The healer said I was fine and so was the baby. He answered things about caffeine and vitamins and diet. I would have to curb some things like sugar and no more wine, but those were easy since I didn’t consume a ton of that stuff anyway.
On the ride home, Foster was quiet. My bear scented his worry. He white-knuckled the steering wheel all the way home.
When he put the car into park, I put my hand on him.
“Talk to me,” I said.
“I was fine before but going there and hearing the heartbeat. I’m worried now. Childbirth is a huge freaking deal. And those complications the healer mentioned? Terrifying. And I just realized there that I don’t have any clue on how to take care of you through this or how to even change a diaper. I have all this knowledge and school and work, but I’m clueless when it comes to this. What kind of alpha am I?”
“Do you want some time to cool off and then we can talk through those things?”
The whole speech from him sounded more like venting than actual concerns. Foster was a supportive and loving mate. I couldn’t have asked for a better alpha.
Yes, we had issues that we were working through, but we did just that, figured them out together.
“I do think I need a few minutes.”
“Okay. I’m here when you would like to talk. No rush.”
I went inside, and the visit actually gave me some peace. There were always things that could go wrong, but I would work hard to make sure our baby and I were as healthy as we could be.
Childbirth scared me too, but fear didn’t do anything but stifle life.
I fixed lunch for us and went out to the back porch to eat. The backyard had become a place of peace for me. It was one of the reasons I chose this house.
“I’m sorry.” Foster came to sit down beside me. “You deserve someone who is steady and not adding to your stress.”
“I deserve you, and you deserve me. Let’s dispel that notion, okay?”
He nodded.
“And you were right about some things. I don’t know how to change a diaper either. Or take care of myself through this. But we have information, and the healing center gave us resources and books. We learn. I’m sure this won’t be our only baby, so this one is a learning curve and the next will be pieces of cake.”
Tears welled in the alpha’s eyes. “You’re incredible, omega. Truly. I’m gonna be the best I can for you two. Or three or seven.”
“Seven! Let’s not get carried away. Let’s eat and then get to the studio.”
“What for? You don’t have a class today.”
I leaned against his shoulder. “But I need the class today. To be a student.”
“I’ll go with you. So much for my easygoing attitude this morning.”
“It’s okay. We balance each other.”
Chapter Twenty-One
Foster
We had a hard time setting up the surprise shower. Because it was at the studio, the only space big enough for everyone who wanted to come, and my mate, at nearly nine months pregnant, still went in every day at least to teach a class or two. In Oliver Creek, where young couples were growing their families at a remarkable rate, there had been a call for classes for pregnant omegas in all the disciplines he offered. Although Jonathan was filling in for most of his sessions, my mate wanted to cover the new classes himself. The only day he did not have anything specifically his was Wednesday evening, not the most common choice for a party, but what we had available.
Everyone from every class planned to attend, as well as their mates and many of the restaurant owners, shopkeepers, and, of course, Quinn. He took full credit for my improved health, since I had actually followed his directions finally. I knew it was due to my omega’s influence as well, but he wasn’t the type to want credit anyway and gladly gave it to the healer.
“Do you mind if we stop by the studio?” I asked. “I left my…my wallet there yesterday.”
From the odd look he gave me, I probably should have rehearsed this. But he only said, “All right. I might survive without ice cream for a few more minutes.”
“Thanks, baby. You’re the best.”
