One

Chapter 13

Sadness. Frustration. Compassion. Seething fury. Brandon was kicked back and forth between a mixture of emotions as he stayed close enough to intervene, observing Sean's every move.

Witnessing the smallest detail of expression, analyzing it properly so that, were the young Omega to be overwhelmed or frightened by the nearby Alphas and Betas, Brandon could step in.

Even now, there was a soft smile on the Alpha's lips as Brandon watched Sean be accepted by the rest of the pack. Word spread quickly and while the other humans, Deltas and few Omegas were spreading Sean's scent around, the shy Omega was still hesitant to make contact with the Betas and Alphas.

With Brandon and Gabriel being the only exceptions, none beside the Pack Alpha has successfully managed to come anywhere near Sean. At least not without inducing a deep seeded panic within the poor man.

Nostrils flaring, Brandon sighed with relief as he didn't detect a hint of that unique pheromone in the air. A pheromone that Omegas would only release when they were heavily distressed.

Yes, Sean was still trembling slightly and definitely avoiding eye contact with the Alphas and Betas.

But Brandon had a feeling that the mingling humans, Deltas and Omegas were proving time and time again to Sean that these Alphas and Betas were no threat. Even if it was unintendedly so.

With each interaction where a Delta laughed along with a Beta, an Omega swatting at the arm wrapped around her stomach from her Alpha friend, Brandon could see the surprise, disbelief and astonishment mount in Sean's gaze.

Especially so when the humans, even weaker than Omegas, darted through the crowd, roughhousing with the rest of the pack.

Where everyone was accepted, respected by the others. No matter their supposed ranking.

Brandon could tell the other Alphas were making a conscious effort to give Sean breathing room. To not approach the Omega until he approached them.

Hell, several of the Alphas had left to continue their chores, after inhaling Sean's scent and giving the shy, fearful Omega a gentle smile and a nod from across the field.

And with each Alpha that respected his boundaries, willingly leaving the same area where a new, unmated Omega stood, the confusion in Sean amplified.

Jasmine scent turning softer, blander as his head tilted the slightest bit. Watching the Alphas walk away without so much as a backwards glance.

It's as if he's anticipating the Alphas to drag him from the field, no matter his objections.

His wolf sneered at that, snapping with its teeth to shut down that thought. No real alpha would do such a thing. Immature pups, imposters would reach out and grab what wasn't theirs to touch in the first place.

Real Alphas respected the pack and would never force their desires, their needs onto another. They would be patient, wait and only approach if there was consent and shared mutual interest.

Which was why Brandon's Beast was already gloating, puffing out its chest and preening like a proud peacock. Because Sean willingly came to them.

Of course, Brandon's explanation that they were one of two Alphas present that Sean knew, went in one ear and out the other for the Beast. For his wolf, Sean trusted them, pure and simple.

He sighed before smiling gently when Sean caught his eye. Smile widening as Sean hesitated only a moment before shuffling closer to him, scent sweetening with a hint of curiosity.

"...a question?" Brandon managed to catch the soft murmur, making him lean closer to be able to fully catch Sean's soft voice.

"Hmm?"