No one had done that for Hades before.
“Fuck, I love you,” Hades said raggedly.
Aaren’s breath hitched. He looked up at Hades all wide-eyed, like he hadn’t expected that. Then he grew brighter, like Hades’ words had lit him up from the inside. “Hades, I—” He blushed bright red. “I think I might love you too.”
Hades hugged him, his heart so full, it felt like it might explode.
They stood there in each other’s arms, swaying back and forth, caught in a little bubble of their own. It was more comforting than Hades had expected.
Someone hammered on the door. Both of them jumped.
“Stay here,” Hades said. He left Aaren at the couch and checked the peephole—Fury, and Emmy’s cop alpha, Varrick Halstead.
He opened the door for them.
“Why am I always the one being called in for these?” Varrick muttered, but he was already stepping into the house, looking around.
“You’re the one we all trust,” Fury said lightly. “Word of mouth.”
“Gee, thanks,” Varrick said.
Hades led him to the bedroom and explained what had happened. The whole time, he half-expected Varrick to slap a pair of handcuffs on his wrists.
But all Varrick said was, “Was Aaren your omega through all of this?”
“Yes. Still is,” Hades said. “We signed a contract earlier today, too. He’s been living with me for a couple of weeks.”
Varrick nodded. “Good. You won’t get in trouble for defending your omega.”
Hades hadn’t thought he needed to hear that, but he felt weak with relief anyway.
As though he could tell, Aaren came up and tucked himself under Hades’ arm. “Things are going to be all right?”
“They are,” Hades said, thankful for everything he never thought he’d get to have.
Now, all they needed was to get through Aaren’s pregnancy.
Then it would be fatherhood for them both. Oh, dear gods.
30
BROTHERHOOD CHAT
Hades
So, I have some news.
Jag
What kinda news?
Rex
Aaren?
Fury
You mean, aside from you clearing out Aaren’s trash alpha?
