Pregnant

Chapter 38

Nathan

“You seem distracted tonight, son. Everything alright?”

I glanced up to see my father eyeing me with concern across the dining table. I set down my untouched dinner fork, knowing deception would be futile under that piercing parental gaze.

“My apologies, Father. I don’t mean to be in poor company this evening.” I with a more pained grimace. “My thoughts are rather scattered lately.”

+5

tempted a reassuring smile that likely appeared

Father nodded sagely, setting his own utensils aside and leaning forward, brow furrowed. “Understandable, given the upheaval these past weeks. Learning you have three spirited young sons so suddenly would unsettle any man. Have you spoken more with their mother since the rather explosive confession?”

I looked away, shame crawling up my neck. “No. Terra refuses any contact still.” I rubbed my temple wearily. “Not that I deserve her trust after the ruthless tactics I employed trying to force the truth from her.”

Father was silent for a long moment. “You acted from deep pain upon discovering the existence of children kept hidden from you for years. Such betrayal would enrage any parent.” He sighed heavily. “But the path ahead requires compassion from you both now.”

I studied the grave ancient eyes that seemed to see straight through to my soul. “You speak truthfully. I pray Terra and I can somehow move forward in our sons‘ best interests, not clinging resentfully to past wrongs.”

“The goddess often leads us up steep and rocky slopes, but the views opened at the summit prove worth the trials endured. Father smiled gently. “Those boys will be your redemption, if you let them.”

His simple but profound wisdom settled over my spirit like a comforting breeze, scattering the clouds of anger and bitterness. He was right – despite the painful revelations between Terra and I, newfound joy waited ahead if I had courage to seek it openly.

“Thank you

for the guidance, as always.” I clapped his shoulders warmly. “Now, tell me more of your travels to the northern forests. I could use some vicarious adventures to sweep the cobwebs away.”

Father’s eyes crinkled fondly. For the rest of the meal he regaled me with colourful tales of his earlier explorations in those rugged territories, temporarily transporting us both from current troubles. I treasured these opportunities to glimpse the adventurous soul still thriving beneath his ageing exterior. The years had never tamed the wild spirit within.

But later, as I lay sleepless churning over fractured hopes regarding Terra and our estranged sons, inspiration struck. Come morning I hurried to Father’s study to propose it eagerly.

“Let us take a short journey, just you and I. It’s been too long since we travelled any distance together.”

Father glanced up from his writing desk, surprise melting into a grin. “An excellent notion! The fresh mountain air would rejuvenate us both.” He stood, already mentally planning the excursion’s details.

I smiled, relieved he welcomed the spontaneous suggestion so readily. “It’s settled then. I’ll make arrangements for an extended stay at the northern estate. Time away may grant much–needed clarity for the path ahead.”

In no time, preparations were complete for several weeks respite in the high peaks where Father often retreated when worldly concerns weighed too heavily. I hoped the calming isolation of the wilds would settle my own restless spirit as well.

The morning of departure, golden light filtered through the windows as Father and I shared a quiet breakfast. Despite eagerness to be off, contentment wrapped me in that peaceful moment. Today’s open road promised welcome change from the claustrophobic tension pervading the penthouse.

1/3

17:30 Sun, Sep 1 GOR

Chapter 38

3 43%

But just as we finished eating, Derek arrived unannounced looking at the grave. My pulse quickened instantly – he never made social calls unless something urgent demanded attention.

“My most sincere apologies for the intrusion, Alpha. But a concerning matter requires your input,” Derek began without preamble.

I set down my napkin, breakfast’s comforting mood evaporating “Of cours follow down the hall. Father trailed behind, features creased with worry.

Let’s speak in my office.” I gestured for him to

Once settled in the study, Derek addressed me somberly. “Word came early this morning that our northern allied pack’s Beta has been assassinated. They request you to travel to consult regarding retaliation.”

I rose swiftly to pace, gut churning. Losing a high–ranking pack leader signalled vulnerability. Rivals might seek to press that weakness.

“This is deeply troubling. Of course I will go offer aid immediately.” I turned to Father. “My apologies, but it seems our travels must be postponed.”

To his credit Father simply inclined his head in graceful acceptance. “I understand completely. Duty must come first, especially in times of crisis.” But disappointment weighed clearly on his ageing shoulders. My own spirit sank witnessing it. This was not the diversion either of us had hoped for.

Packing a small bag, I hastily made arrangements for transport north. But an impulse prompted me to make one brief detour before departing the penthouse for unknown weeks. After asking the driver to wait, I hurried upstairs and knocked firmly on Terra’s suite door.

Her look of surprise when she opened the door twisted rapidly to suspicion. “Why are you here?” she demanded bluntly

I lifted my palms placatingly under her fiery gaze. “Peace. I’ve come only to inform you that urgent pack business requires me to leave the city for some time. But my offer stands, for the boys‘ sake.” I hesitated. “And for ours, if you are willing.”

Terra studied me warily. But her aggressive posture relaxed slightly at seeing my travel attire and solemn expression. She stepped back, waving me impatiently inside. I felt her eyes track me as I paced the plush carpet.

“Speak plainly then. What is this about?” Her voice remained chilled, but held less hostility. I quickly outlined the situation, relieved when her face gradually shifted to understanding, then grave concern.

“That is certainly an urgent threat requiring the Alpha’s direct intervention.” Terra’s brow furrowed thoughtfully. “Keep caution your highest priority. Unrest endangers the entire pack structure.”

I inclined my head in sincere gratitude for the counsel, however unnecessary she likely felt it was. “You have my word, I will act only with care and wisdom for greater stability. And…” I hesitated. “If you can bear it, now I hope to finally talk openly when I return.”

Terra crossed her arms, eyes shuttering closed again. “We shall see. Safe travels, and give my regards to your father. His guidance serves you well.”

Sensing dismissal in her tone, I simply bowed my head and took my leave.

Terra’s small concession today sparked a glimmer of optimism within my heart’s murk.

With time and care, perhaps the gulf between us could narrow someday. Patience and understanding were my allies now.

I hope we get to settle things while I am back.