Page 99 of Too Tempting

“The purpose of these sessions is more than just working through problems. It’s about learning how to communicate and how your partners give and receive love. It’s important for solid communication in any relationship, but it becomes even more important in a polyamorous relationship. Pack dynamics are also complex in their own rights, and we are here to support you and help you navigate through these changes. Robin, having already had sessions with Kelsey, has given me a slight rundown of your situation. But I want you all to know that this is a clean slate. I don’t take sides and I’m here for you all as a pack and individually. Where should we start?”

No one speaks, so Kelsey goes ahead and gives the rundown in pure Kelsey fashion. “We’re unbonded. I’ve known Dom my whole life, had a little crush on him for quite some time. He doesn’t know this, but the major wedge between me and my ex was the fact that I desperately wanted him in my pack. While I was working through some personal issues, he met Cameron.” She holds up our joined hands. “Who is also an Omega, so we have some issues with jealousy, but I can’t imagine my life without him? In my original desperation to get knotted, I went to a bar, alone. I know, bad Omega. But anyway, that’s where I met Shyla and Emmett. It was supposed to be a one-night stand, but I mean, look at them. So then it became this tightrope of wanting to join these two established couples together to become one pack. Shyla and Dom both have major big dick energy and didn’t get along at first. We’re still working on that. They don’t fuck. The need to bond is riding Cameron really hard, and he struggles with jealousy. We all want to be happy and we’re all ready and willing to do whatever it takes to work.” Kelsey is nearly out of breath as she finishes her speech. Robin gives her a smile and Morgan’s mouth is wide as she takes the information in.

“All right, well, one thing at a time,” Morgan says.

Kelsey nods her head, attentive as ever. “Let’s discuss our pack Alphas first. I’m a firm believer that Alpha’s moods can set the precedent for the pack and it trickles down from there. Shyla, would you like to start?”

“I don’t dislike Dom,” she says plainly.

“Okay, well, how do you feel about him?”

“He’s a fine Alpha.”

“I need a little more than that. What are some characteristics about Dom that you like?” she asks. I’m all ears. So are Kelsey and Emmett. Dom looks embarrassed, almost.

“He is strong, he’s very patient, and he doesn’t raise his voice or become frustrated easily,” Shyla says.

Morgan is writing something down in her notebook. “Have you had experience with male Alphas over exerting their physicality whether it’s in their tone or physically?”

“Yes,” Shyla says, shrugging off the question.

“Sometimes it’s hard to accept someone when you’ve had trauma in the past. I think you’re making a valiant effort on getting along with him. So you two are not sexually active in this pack?”

“No,” Shyla and Dom say in unison.

“I see, Dom. Do you find Shyla sexually attractive?” Emmett and Kelsey both look at each other wide-eyed.

“No offense, but no. She’s attractive, but I’m not attracted to her in that way.”

“None taken. You’re not my type either.” Shyla and Dom give each other a friendly smile.

“Dom, what are some qualities you can appreciate about Shyla?” Morgan asks.

“She’s pragmatic, to the point. She’s attentive to the pack, and she took care of Cameron in a way I couldn’t.”

Is it getting hot in this room? I feel like everyone’s gaze shifts over to me. “How so?” Morgan asks Dom.

“I didn’t realize how much the need to bond has been bothering him, or how intense his jealousy was eating at him.”

Morgan nods her head and jots some notes down. When she turns her gaze to me, I swallow thickly. “Cameron, can you explain a little more of this jealousy to me, how you’re feeling?”

“I’m on suppressants now, and it’s not so bad. It mostly centers on the possessiveness of Dom and Kelsey. We’ve found that as long as I’m actively involved in something.” I clear my throat. “Romantically or sexually, it doesn’t seem to bother me as much.”

“How would you feel if Kelsey and Dom kissed right now?” Morgan asks.

“Logically, happy. I want this so bad. But deep down, I would feel left out and I would most likely compare myself to Kelsey.”

“It’s good that you can note the difference. Often our brain is firing off way quicker and the first thing that comes up is negative. Your mindset is very important. Training yourself to rerouting your thinking is a powerful tool. I’m thrilled to hear that you can differentiate between the two. We will dive deeper into how you can communicate how you are feeling to your pack. So you can express when you need affection or care.”

“I would like to work on that. On how to tell someone what I need or how I’m feeling. I’ve bottled things up in the past and it’s done nothing but hurt me in the end.”

Morgan nods her head and gives me a kind smile. “Communicating is key. I’ve got a few packets for you all to work on as homework. It’s figuring out your love language and your communication styles and seeing how this will function in a pack setting.”

Emmett clears his throat. “About actually becoming a pack?” he asks Morgan.

“I would suggest holding off. So many packs are quick to jump the gun and wind up here too late. That you are taking these steps now will help you when you do bond. Bonding is a monumental step and it shouldn’t be taken lightly.”

Emmett pouts. “What about living together?” He’s really pulling for any straw he can find.

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