A smooth voice rings from room to room. Gratitude buzzes in the bond making me chuckle.
I line a tray with a French press, three mugs, and sugar and cream. Then I set Lark’s brown sugar latte in the middle. I take the elevator so I don’t spill.
When I step into the hall on the top floor Lark’s voice calls out. “That better be a latte! Not boring brewed coffee.”
“Hey, my coffee is never boring. The alphas get French press today.” I hand her the latte. “And you get your latte, princess.”
She takes a sip, then exhales slowly. “Perfect.”
I didn’t even realize I was carrying a tightness in my chest until I feel it loosen. She deserves everything perfect.
Silas comes out from the shower, towel wrapped carefully around his waist. “My hero,” he says, taking the cup I just poured for him.
Graham sits up and waits for me to pass him his. “How did you get this so fast? I know the water heats quickly for the press, but Lark’s always takes more time.”
"Oh, yeah. I made her stuff in advance."
Graham blinks.
"Before her heat started," I add. "Instead of my usual syrup, I pre-made packets. Ingredients you pour into the bottom of the mug, then brew espresso over the mix."
I pause. "I didn’t know if she'd ask, but I wanted it ready if she did."
Lark takes another sip. “So this isn’t my normal one?”
I shrug. “Same ingredients, just in a different format. I wasn’t sure if you’d ask for something during your heat, and I wanted it to be fast if you did. This way you can make your own if you want one and I’m not here. Everything’s labeled in the pantry. I added a few other flavors in case you want to try something different.”
She blinks. “So, I just make my own espresso and add the packet?”
“You’ll need to heat the milk.”
“I can do that,” she says.
Silas chuckles. “Babe, I’ve tasted your coffee. I’ll make them for you if Saint’s not here.”
Graham takes a sip of Lark’s latte. “That’s really good. You could sell those kits.”
I look at him. I hadn’t thought about it. “Maybe,” I say.
Lark takes another drink, then her eyes go wide. “Can you show me?”
“The coffee flavors? Yeah, I’ll show you next time we’re in the kitchen.”
Lark pushes from the bed. “Careful, princess.” I steady her. “You haven’t eaten much in the past three days and your body’s tired.”
She looks down at her shaking legs like she’s never seen them before. “You’re right. Carry me.”
“Little bird, does this have to happen right now? Why don’t you let me bring you something to eat?”
“It has to be now.”
Graham, Silas, and I share a look. Then I scoop Lark into my arms and head for the stairs.
“Elevator.” She points at the doors near the stairwell entrance. “You probably haven’t eaten much either.”
“I can carry my omega,” I say, but turn toward the doors, pressing the down button.
We all pile in. When Silas steps in, we squeeze in tighter.