The Next Day

THE NEXT DAY

Scarlett

I've only been to this part of the hospital a few times over the years. I had expected the doctor's offices to be a little over the top, but it's pretty simple overall. Beige walls are covered in colorful art depicting everything from landscapes to abstract swipes of paint. There are a few sitting areas in the larger corridors that hold a few simple leather chairs. Nothing too fancy.

"How may I help you?" Bennet's assistant smiles up at me. There's a small desktop Christmas tree next to his phone. The plastic bobbles sway slightly as he finishes typing something.

"I don't have an appointment," I say apologetically, smoothing my hands over my hips. It's ridiculous, but I wore my best scrubs today. They're navy blue like all my others, but they're a bit snugger around the middle. "My name is Beta Marin. I'm one of the heat-techs. I was just hoping to have a quick word with Dr. Enoch."

The young assistant smiles up at me, but it's a bit tight. He's clearly annoyed. "Let me check with the doctor." He stands then disappears into the office door just behind him.

I hold my breath, listening hard. I'm so thankful it's so quiet in here.

"Dr. Enoch, there's someone from the Nesting Ward here to see you."

I can hear the alpha groan, and his chair move.

"If it's an emergency they can page me, otherwise I don't have time," Bennet says firmly. Disappointment washes over me, but I understand. He is a very important man.

"I'll let Beta Marin know," his assistant says with a polite lift in his voice.

"Marin?" Bennet's whole tone changes and his chair moves again.

"Yes, sir." The assistant's voice is odd. Maybe shocked. Is he happy to see me? "Beta Marin?" The assistant opens the door, holding it open to one side. "Dr. Enoch will see you now."

My hands fly to my hair and I quickly smooth out my ponytail. I wish I could have worn it down, or curled, or something fancy. But that wouldn't be appropriate for work.

"Scarlett." Bennet stands on the other side of his desk. He's wearing a snug pale blue dress shirt and a black tie. I don't know if I've ever seen him without his lab coat on, but without it, I can see just how big his arms are. He looks like he could rip a tree out of the ground with his bare hands. "What can I help you with?" He smiles at me and that damn dimple pops into place.

"I'm so sorry to bug you." I scan the spacious office, taking in the dark blue couch and matching armchair. Even the painting on the wall matches—it's a lovely piece that shows the ocean waves crashing on gray and black rocks. It's weirdly calming.

"Please, come in." Bennet comes around his desk. For a moment I think he's going to hug me or touch me in some way, but he only leans against his desk. I can't say I'm not disappointed. "You're a very welcome distraction," Bennet says, his dark eyes sparkling.

"I was just wondering about the party tonight." I smooth my hands over my hips, and his eyes follow the motion.

"Yeah?" he says, slipping his tongue over his bottom lip. Is it warm in here?

"Yes," I clear my throat, trying not to fidget. I just feel so… flustered ? Turned on? Hell, I don't even know anymore. "I was wondering if it will just be the two of us, or if the rest of your pack will be joining us?"

Bennet's whole body goes tight, but he quickly smiles, trying to hide his reaction. "It's just me tonight."

I nod, but he's just so damn tense. Does his pack already have a beta? Would they be against him seeing me? I hope I'm not fucking this up…

"Okay," I say, trying not to sound disappointed. "I get off work at five, but I was going to head home and change. Do we want to meet here at seven?"

Realization makes Bennet's eyes go wide. "I actually hadn't thought about the specifics. I probably should have thought of that yesterday when I asked you out." He lets out a deep chuckle. He sounds almost nervous. I kind of like it. I've never dated an alpha before, and having this kind of effect on one is a bit of a power trip.

"That's okay," I tuck my hands behind my back, and Bennet's eyes move to my chest. He eyes my breasts, taking in my curves. "I guess I'll let you get back to work." My voice comes out a rough whisper—much throatier than I intended. And the effect it has on Bennet is almost instant.

"No." His hand flies out, grabbing me by the wrist. "Don't go yet."

I nod as the enormous alpha closes the space between us. He's so damn tall, looming over me like I'm a tiny wounded animal. I feel almost fragile under his intense gaze. I can see why omegas crave this.

"Bennet?" I whisper as he slowly leans down. His dark eyes are on my mouth, his lips slightly parted. His rich alpha scent envelopes me and my heart quickens.

"Yes, Scarlett?" he purrs my name and my eyes float closed.

Then he kisses me.