“He workedwithme,” I correct. “And I’ve known him since freshman year of college.”
“A friend or two doesn’t make a pack, darling.”
I sigh, pinching the bridge of my nose. My mother has been running Elite Comfort Services for thirty years. She’s matched thousands of omegas with compatible alphas, both for heat services and long-term relationships. She sees the world exclusively through the lens of her business.
“Mom, I appreciate your concern, but I don’t need you to set me up with anyone. I’m perfectly capable of finding my own dates when I want them.”
“But this omega is perfect for you. She’s intelligent, ambitious, and absolutely gorgeous. Owns her own event planning agency. Very impressive.”
“Not interested.”
“She needs a pack for a wedding she’s attending.”
“A pack?” I laugh. “Now I know you’re desperate. What, did all your professional alphas call in sick this week?”
“Don’t be ridiculous. I just thought you might enjoy the company.”
“So you’re trying to set me up as a heat-breaker? Mom, I’m your son, not one of your employees.”
“The polite term is heat companion, and heat-breaking is only one of many services that we provide here.”
I spot movement in the corner of my eye—thehummingbird has returned. I slowly raise my camera with my free hand.
“Mom, I have to go. There’s a rufous hummingbird that’s finally sitting still.”
“This conversation isn’t over, Matheo.”
“It absolutely is. Love you?—”
“Darling, wait. There’s one more thing.”
I grip the phone tighter, counting silently to three before responding. “What else could there possibly be?”
“Are you still planning to attend the photography exhibition at the Hartman Gallery on Friday? The one where they’re featuring your wildlife series?”
I stare at the fluttering hummingbird, willing it to stay put for just a little longer. “Yes, Mom. It is customary for artists to attend their own shows.”
“I was just checking, Matheo. No need for that tone.”
“It’s not a tone. It’s just—” I pause, watching a shaft of sunlight break through the canopy. The sun will probably set before I can end this call. “Yes, I’ll be there.”
“Good. I’ve told everyone all about it. Make sure you wear something nice. I have a few acquaintances planning to attend. Janine’s daughter—you remember Janine, don’t you? Her omega daughter just finished her master’s in environmental science. She’s very interested in photography.”
Of course. Another setup attempt, barely disguised as maternal support.
“Mom, I appreciate you spreading the word about my exhibition, but please don’t invite potential matches without telling me.”
“I would never.” Her voice rises an octave, the way it always does when she’s feigning innocence. “I simplymentioned that my son’s work would be on display. If certain people happen to attend, that’s hardly my doing.”
A squirrel darts across the path, stopping to examine me with suspicious eyes before scampering up a nearby oak. At least wildlife is predictable in its unpredictability.
“Right.” I run a hand through my hair. “Is there anything else you need?”
“Make sure you get a haircut before the show. When we video called yesterday, I thought you’d lost your phone in the woods and I’d been prank-called by Sasquatch.”
“Mom.” My voice carries a warning edge that even she can’t ignore.
“Fine, fine.” She sighs dramatically. “You know, I run the most successful matchmaking service in the tri-state area. Most alphas would be thrilled for a chance to hear my advice.”
