my omega might slit my throat while I sleep.”

“You’re being silly, Dario. He’s obviously crazy about you. He purred like a kitten when you touched him in the SUV.” Valentino sets his beer on the side table. “You should go see him at the hospital. I’m sure he’s wondering where you are.”

“There’s no need to visit him. He’s coming home.”

“Is he?” Valentino arches one dark brow. “When?”

“Now.” I avoid his gaze. “I sent Paul to get him.” Valentino is quiet, so I sneak a peek at him. He’s scowling at me like I’m an idiot. “What?” I ask.

“You sent someone else to pick up your omega after he nearlydied?” Valentino shakes his head, and then a little smile appears. “He’s going to be mad at you.”

“He’s been mad at me since we met.”

Valentino’s amused smile fades. “You’re not getting out of this marriage, Dario. Don’t even try. Everything is settled.”

“How about we unsettle it?”

He scowls. “Why are you fucking things up at the last minute?”

“Excuse me if I don’t want to marry an omega who wants medead.”

Valentino’s patience seems to evaporate. “You’re acting like a child. I’m getting tired of it, Dario. Pull up your big boy pants and go talk to Alessio. You’re just skittish. You’re looking for a reason to bail on this union.”

“I have a reason.”

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