Valentin thought of the way his eyes had been drawn to the couple on the dance floor. “It was.”
“That makes me feel better.”
“I’m glad,” Valentin replied, meaning it. “Zinn is my past, and Assa and Wes are my present. But the love has been there both times. Different, but equal.”
“I’d really like to believe Kino and I have that.”
“Not to burst your romantic bubble, but if you and Kino ever decide to end your relationship, I think it’s less likely you’ll break up over him being an alpha and more likely that you guys simply go in different directions because you’re still teenagers. People rarely stay with their high school sweethearts.”
Jordie smirked. “You were giving a great pep talk. Right until that turn at the end.”
Valentin grinned. “You’re almost an adult, so I’m treating you like one. And the core fact remains. Alphas and betas can have true love. Full stop. I hope you never hold yourself back from loving with your whole heart because of someone’s gender. And you can talk to me about it whenever you want. Or any of us. I’m sure Wes or Assa would have a different perspective on being a beta who loves an alpha.”
Jordie nudged his shoulder. “Thanks, Valentin.”
“Anytime, kiddo. I mean that.”
Jordie stood and turned to go back into the house, startled by the sight of Calder near the barely open front door.
“How much did you hear?” Jordie mumbled.
“Just you thanking Valentin. What were you talking about?”
“School.” The relief was clear in Jordie’s tone as he slipped past his father.
Calder sat down in the spot Jordie had just vacated. He and Valentin toed the wooden porch boards, rocking the swing gently.
“How much did you actually hear?” Valentin asked quietly.
“Most of it. But since you had things well in hand, I didn’t want to interrupt.”
“I hope I didn’t overstep?”
“Not even a little. I think my son was clear that he had a question only you could answer. I appreciate the assist.”
“Thank you.” Valentin barked a laugh.
“What?”
“It was just so awkward.” He rubbed his hands on his thighs. “It made me think about having to go over it with Ryde when the time comes.”
“Luckily, you’ll have lots of help.”
“Funny enough, I had that exact thought.”
“You’ll be great with Ryde. You were awesome with Jordie just now.”
“Thanks.”
Valentin stared at the bugs buzzing around the porch light. They rocked in silence for a minute before Calder spoke again.
“I particularly liked what you said about Zinn and Assa and Wes all having your love.”
“It’s true,” Valentin said, grateful that Calder never made him feel like he couldn’t acknowledge his history with Zinn, nor the love he still had for him.
“But what about your future?”
“Hmm?”