It’s that machine. It has to be. There’s no way I’m gay.

Does it matter? I’m an Omega now.

My twin spoke, “We’ve given you the necessary information to prepare yourself. Residual history of the Volardi, hygiene...” his lips curled into a wide smile, “sexual practices.”

He pointed to the vanity. “I suggest you get yourself ready for your man. You wouldn’t want to disappoint.”

My heart quickened. It sounded less like a suggestion and more like an order. I considered my options and then decided now wasn’t the time to fight. Thoughts on how it never seemed the right time lingered in my mind. Either it would never come, or I’d have to take a big risk if I ever wanted my old life back.

I sat down at the vanity. Panels I never noticed before slid back. Various sprays and colored tablets rose from hidden compartments. I’m sure the Volardi could create items that would instantly get me ready. I suspected this was their way to involve me in the process.

Make me more willing I’m sure.

In the mirror, I saw myself staring back yet didn’t. The face was smoother and yet older – around the eyes. Thanks to the information transfer, I knew my youthful appearance was due to my Omega hormones. Yet those eyes were of someone terrified of his first birth.

What guy wouldn’t be?

We’re not supposed to do this.

Without real thought, I reached for the sprays and liquids. Muscle memory took over, and I watched as I both controlled the bottle yet didn’t. It was like I had done these motions a thousand times before. My fingers went over a tanned brown tablet and I ran the goop under my chin. The skin absorbed it instantly. My nose wrinkled at the scent of… what?

My forehead scrunched, and I remembered my trip to the beach.

That’s what it smells like. The ocean. Weird.

I remembered the image of my future husband and the water behind him. Is that why?

A smile went over my face as I thought about pleasing him.

Why, am I thinking that?

James’ earlier conversation replayed. Did I want someone to take care of me? I watched my face twist into a soft, sad frown. No job, and I lived at home as an adult. Somehow, I passed the test even without intention.

I looked at the Omega in the mirror even as the question seemed ridiculous. “Who am I?”

The fake me nodded. “An Omega. I’ll report the good news.”

He left, I stood up and looked back into my reflection. I should have thrown something at the mirror or maybe lifted a chair to toss. Instead, I ran my hand over my stomach. Becky used to tease it was smooth with no muscles. Now, that didn’t seem so bad especially when the alternative was a full belly.

She would love to see me knocked up.

I sighed slowly as memories of old fights replayed in my mind. Becky and I never got along, not really. We were blood, but we weren’t family. Same parents but you wouldn’t know it. I breathed in deep and wondered if this was my punishment for something.