Page 26 of Outback Heat
I scowl as the kangaroo joins another, larger roo and the two bounce off into the distance together. Great, even the wildlife is getting their happily ever after before me.
“What happened last night can’t happen again. I won’t let it. It’s made me realise I have some work to do before I’m worthy of being your mate. The way I let my aura sickness rule my life has me on a fast-track to a grisly end. I have some changes to make.”
“But both of our aura sickness’ will mellow out once we’re mated.”
“Let’s start this right, Matilda. I’ve never taken anything too seriously, other than rodeo, but this is too important. You’re too important,” Murphy says with a wavering voice. “Look, I have a few competitions lined up over the next month I’m contracted to complete. Stay here in Bodella and enjoy the lack of auras. Centre yourself. Find Matilda again.”
I suck in a gust of air. He’s willing to walk away from the Omega he claims is his scent match. It’s something Alphas just don’t do. The moment they find their match, they’re possessive, territorial bastards. Hell, he’d acted like one when he rutted me in public, placing his claim within minutes of meeting me. I shove down the disappointment of his suggestion to leave me and instead allow the relief to take over. No pressure. No stress of an Alpha’s possessive behaviour. Just me, getting back in touch with who I am. He’s giving me a chance to find my footing again.
Murphy caresses the tops of my arms softly, like I’m fragile and he’s worried his touch will cause me to shatter. “I’m not leaving you forever, Matilda,” he promises.
I bite my lip, feeling his emotions through the tingling aura surrounding us. My gaze softens with acceptance, and I nod slowly.
“However, I’ll need some help dealing with the distance. I think I’m going to insist on regular messages and phone calls. The odd sexy pic wouldn’t go astray either,” he adds with a twinkle in his eye.
“That can be arranged,” I say through a giggle, fighting back the tears prickling in the corners of my eyes. I’m a mess – I want to laugh and cry at the same time.
He smiles gently at me before kissing me sweetly. Flames lick at my core as I lean in to chase more of his touch. It’s like an addiction. He tastes like sweat and mischief. Before I can deepen the kiss, he pulls away with a wink and a sly smile on his face like he knows exactly what I was thinking about while he kissed me.
“One month, Spitfire. That’s all you get, then I’m coming for you and wild horses couldn’t keep me away.”
“Bubbles could.”
“Bubbles is an asshole.”
“That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you!”
He kisses the top of my head tenderly and I feel safe in his arms. He pulls away slightly, looking deep into my eyes before murmuring, “One month. Then you’re mine, Omega.”
Thirteen
Matilda
Idon’tstaytowatch Murphy walk away. Even if I’d have an excellent view of his arse, it wouldn’t be worth the heartache. I close the front screen door and return to the kitchen.
Ida’s busy pretending to read the latest edition of Omega Weekly and I collapse into my chair at the breakfast table with an exaggerated groan. I catch her eye and raise my eyebrow at the upside down magazine.
“Don’t pretend you weren’t listening at the door,” I say.
Ida simply slides a key across the small table, and adds, “Stay as long as you need. I’ve been lonely since my Alpha went to care for his mother in the city. He’ll be happy I have some youthful company.”
I don’t have to question whether it’s a genuine offer, the older Omega’s aura is flaring brightly with excitement and affection. In the very short time I’ve been in Bodella, I’ve come to appreciate its charm and Ida is a big part of it. I like the idea of having someone to confide in and, ever the gossip, I bet Ida is thrilled about having a front-row seat to Murphy’s and my relationship.
Before I can respond, my phone chimes.
Murphy: Just checking you gave me the right number, Spitfire.
Matilda: New fone, who dis?
Murphy: You’re a real larakin.
Matilda: I think I’m funny. So does Ida.
Murphy: Ida thinks the sun shines out of your ass.
Matilda: Already talking about my ass, Alpha?
Murphy: I’ve never pretended to be a good boy.
