Page 131 of One Winter Knight
“Verity does some modeling shit when she’s not getting her PhD, raising Mercy, doing things with happy flowers, and beingwith her mates,” he brushed off. “Let me show you some other pictures of my siblings.”
Hale showed me his rich big sister, Grace–a tiny delicate blonde. His older brother, who looked a whole lot like a tall, male version of Grace. There was his goth little brother, who lived in Boston, studying the cello, and another little brother, who lived in the Bay Area. I also saw pictures ofthe littles–his three smallest siblings, who lived in London.
“Your family is very cute,” I told him, not missing the fact that I got no pictures of his parents, just his siblings.
Housekeeping brought our blankets and snacks, and we settled down to watch a movie, this one not in German.
It was nice as we snacked and relaxed. The movie was almost over when there was a pounding on the door.
Dusty sat up. “Did we order more food?”
“I didn’t,” I replied. “But I think it’s time to get ready for dinner?”
We’d made reservations for a late dinner at the lodge.
The thumping continued and before someone could get up to answer it, the door flew open and people flooded in.
“Fiona, thank fuck you’re safe.” Dad, Finn Gallagher, stood in front of me, looking fierce, but relieved. My other dads and some of their security were with them.
“What are you doing here? I'm fine.” I covered my face with a pillow, embarrassment making my cheeks burn.
“You were supposed to be back yesterday. There were no texts, no calls. We couldn’t get a hold of you. We couldn’t find your location,” Dad demanded. “What were we supposed to do? You could’ve been kidnapped, or worse.”
My eyes rolled at his theatrics. “I texted you that we’re fine. I’m coming back tomorrow. There was a snowstorm.”
“Finn, I told you the same today.” Saoirse sat up and gave him a frosty look.
“We were already mobilizing by the time I got that message. You’re supposed to keep her safe.” Finn gave her a dark look.
“She’s perfectly safe. There was a snowstorm which affected both our ability to leave and communication.” Authority radiated from Saoirse.
“We’ve come to bring you home, Sweetheart,” Daddy, who was probably the most easy-going of my dads, said.
“I’m fine. You could’ve called–the phones work now.” I gave them a defiant look. The audacity. I was an omega, not a child.
“Tomorrow is the earliest we could get back. I apologize for the inconvenience, sir,” Dusty replied.
Dad’s eyes focused on Carlos and Hale, and growled, “Who the fuck are they?”
“You're seeing people besides Saoirse?” Daddy asked, a little hurt. “You didn’t tell me.”
“Since when have I told you about my dating life?” I rolled my eyes again. “This is Carlos and Hale. You know Saoirse, and then there’s Dusty.”
Dadio, who was a giant alpha, but didn’t say much, frowned, sniffing the air. “What’s that smell?”
“Is everything okay? Are they holding you hostage?” Da switched to Irish. “This applies to both of you. They don’t look formidable, but you never know. Appearances can be deceiving.”
“Ugh. They’re not holding us hostage. We like these people. You can leave now. We’re fine and have dinner reservations.” I pointed at the door.
Dadio’s frown deepened and I had a feeling he figured it out. We’d aired out the place, but it still reeked.
“Sweetie, did you go into heat?” Daddy asked. Concern filled the room.
“Yes, I went into a surprise heat during the snowstorm, which is why I didn’t text you. Not that it’s your business. Thank you very much. Goodbye.” I threw a pillow at him.
“I see.” Dad’s hard gaze focused intently on Hale and Carlos, displeasure on his face.
“And you didn’t tell us, Saoirse?” Daddy demanded.
