were different now. Riley had plenty of experience under his belt, a stable living situation since Mrs. O’Brien wasn’t liable to throw him out, and if he wanted to move on and find another job next week, he had the means and savings to do so. Riley was now as close to a free agent as he could be while still working for Brendan.
“Things have already changed, Riley. For the better. We’re not the same two people we were that weekend. Back then, there was a power imbalance. That’s why it seemed best to let it go. We’re more equal now, you and I.”
Riley eased over onto his back again, meeting Brendan’s gaze.
“You were worried I’d feel obligated.”
“Exactly.”
“If it helps, I didn’t. I wanted you that night. Almost as badly as I want you right now. I wasn’t thinking about anything but how it would feel to have you.”
Brendan’s concern softened into a smile. “Well, that’s good to know. And I meant what I said. I don’t regret it. It was a memorable night, and I’m looking forward to sharing another memorable night with you. If that’s what you want.”
Riley grabbed the front of his shirt and tugged him down, capturing his lips in a kiss.
“I want it,” he promised. “Believe me, I do.”
Brendan cupped Riley’s cheek, stealing another kiss from his soft lips. He nudged until Riley parted them, chasing the omega’s tongue with his own. Riley tasted heavenly, and he moaned as the omega’s heat scent blossomed around them.
He was panting as they broke apart. “Maybe we should take the edge off now, before the party? Otherwise, I’m going to spend the whole of it unable to take my eyes off you, and just waiting for the second I can drag you back to bed.”
Riley let out an appreciative moan as Brendan dragged one hand down his chest.
“Yes, that’s… that’s a great idea. I wholeheartedly approve.”
They grappled with their clothes, shedding T-shirts and tugging at buttons and zippers. Brendan managed to get his pants off, his boxers halfway down his thighs, when Riley arched up against him, brushing their cocks together. He was hard within seconds, his body tense with need.
His mouth found Riley’s again, forgetting about his clothes as he kissed the omega breathless and thrust against him. The movement of his hips had Riley squirming and moaning, torn between pulling him closer and pushing him away. They rutted against one another, the heat delicious as their bodies clung together. Riley was right on the edge, his toes curled, his lips flushed. Brendan grabbed his hips, holding him firmly as he thrust their cocks together, giving Riley no relief from the friction. The omega’s back arched, and he came with a cry, pressing up against him. That simple action was enough to push all the right buttons. Brendan came hard, his face tucked against Riley’s neck, his hips thrusting lazily through his release. They were both sticky, sweaty, and breathing hard as they lay there, half-dressed and dazed.
“That… that was…” Riley lost his train of thought and smiled dreamily at him.
“Yeah,” Brendan agreed, similarly tongue-tied. “We’ll just… rest here for a bit.”
He tugged the omega against him, not caring how messy they were. Nothing a little soap and water wouldn’t take care of. Riley pressed a cheek to his chest, his eyes falling closed. Brendan stroked his hand through the omega’s hair, easing him into a light doze. They’d get through this just fine, and nothing would change.
Chapter Twenty-Four
Riley spent most of the party trying to keep cool. The task was made easier since it was a barbecue and happening outside. Angie and Grams helped by finding him a seat away from the heat of the grill and keeping plenty of cold drinks on hand. If anyone else noticed his predicament, they were keeping quiet about it, for which he was eternally grateful. The party went well, everyone having a good time, and Riley enjoyed watching Brendan have fun. Every time their eyes met, the passion in the alpha’s gaze sent a thrill of heat through him. A few times, he resorted to fanning himself with a paper plate or pressing a cold soda can to his forehead and cheeks.
It was late afternoon and the festivities hadn’t shown any sign of winding down, but Riley was reaching the end of his tether. He stood up, and Brendan was at his elbow instantly.
“Want to head back to the cottage for a rest?”
He nodded gratefully, letting the alpha lead