“I’m from Clan O’Halloran in Ireland. I do not represent them. I’m not working for them. I have simply moved to New York to be with Dusty. I’m not here for any other reason. Nor do I plan on engaging in any sort of politics or fanfare,” I replied, trying to choose my words carefully.
“I see. What business are you?” she asked.
“Technically, I work for the Company,” I said quietly. “But again, I’m here for Dusty, not business.”
“Oh.” Her look changed to one of respect–then concern. “Does he know? He’s a nice boy.”
“We met because he interrupted one of my hits with his social media shenanigans. He’s known from the very beginning,” I replied.
She started laughing. “That’s Dusty. I will need to pass this on to my brother.”
“As you should. If he has any questions I’m available. I’m not here as a threat. I’m not moving in on any territory,” I reassured. “But I’m not an asset, either.”
“I see. I wish you and Dusty all happiness. Is there anyone else I should be concerned about?” she added.
“There is an omega in our pack. You don’t need to worry about her family, but she is part of the Order of the Black Dahlia. Again, she’s not here for business. Her mates are part of our pack,” I added, wanting to cover everything.
She took a deep breath, the kind that was usually followed by,Grant me patience.“Oh, an Order omega. Goodness.”
“I’ll try to keep her out of as much trouble as I can.” Which members of the Order had she come across for that particular reaction?
“I appreciate that, but I also understand that it can be a bit of an impossible task. Thank you for making yourself known to us.”
We came back out. Dusty was busy talking to the younger man. Someone brought out our food.
Dusty and I sat down at a table. I ate an entire pickle and drank half of my lemonade.
“Carlos’ ex has been blowing up group chats again. When you’re out with Fiona, keep an extra eye out for her in case she tries to cause any trouble. Well, Fiona can absolutely handle herself, but we really don’t need her punching anyone.” He took a bite of his meatball sandwich.
“Of course.” I took a bite of sandwich.
“Question. Do you have anyone who might think that they have some claim to you, or someone that we need to deal with before they show up and make trouble? I don’t. I mean, you’re the only person I’ve been with regularly for some time, but you know, people are weird.” He shrugged.
“Fiona has been my serious partner for a few years now, and you’re the only dick I’ve had for a while.” I took another bite of my sandwich. This was really good. It might be the bread.
He thought for a moment, and anxiety hit me through the bond.
“Did Fiona knock you up?” he blurted.
I froze half a pickle in my hand. “I’m on birth control. As are you.”
“Have you ever thought that perhaps the reason why you might not be feeling so well is that you might have the nine month flu?” He very gently reached over and squeezed my hand.
“The nine month flu?” I frowned and then I got it. Shite. “Wouldn’t it be too soon for me to know?”
“I mean, I think you can know before your period. Have you gotten one lately? Deltas get them monthly, right?” he asked.
“We do, but I’m on the kind of birth control where you don’t get it at all. Changing your tampon when working is a pain,” I replied.
Oh no. Some drugs messed with birth control. No. No. No.
“It’s too early for you to smell it.” My voice broke.
“I get little wisps. Especially when you sweat. I also kinda feel something, in the bond,” he added.
Everything he said felt true.
He took both my hands in his. “It’s okay. After this, we’ll go to the drugstore and get a pregnancy test. You can think about things and we’ll figure it out. Unless you just want to go to the clinic now. Afterwards, I’ll take you home and make you soup and hold you.”
