Killian
The edgesof Killian's vision blurred. The world seemed cottony and soft, and the only thing that stood out from the haze was Scout's vibrant and clear form. Before he knew what he was doing, he rushed towards him, scooping up his mate in his arms and embracing him like it was the last time he would ever hold him.
But that wasn't the case — no, this was only the beginning. Joy flowed through Killian as he held Scout close, touching the back of his neck and inhaling his scent and running his fingers through his hair. It was like he was floating on a cloud, and the only thing that brought him down from his joyous high was Scout's laugh and voice murmuring, "Killian, you're crushing me."
"Sorry," he said, loosening his grip. Killian stared into Scout's beautiful eyes, wanting to never look away. "I — I don't know what to say."
"Me neither," Scout whispered.
The doctor cleared his throat to remind the two lovesick mates that they weren't alone. "I take it the prince is pleased with this situation?" he asked with a wry smile.
"Yes," Killian said, honestly. "Very. More than I ever thought I would be."
Kyle was fully in tears now, although from joy rather than anxiety. He rushed up to Scout and hugged him as well. "I'm so happy for you!" he cried. "I can't imagine how excited you are!"
"Extremely excited," Scout said. Then he paused, squeezing Killian's hand a little tighter. "And a little scared, too."
"That's perfectly normal," Dr. Morris said. "In fact, I'd be concerned if a new pair of parentswasn'ta little scared."
Scout was giddy. He suddenly felt ridiculous about wanting to hide the possibility from his mate. This was the best news he could have ever received. Up until now, he didn't understand the rush of emotion and happiness new parents always said they experienced — he always thought it must be their hormones acting up or something. But now, feeling it for himself — the intense urge to nurture and protect, the overwhelming love for his unborn child, the strong, unbreakable bond he felt with Killian — now he completely understood.
From the shine in Killian's eyes, Scout knew he felt the same way. He hugged his mate again.
Killian stroked the back of his hair. "We should tell my father," he said. "He'll be overjoyed to know that his project was a success after all." He gave a light snort. "And knowing him, he might even say 'I told you so.'"
Scout laughed. "He was right, after all. We were the ones who didn't believe him."
"I'll go get him," Dr. Morris said, running into the nursery. "King Whitewood, your majesty! I have great news!"
The king came out of the nursery in a huff, then furrowed his brow at the group that had congregated outside. "Dr. Morris, what's the meaning of this?"
"I think the prince should be the one to tell you himself," Dr. Morris said.
When the king's expectant gaze fell on the two mates, Killian raised his head and proudly said, "We're expecting a baby."
The expression on the king's face spread slowly until the only emotions left were shock and joy — the latter being an emotion rarely displayed by the king. He rushed towards Scout and Killian, opening his arms to give them both an awkward hug. Killian blushed. He couldn't even remember the last time his father had embraced him. He felt a strange sort of nostalgic happiness.
"I can't believe it," the king said. Then he broke out into a wide grin. "Except I can! I was right, I knew you two would start a family sooner rather than later!"
Scout sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. "Actually, it was a surprise for us too. We weren't planning on anything, but this is just fate, I guess."
"No matter," the king said. "I'll need to make preparations. The nursery should be complete within the week—"
"I don't think I'm that far along," Scout squeaked.
"And I'll have the kitchen staff prepare orders of organic food in advance for Scout— "
"Father," Killian said.
But the king wasn't listening. He was off in his own thoughts, listing off things he needed to accomplish before the baby's arrival. He let out a laugh, a sound that Killian hadn't heard in years. "A grandfather! I'm going to be a grandfather!"
The mates couldn't help but smile as the king retreated to the nursery, jittery with excitement.
"Well, I for one think he's taking the news rather well," Killian said with a smirk.
Scout chuckled. "You think?"
"Ah, that reminds me," Dr. Morris said. "Scout, you'll need to come in for regular checkups now. And as for those prescription prenatal vitamins—"
