Getting a Mate in Four Easy Steps

Diego simply nodded before getting lost in his own thoughts. He couldn’t stop smiling, though. He was excited. Granted, nothing was set in stone yet, but he was one step closer to realizing one of his lifelong dreams. If he managed to purchase the building from James and the man’s mates, he would be able to get the other things rolling so he crossed his fingers and hoped for the best.

Percy attempted to calm his nerves as he went through the usual motions of grinning at the cameras, cutting vegetables and meat on the chopping board, stir-frying the various ingredients inside the pan, preparing the cake batter, and several other things he had done over and over again in the past. However, he was anxious that afternoon because he could feel Rohan’s intense gaze on him as he bustled about the makeshift kitchen, taking care of one thing after another. He had no clue why he was so apprehensive. Rohan had watched him cook and bake at home, but for some unfathomable reason, he couldn’t stop his heart from pounding hard and fast against his chest. As a result, he had to stop and repeat some of the processes because the microphone attached to him picked up on the sound of his beating heart. Loudly and clearly.

“Now, we just have to put this into the oven for…”

Percy honestly couldn’t remember how he managed to get through the rest of the recording session, but he did, and when the director eventually wrapped things up, he almost wept in relief because he felt bad about taking up so much time just to finish shooting an episode. He was certain he must have messed up quite badly a few times earlier because even Jacob, who was usually so calm and collected, was starting to get frustrated. He had to take a moment to compose himself before making his way toward Rohan. He noticed Jacob was staring at him intensely as he got closer to Rohan, but he was too embarrassed to face the beta. Instead, he ignored Jacob and walked faster to Rohan.

He was thankful Diego was still busy inside his dressing room, probably negotiating with James. If he had to contend with both Rohan’s and Diego’s attention at the same time, he might not be able to finish his work. He didn’t think it had anything to do with the fact that Rohan and Diego were both gorgeous alphas. He guessed he was so out of sorts in Rohan’s presence because he was attracted to the alpha. He was also very interested in Diego as a potential boyfriend and mate.

“Are you okay?” Rohan inquired the moment Percy reached the alpha’s side. This story is hosted at novelceo(.)com.

“Yeah,” Percy answered. “It must be one of those days when I can’t seem to do anything properly in front of the cameras. That happens to everyone once in a while.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. Now, I have to talk to my editor about my latest cookbook, and that usually lasts a couple of hours. We have to discuss the orders and placements of all the recipes, the photographs, and several other things. You should check if Diego is done. You will be bored to death if you sit next to me.” Get faster updates on no​velceo.com.

“I don’t mind.”

“But—”

“I enjoy being close to you. You make me feel warm, calm, and happy.”

All of Percy’s resistance disappeared in an instant. Rohan was a sweet alpha, and even though he had a gruff exterior, he could be romantic in his words and actions. Percy smiled at Rohan before gesturing for the alpha to follow him. He quickly introduced Rohan to his editor before getting down to business. He also noticed Jacob’s eyes on him once in a while, but he ignored the beta. He would just have to do better next time. Besides, it wasn’t as if he was the first person to mess up a recording session. There must have been hundreds and maybe even thousands of television chefs who had done worse things than he did. The thought made him feel slightly better, and he was able to concentrate on his task.

Initially, everything was fine. He was able to kind of ignore Rohan as he chatted and laughed with his editor. Then he caught Diego’s scent, and he noticed the alpha was seated next to Rohan. He stopped briefly and introduced Diego to his editor before attempting to get back to the discussion. However, he found the combined scents of Rohan and Diego were too distracting. Every few minutes, his editor had to call his name and get him to focus on their conversation. Once again, he had no idea how he managed to get through the two hours with his editor, but he was relieved when it was over.