Page 184 of One Winter Knight
“You all were amazing back there. My family’s a lot,” I added.
“They’re fun. Hey, I promised the kids next time it rains we’d take boogie boards to the skate park,” Hale added.
“Oh, that sounds fun,” Carlos agreed. “We’re more likely to get snow this time of year.”
Hale thought for a moment. “That works.”
We drove home and everyone got out. I followed Saoirse to her room.
She gave me a look. “Can I help you?”
“You did great and they love you. I know they’re overwhelming and I’m so proud of you. At some point maybe we should make a signal for when things get overwhelming and you want to go. I don’t mind leaving whenever you’re ready,” I told her truthfully.
“I was fine,” she deflected.
My forehead pressed to hers. “Liar.”
Her look went horrified. “The bond.”
“I’m happy to leave things whenever you’re ready. Never apologize for that. My family is overwhelming. Carlos’ is overwhelming. I get the idea that Hale’s family is also overwhelming,” I assured.
“My family is terrifying and we all know what Fiona’s family is like,” she laughed.
I wrapped my arms around her. “I’m here. I understand why Fiona’s dads named you head alpha, and no one’s going to take that from you. But you don’t have to bear it alone. I can be a responsible alpha, and I promise it won’t take too much away from my fun-loving demeanor.”
“Thank you. Though if you get all growly and barky on me, I’m going to kick you in the balls.” Her eyes narrowed.
“You should absolutely do that. But I can’t be a little growly sometimes? Maybe in bed.” I waggled my eyebrows and made what I hoped was an alluring little growl.
She laughed and pushed me in the chest. “Maybe.”
Wait. Maybe? Really?
“Your family is nice. I just was never good at making small talk,” she replied. “Not to mention, I am currentlynotin private security.”
“Oh. Right, because everyone asks you what you do and you can’t tell people. Saying,I just moved here and am looking,is an acceptable answer. We'll figure it all out as we go along and I’m here for whatever you need. I know you can take care of yourself, but don’t be afraid to let me take care of you, too.” I gave her a kiss.
“Thank you. Your gran asked me a whole lot of questions about having children, but she’s cute,” she added.
“Oh yes, I should’ve prepared you for that. My bad. I’m sorry.” My head tilted. “Do you want kids? I know Fiona wants a ton of them, but what about you? I mean, I guess you could have kids and be an assassin?”
“If my gran were still alive, she’d love to tell you the story of how she made one of the biggest hits of the century, while having contractions when pregnant with my ungrateful father.” She laughed. “I know plenty of moms who are assassins. I don’t want an entire sports team, but I wouldn’t mind one at some point. We should probably do the math and figure out exactly how many children we can afford in the lifestyle Fiona would like them to be accustomedto.”
“Yes. I’m not great at that, but I have a good accountant and financial planner,” I replied. “I’d absolutely have a baby with you.”
Oh, would I.
“You think I’m having your baby?” Her eyes twinkled and I got pure teasing through the bond.
“If Fiona knocks you up, I guess I can deal with that, along with all the half-feral babies. Fiona is going to have that with Carlos and Hale,” I replied.
That was going to be a lot of joy in this house.
“Do you think she’s pregnant now?” I wondered, remembering what Abuelita said.
Saoirse thought for a moment. “Well, we’ll know in a day or two.”
I kicked the door shut with my foot. “Do you need help getting undressed?”
