Page 23 of The Don’s Omega

“When we first met, you said if we signed a contract with each other, you’d tell me why I had to live with you for three years. Even after a child is born.”

“Yes, I did say that.” I shrug. “The reason you have to stay with me for a certain length of time is because I need our marriage to look real to outsiders. I don’t want anyone guessing our union is merely a contract.”

“Why does it matter?” He frowns. “So long as you get your heir.”

“Because in my world, there are some very powerful men who are extremely old-fashioned. They think a leader in my position needs to have an adoring omega and at least one heir to truly lead. They wouldn’t approve of me simply hiring an omega to pop out an heir. They want stability in their leader, and they think having a devoted omega by my side will give me that.”

“But, won’t they be upset if we split up after three years?”

“I don’t think so. By then, I’ll have run the Foschini syndicate for four years. I’ll have proven myself as a great leader because I am a great leader. Plus, I’ll have an heir or two.” I smirk. “Also, hopefully in three years, some of the old coots will have croaked.”

“I see.” He looks troubled.

“What’s wrong?”

“I don’t know much about the… mafia. But I have heard stories of rival syndicates murdering each other. Am I in danger by being your omega?” He sounds breathless. “Will Fabio be in danger if people know he’s connected to you through me?”

“Fabio should be fine. You, however, could be a target for my enemies,” I say bluntly. “But it’s my job to keep you safe. No sane man will come after you or Fabio. If anyone touches what’s mine, they’ll regret it. But they won’t live long enough to apologize.”

A muscle works in his cheek. “Is this why you and Kessler wouldn’t tell me who you were before we signed the contract? You worried I’d back out of the deal.”

“I’m sure you’re having second thoughts right now.”

He shakes his head. “No. I’m not. Fabio’s life is what matters. Realistically, I think your enemies would come after me, not my brother. I… I can live with that.”

His loyalty to his brother touches me. Impresses me. It’s rare to meet anyone as loyal as he is. People can be so depressingly spineless and self-serving. But I believe Elio wouldn’t hesitate to give his life for his brother. I can relate to that because I’d die for the ones I love as well.

“Nobody will touch a hair on your head,” I rumble. “Or they’ll answer to me.”

He holds my gaze for a long moment. “You’d protect me?”

“Absolutely.”

“Why? You barely know me.”

“I’d protect you because you’re mine.”

There’s a curiosity in his eyes that wasn’t there a moment ago. He’s not sure he likes me, but he respects me. And he’s also attracted to me. I can tell from his honied scent and the way his pupils are slightly dilated as we hold each other’s gaze. His breathing has changed, gone shallow and quick, a response he can’t control any more than I can control the way my body leans toward him without my permission.

“I want to kiss you,” I say softly.

His eyes flicker, but he just responds, “Okay.”

“You don’t mind?”

He lifts one shoulder. “Would it stop you if I did?”

“No.” I step into him, feeling his lean body against mine. He doesn’t back up. He stands his ground, allowing our bodies to touch. I like that. I like that he’s not retreating. I study him for a few moments, then I take his mouth in a slow, sensual kiss.

He stiffens at first, fighting his own attraction. But when my tongue presses against his lips, demanding entrance, he submits with a soft gasp. He begins to kiss me back, tentatively, his scent turning even sweeter. I can feel his surprise at his hunger for me. I slide my tongue against his, exploring his warm mouth. He presses closer, a tiny moan escaping him. When I reluctantly pull my mouth from his, we stare at each other, lust buzzing between us.

“Mmmm,” I rumble my approval.

He licks his lips, pupils blown, his breaths fast.

That little sample of him only makes me want more. I could take more. The contract is signed. The ink has dried. Technically, I could fuck him right here in the study. Right now. I could bury my cock in his young body and breed him this minute. Take what he promised me when he signed the paperwork.

But no.