The hospital staff promised to tell us as soon as they arrive.
Ethan clicks to a local news station, and I watch in horror as they show footage of the wreckage and emergency crew onsite.
“The car belongs to Bram Nilsen, starting defensive lineman for the New Haven Foxes, but that’s not the only shocking part. Starting goalie, Max Connery was also in the vehicle along with the head coach’s daughter, Sloane Applegate. A fourth party was in the vehicle but has yet to be identified. Our sources show that the unidentified male and Miss Applegate are both in the hospital and should make easy recovery. Status on the two hockey pros has not been released, but we fear the worst,” the prim news reporter says.
“It’s unclear what caused the accident, but this bridge is notorious for being dangerous after a large snowstorm. We’ve reached out to the New Haven Foxes for comment but haven’t received anything.”
Ethan clicks to another channel where they are also reporting on the accident.
“It’s been heavily speculated online about the relationship of the two New Haven Foxes players, the mascot and the coach’s daughter. This accident seems to confirm that something has been going on, but our sources indicate that none of them are bonded.” The news reporter holds the mic as he approaches an older man bundled up in a jacket, scarf, and hat.
“Sir, can you tell us what you saw?”
“I didn’t see anything. But I can tell you it was probably Max Connery’s fault. The team hasn’t been the same since he joined. I wouldn’t be surprised if he was the one driving and under the influence.”
“That’s very speculative. Did you see anything that would give you that impression?” the reporter asks.
“He’s just?—”
“Turn it off,” I croak, and Ethan pushes the power button, shutting the TV off as I try and hold it together.
“Hey, they’re going to sensationalize everything. Don’t listen to them.”
“Then why aren’t they here yet?” I ask Ethan.
“Maybe they got taken to a different hospital.”
I can’t help but to think if I bonded them and we pledged as a pack already, I’d be able to get more information. Not to mention, I’d be able to shut up some of the rumors. But hearing them talk about my scent match like that forms a pit in my stomach.
Max stayed. Max did what he promised. He’s a fucking hero, and he’s a good man. I can’t help but to feel so endlessly hopeless right now.
I need my Alphas to be okay. There’s no other option. I’m not sure how I can go on if they aren’t healthy and safe.
Ethan grabs his IV bag as he holds the back of his hospital gown closed and comes to lie in bed with me. He holds me tightly.
“They’re so strong, Sloane. They have so much to live for. It’s going to be okay.”
I want to believe him. God, do I want to believe him. But why haven’t we heard anything? I guess it doesn’t help that our phones were left in the car and we can’t get a hold of anyone.
My parents are probably scared shitless. I imagine they’ll be here any moment.
I’m trying to be brave and be strong about all of this when the nurse and doctor walk into our room. If they’re upset about us cuddling in bed, they don’t say anything.
“Both of your color looks much better. I know it was jarring being brought to the hospital, but the blood work looks great. We just want to bring in an OBGYN to check in on the baby,” the doctor says casually.
“The what?” I ask.
The doctor’s eyes widen, and she clears her throat.
“I’m sorry, you didn’t know?”
I burst into tears, and Ethan holds me closely. I’m sure the doctor is mortified.
This should be the best news. I always knew I wanted to be a mother, and I knew who I wanted to be my pack. We might be dysfunctional, but I love them, and we were going to figure it out.
I’m pregnant, and I don’t even know if my Alphas are okay.
“If you can just give us a few minutes,” Ethan asks, and I can’t hear them leave the room over my sobbing.
