Despite being kicked out of Cicek’s house, I couldn’t just leave him to face his future alone. It was imperative that he know he had support, moral, physical, financial—anything he needed that I could provide. No strings attached. The previous night, he’d insisted I leave and just about accused me of being as bad as his ex, as any other alpha, but I didn’t take it to heart. Well, I did…and sleep was long in coming, but this morning, I recognized that nobody could be held to anything they said under such severe stress.
What would I do in his position? As an alpha, I wouldn’t be pregnant, but I hoped I had enough empathy to imagine myself in someone else’s position. His former alpha had to have been completely horrible to have him so upset, and so adamant that he would insist on living alone and raising his child without help. His tirade was light on details but heavy on emotion, and my bear was ready to go find this alpha and end him.
Cicek was a strong, independent omega, and most of what I’d picked up about his former relationship and living situation had been in bits and pieces, tiny clues in conversation. Until last night when he spilled more in his frustration and protectiveness over the babe in his belly.
He had said more than once in the past that he didn’t plan to mate again or have children, so this was not planned—at least by him. Yet, he was already trying to find the best path both for him and the baby.
I’d have to work hard to keep my bear, who wanted his mate, at bay, but he would have to accept the place in Cicek’s life he might grant us. Supportive friend, if nothing changed. He’d need someone in that position, no matter how difficult it might be not to press for more. As I thought these things over, I measured out oatmeal and added whole milk to the pot. Then I made a quick cup of coffee in the single cup maker and settled down for the few minutes it would take for the porridge to cook. I loved steel-cut best, but they took a good half hour, and this morning, I did not want to take the time.
When the oatmeal was thickened, I spooned it into a bowl and added topping. The very best part of eating hot cereal. At this time of year, the farmer’s market was loaded with sweet, ripe fruit and I had overbought on my last trip. No worries, though, I piled raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and a sliced peach on my cereal and drizzled local amber honey over the whole thing before digging in. I had a lot to do today, and fuel was imperative. I used my breakfast eating time to do a little research as well.
As I scraped up the last bite, I wondered if the omega liked this sort of breakfast. It might be a little heavy if his stomach was still off, but I could ask. For this morning, I had a different list, though, and with time ticking away, I needed to get to the grocery store if I wanted to open my shop on time.
Phone in hand, I marched up and down the aisles, pushing my cart, which was rapidly filling. On shifter social media, I had fallen down the rabbit hole of what omegas liked or needed early in pregnancy. Obviously, different animals varied in some cases, and I didn’t run across any hedgehogs specifically, but certain items appeared over and over, so those were the ones on my list.
Ginger ale and some ginger chews went into the cart first, apparently a magical ingredient for any tummy issues in general. Then I went to the dairy aisle and bought cottage cheese and yogurt, easy to digest and high in protein. Saltines and Club crackers. High in carbs and low in fat was also a theme with rice mentioned, so I bought some of the microwavable envelopes that took only ninety seconds. Nothing too spicy, just plain rice and some made with chicken broth. Pasta also came the same way, easy to prepare and easy on the tummy.
Everyone talked about not getting dehydrated, so I bought some flavored waters and juices that might appeal. It didn’t take long before my cart was piled high, and I hesitated, considered putting things back so I didn’t overwhelm Cicek, but ended up adding a small watermelon and some cucumbers, both high in water and refreshing, instead.
With the bags piled in the back of the car, I drove home and parked in my space behind the shop. Again, I considered whether I’d overdone, and while I acknowledged I had…I also decided I didn’t care. He would have what he needed to stay healthy, and my bear heartily approved. Gathering the bags in my arms, I cut down the alley and came around to the front door of Bloom.
The store was open, but I saw no sign of anyone. I proceeded toward the counter, juggling all the bags. Might be best to just leave it all there, anyway, after last night. No pressure that way. He’d probably be just as glad not to have to see me. I headed for the door.
“Zion, wait.”
I turned back to see Cicek emerging from the back room. “Hi. I was just dropping off a few things for you.”
He gaped at the overflowing paper bags. “Half the grocery store?”
“I know. My bear and I were overenthusiastic. I hope you’re not offended.”
“Offended? Perhaps you should be because I was so rude last night. You’re nothing but wonderful and supportive, and I was incredibly ungrateful.”
“No, omega.” I cleared my throat around the emotions gathering there. “No apology necessary. I’m here for you no matter what. As friends only, if that is your wish.”