by Beau Brown
“I’m 99.9% sure the baby is mine.”
“Ouch.”
He smiled. “I’m kidding.”
“Okay, good.” I crossed my legs, hoping I looked more relaxed that way. Of course, the sweat on my upper lip probably gave me away. How exactly did one go about asking an alpha to claim them? It was so awkward. I was beginning to wish I’d just taken him up on his offer weeks ago, that would have saved me this nerve-wracking experience.
He leaned toward me, his green eyes luminous. “Why don’t you just say what you need to say, Fox?”
“Yeah. Okay.” I laughed gruffly.
“Go on.”
“Well… I was wondering…”
He frowned. “Yes?”
“I uh… you know… I was wondering if… if you still wanted…” I hesitated. “It would be easier if I wasn’t single, and I was thinking that maybe… you know…” My voice trailed off, leaving a thick silence in the room.
“You don’t want to be single?” He narrowed his eyes.
“I was thinking it might… you know… be simpler if I had…”
He cocked his head, and his nostrils flared. “Are you saying you want me to… be your alpha?”
I could smell his immediate arousal, and that got my pulse pumping. “I know I said no before… but it might be better for the baby if we were… I guess… officially together.”
“How very old fashioned of you, only thinking of the baby’s reputation.” He sounded amused.
“It’s not just for the baby,” I said weakly.
“Good. Because I don’t want to claim you if you’re only doing it for the sake of the baby.” He licked his lips, running his gaze over my throat. “I want to claim you. Bad. But only if you want it. Want me.”
“You know I do,” I whispered, feeling a tingle of nervousness at how intensely he watched me. The claiming was supposedly earth shakingly erotic, but also painful for the omega. All I could think about was his teeth clamped on my skin, and his cock inside my body, and I knew from his expression, he was thinking about that too. He wasn’t even touching me, but I was turned on just holding his vivid gaze.
“I don’t know that, unless you say it.” His voice was husky.
“Well… obviously I must.”
“Say it,” he whispered.
My body tingled at the look in his eyes. “Why do I have to say it?”
“Because I need to hear it.”
My face was hot. “This is so embarrassing.”
“Say it.” His voice was flat, and he began to unbutton his shirt. “Say it, and I’ll give you what you want.”
I licked my lips. “I… I want you to claim me.”
He smiled slowly, and tossed his shirt on the floor. “Take off your pants.”
My heart started pounding, and a spark of alarm went through me. “Are we going to do it now?”
“No time like the present.” He lifted one shoulder. “I don’t want to give you a chance to change your mind.”
“I won’t.”
“Still… I need to mark you now,” he said thickly.
“Oh.” My nerves twittered as his eyes ran over my body. “Will it hurt?”
“Yes.” He lowered his head, his eyes a strange light green. “But it will also be pleasurable.”
I nodded, trying not to hyperventilate.
“Take off your pants, Fox.”
I was scared, but my cock was rock hard. With trembling fingers, I unzipped my jeans, and slipped them and my underwear off. My nipples beaded against my shirt painfully, as some strange instinct began to take me over. I suspected from the carnal look on his face, he too was under the power of his wolf.
“On the couch, face down,” he said quietly.
I didn’t like the idea of that, it felt impersonal, but I wasn’t about to argue, not when he looked like a hungry animal. Maybe the idea of tasting my blood had him worked up, because he looked a little terrifying. Did this mean anything to him, or was he just following his lust? Why did he want me face down? So he could pretend I was someone else?
He must have read something in my expression because he paused. “The bite will be less painful on the back of your neck.”
Relief washed through me. “Oh.” He wasn’t being selfish. He was actually trying to make this easier on me. Gratitude that he’d bothered to explain made my heart full. I moved to lie prone on the leather couch, the material cool against the heated flesh of my dick.
He didn’t wait long before coming to me. Within seconds he was on me, nudging my knees apart, and rubbing his smooth hands down my spine and thighs. “So fucking beautiful,” he whispered. “Are you sure you want this? There’s no going back once I taste your blood, and fill you with my seed.”
I shivered, apprehension striking through me, even as lust clawed at me. I didn’t really have any choice now, I needed him to claim me desperately. It was as if my body craved him, and I began to tremble with anticipation. “Claim me, alpha. Please,” I hissed, instinctively lifting my ass to tempt him even more.
He growled and parted my ass cheeks, then he spat on my exposed hole. I dug my fingers into the leather of the couch, scared but almost in a frenzy of lust. He didn’t prep me. He didn’t take his time. He just covered my body and the wide head of his cock bumped my entrance. We weren’t making love. We were following our instincts, and bonding on a level only true mates were allowed. My heart pounded loudly, and my breaths came in gulping puffs as I waited for his next move.
He pressed his teeth to the back of my neck, and his breath was like fire on my skin. “Mine,” he hissed, and then he clamped his teeth down, and thrust his bare cock into my body.
Brilliant colors burst behind my eyelids, and I cried out as a pleasure I’d never experienced ravaged me. My cock jerked and hot wet release flooded the leather beneath me. A sob broke from my throat as Liam pulled out and pumped back into me. His thrusts burned and my neck throbbed as he took what was rightfully his. I could smell blood, and something warm and sticky pooled under my chin. I’d never heard of anyone bleeding to death during the claiming, but as out of control as we seemed, I could imagine it happening.
His cock was big and hard as it went deeper and deeper, but now I couldn’t get enough. My body shook with need, and I felt like something inside of me was opening for his seed. The quaking sensations inside of me were painfully delicious, and I felt like a flower about to be pollinated. “Oh, fuck,” I whimpered, my skin feverish and overly sensitive.
“Fox,” he groaned.
“Don’t stop,” I moaned, shuddering with pleasure. It felt so good I almost couldn’t breathe. Our sweat soaked bodies slid in perfect union, him thrusting hard, me receiving each push greedily. I stretched my body like a cat in heat, clutching my muscles on his dick, and rolling my hips in a lusty frenzy. I wasn’t in control of my body any longer, this was primal and wild. The pain of his thrusts was real, and I needed it to end, even as I craved more and never wanted it to stop.
He kissed the bite mark, his hands digging into my hips, and holding me down so he could continue fucking me. My hole was raw from the pounding, but even that felt good because he was my alpha now. My cock was full again, aching for release once more. I wanted to touch myself, but I couldn’t seem to manage it. My muscles were like noodles, and all I could do was moan and take it.
Liam gave two more hard thrusts, and then he froze, as if all of his muscles seized. He snarled, and his body shook as his cock exploded inside me. The hot rush of his seed seared my insides, and my dick spilled another load onto the couch, as I climaxed for the second time. I clawed the leather, as he filled my hole with his cum. The pressure was intense, but finally his cock stopped pumping, and he collapsed on top of me breathing hard.
“It is done,” he hissed. “You’re mine now.”
I couldn’t form words. I was too drained. As I gulped for air, every muscle in my body ached and trembled from what I’d just gone through. The ribs I’d previously bruised when the tru
ck hit me, throbbed. I now understood why no one could explain what the claiming was like. How did you describe something so earthshaking with mere words? I felt like I’d been tossed around inside a tornado, battered and beaten, and turned inside and out.
Liam rolled off of me, sliding onto the carpet with a thud. When I managed to open one eye to check on him, his hair was sweaty and his cheeks red from exertion. My neck hurt like a son of a bitch, and I couldn’t imagine how much worse it would have been if he’d bitten the front of my throat. I flopped one hand onto his back and he grunted, but didn’t move. Standing wasn’t humanly possible. I’d used every ounce of energy in my body, and Liam seemed even more exhausted, since he’d done all the work.
I had no idea how long it was before Liam stirred, and managed to get to his knees. His auburn hair stuck up in all directions, and he looked disoriented. He moved to me quickly, concern written all over his face. “God, Fox. I’m so sorry. I was so rough. Are you okay?”
I managed to lift my head. “Yes.”
He blew out a long, shaky breath. “That was… intense.”
“My neck hurts. Everything hurts.”
He stroked my hair. “I know what you need.”
I heard him get to his feet, and then also heard the sound of running water in my master bath. He returned to me, and he took my arm gently.
“Come with me,” he whispered.
I wasn’t sure I could oblige; my muscles were still so weak. Luckily, he helped me, and we staggered into the bathroom. The tub was full, and the scent of lilac and lavender filled the room. He helped me into the tub, and I groaned as the warm water enveloped me. Resting my head against the tub, I sighed as he began to wash my body. His touch was delicate, and he kissed my temple, murmuring softly about how he’d watch over me now. I’d already fallen for him, but after the claiming, my need for him was like a fever. The sound of his voice made my nerves tingle, and I watched him adoringly as he massaged my feet.
“I wanted to be gentle, but I just couldn’t control myself.” A line appeared between his brows, and he sounded ashamed.
I touched his arm, my heart aching with emotion. “I’m fine. I couldn’t control myself either.”
He sighed. “I never want to hurt you.”
“I know.” I smiled. “But it was worth it.”
“Yeah?” His eyes lit. “Do you really feel that?”
“Yes.”
He gave a soft laugh. “I can’t believe you’re the same feisty nurse who I thought I couldn’t stand.”
“You called me a pipsqueak.” I grinned.
“I did?” He winced.
“Yep. If anyone had told me we’d end up here, I’d have said they were insane.”
“And yet…” He kissed the tip of my nose. “Here we are.”
I grinned. “Yep.”
He stroked his hand down my chest, and rested his palm on my abdomen. “Our baby is in there.”
I nodded. “I hope I’m a good dad.”
“You will be.” He cleared his throat. “I won’t let this baby interfere with your career, Fox. I swear. We’ll find the best childcare possible in Sweet Water.”
I laughed. “If you think my mom is going to allow a stranger to watch our baby, you’re wrong. She’d kill us.”
“Oh.” He frowned. “Yes. Of course. I keep forgetting how loving and supportive your family is.”
I studied his face. “Is that okay they want to be involved?”
“Are you kidding? It’s the best thing in the world, Fox.”
“You didn’t seem so big on family when we first met.”
He patted my belly. “Well, I am now.”
“It sometimes worries me that we haven’t known each other long.” I sighed.
A small smile lifted his lips. “I know you. I feel like I’ve always known you.”
I laughed because I understood what he meant. From the first moment we’d met, we’d been drawn to each other. Almost as if we couldn’t stay away, even if we wanted to. “Do you think we’re fated mates?”
“Yes.” He didn’t even hesitate.
I held his clear gaze, and my heart squeezed with affection. I’d never felt the emotions I did just by looking at him. The sound of his voice was like velvet, and his touch mesmerizing. I couldn’t picture life without him now, and I didn’t even want to.
“Yeah, I believe it too,” I said softly.
Chapter Thirteen
(Six Months into the Pregnancy)
Liam
“We should swim more often. You need the exercise for you and the baby.” I sipped my iced tea, not missing the frown that appeared on Fox’s face.
“Are you saying I’m fat?” He patted his rounded stomach.
“What?” I frowned. “How did you get that from what I said?”
“You’re saying I need more exercise.”
“For your health and the baby’s health. Not because you’re fat.” I leaned toward him. “I’ve told you a hundred times I think you’re gorgeous.”
“I’m far from gorgeous.”
“You are to me.” I smiled patiently.
“Look at my ankles. Actually, scratch that. I don’t even have ankles anymore.” He scowled. “I’m retaining liquid like a water balloon.”
“I keep telling you to stop eating that cheese popcorn, but you won’t listen.”
His mouth drooped. “But it’s so good.”
“It has a ton of sodium.”
He laughed. “I know. But it’s so fucking goooood.”
I chuckled. “Well, your blood work and pressure are excellent, so I won’t nag you. But if you want to get rid of the bloat, that might help.”
He tilted his head. “I’m sorry… did you say bloat?”
“I just mean—”
“You’re saying I’m bloated? What, like a whale or something?”
Shit.
“You know I don’t mean it that way.”
He ignored me. “Or maybe you mean I’m bloated like a corpse?”
“Fox, stop it.” I frowned.
“I don’t know how I could be so bloated. I pee every five seconds.” He sat up and put his feet on the ground. “I’m surprised this lounge chair didn’t collapse under my great weight.”
Sighing, I said, “Do I need to spank you? You’re incredibly ornery lately.”
He smirked. “Well, the spanking thing sounds fun. But I’d never fit on your lap.”
“Fox—” I stopped when my cell rang. I fished it out of my pocket, giving him an exasperated look. “Hello?”
“Hey, Liam, this is Steve.” The hospital administrator’s voice came over the line.
I was surprised he’d call me at home. “What can I do for you, boss?”
Fox gave me a curious look, and I mouthed Steve’s name to him.
“You’ll never guess who I just got off the phone with.” Steve’s voice was cheerful.
I laughed. “You’re right. I have no idea.”
“Fred Monsoon, from Children's Hospital of Los Angeles.”
“Really? What did he want?”
Clearing his throat, Steve said, “You.”
Surprise went through me, and I glanced at Fox. “I’m not following.”
“He wants you to come work for them.”
“He does?” I couldn’t believe my ears.
“Yep. I mean, hell, I’d hate to lose you, but I don’t see how our little hospital can compete with such a prestigious job offer.” He sighed. “We can try and bump your salary up a little, but I doubt it’s going to come near what they’re offering.”
I sat in stunned silence as he rattled on about how much they were willing to pay me, and the details of the position they wanted me to take. When he finally stopped talking, I said, “I don’t understand how they’d even know about me.”
“They caught wind of the postmortem C-section you performed. They were impressed. The baby lived, and as you know, that’s extremely rare. They have a vacancy, and they want you to fil
l that spot.”
“That… that was just luck.”
“Not only luck. You were fast, skillful, and you saved the baby. You should be proud.”
I frowned, and avoided looking at Fox. I wasn’t sure what to feel. Of course I was flattered, but taking a job in Los Angeles could destroy my relationship with Fox. Long distance would be torture, and no way was he going to be willing to leave his whole family, and life here in Sweet Water. He loved it here. It was his home.
“Well, that’s a huge compliment. I’ll obviously have to think about it.”
“Of course. I have Fred’s number. He wants you to call him directly. He tried getting a hold of you here, but it’s your day off, so he tried me instead.” He sighed. “This is a great opportunity for you. I selfishly hope by some miracle you’ll turn it down, but I understand if you take it.”
“I like it here,” I said quietly.
“Oh, sure. Sure. But working at a big hospital like that in Los Angeles can do a lot more for your career than Sweet Water Medical Center ever will.” He grunted. “As much as I hate to admit it.”
“Once I talk to Fred, I’ll let you know what I decide. Of course, I have to talk this over with Fox.”
“Naturally. Talk to you soon.” He rang off.
I sat in silence for a few seconds, then I tucked my phone away. When I met Fox’s curious gaze, I felt sick. Before I’d fallen in love and claimed Fox, I’d have jumped at this opportunity. But now we were together, and we had a baby on the way. My career was still important to me, but when I compared it to how I felt about Fox, it’s value seemed to pale in comparison.
“What do you need to talk over with me?” Fox asked.
“Uh…” I grimaced. “Steve got a call from Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.”
“Why does that concern you?” He sounded uneasy.
I exhaled roughly and met his gaze. “They want to hire me.”
His face seemed to lose all color and he stared in silence.
“They heard about the postmortem C-section and I guess they have a vacancy.” I stopped talking when he stood.
“Are you gonna take it?” he asked breathlessly.
I pulled my brows together. “I don’t know yet.”