"So...this is where you grew up?" Jak asked as they stood outside the large black iron gates of Reista Manor. Their escort squads surrounded them in sheild formation, but surprisingly, there weren't any reporters or nosey citizens to hide from here. The large estates of the super wealthy nobility and aristocracy seemed to exist in an entirely different dimension from the other classes of Haven.
It felt so...lonely.
"Yup. Home sweet home..." Torn felt his throat tighten as he took in the grandeur of his childhood home.
The Reista Manor stood taller than most other estates. Its neoclassical architecture made it seem about as large as a palace in its grandeur. The enormous front courtyard only helped exemplify the splendor and decadence of the estate. Beautifully groomed plants and clean stone walkways led up to a pure white mansion decorated with beautifully carved marble statues and stark white stone walls.
It gave the impression of beauty and elegance, but Torn knew better.
This place had been nothing more than a prison to him ever since his parents' deaths when he was about 16. When he was accepted into the Omegan Inclusion initiative at 18, it was a dream come true, and finally gave him a way out of his Grandmother's suffocating control. His only regret was leaving Tear behind, though it was only a year later that Countess Reista kicked him out and disowned him after he refused an arranged bonding.
It sounded bad, but if anyone asked Tear, he would say his only regret was not leaving sooner.
Everything worked out for them in the end anyway.
Well...almost everything.
Torn turned to look at Jak, feeling something weakly thump in his chest when the blonde Alpha looked back up at him and smiled. He looked away quickly and stated, "Wipe off that stupid grin and stay sharp. We're entering the lion's den. I'm pretty sure this is some sort of power play, so stick by me and be prepared for anything."
Jak nodded as he kept his grin, "It'll be fine, Torn. There's nothing she can do that we can't counter. Let's just get through the boring shit so you can show me around!"
"That optimism is going to get you killed one day, punk." Torn grumbled as the gates started squeaking open, "Well, looks like that's our cue to get a move on. Lets go." Before he took a step forward, Jak suddenly grabbed his arm.
"Hey Torn, come here a sec'."
Torn raised a brow, but he didn't question anything and leaned down to hear what Jak had to say.
Turns out, Jak had nothing to say, and instead leaned up and planted a chaste kiss on Torn's cheek. He pulled back before Torn could react and teased, "For luck." He then entered the gates and began walking down the stone drive, leaving Torn frozen in place behind him.
When the shock wore off, Torn growled lowly under his breath as he trudged behind the over-confidant Alpha.
He regretted ever kissing the little bastard last night.
His kiss in the restaurant has now turned into an open invitation for Jak to plant one on him whenever he felt like it. He kissed him before they went to bed the previous night, and in the morning after their scenting session.
Granted, it was only ever on the cheek or forehead. Jak had avoided his mouth altogether...most likely because he knew Torn wouldn't appreciate it.
And while Torn was grateful the chaste little pecks remained that way...he couldn't help but feel unsatisfied.
He refused to act on those feelings however...that would be admitting that he liked the little shit and craved his touch. And Torn was absolutely not ready for that damning step in their relationship.
As he followed behind Jak, Torn glanced up at the looming structure as they approached. He felt something heavy settle in his stomach as he felt trepidation at the thought of seeing that woman again so soon.
He knew she had an angle. She would never have invited him back to the manor unless it would be beneficial for her. Did she want something with Jak? What could she possibly hope to gain? A quick glance around didn't show any reporter vans or other vehicles, so it didn't look like there would be anyone else here.
And yet, he felt the unease of something looming.
When they reached the front doors, they were automatically opened and an elderly woman in a butler suit greeted them.
"Welcome home Master Torn." The elderly woman gave a dutiful bow.
Torn nodded towards her, "Thanks. Good to see you again, Mia."
The older woman, Mia, simply nodded and continued, "It is wonderful to see you again as well, Young Master. It has been incredibly dull around here without you and Master Tear wreaking havoc on my staff."
Torn smirked teasingly, "I take it you prefer the peace and quiet?"
Mia's neutral face took on a more solemn expression, "Not a day goes by where I do not wish I was fixing one of your messes."
Torn felt a pang in his chest at the confession. Mia was always so stoic...ever since he was a child, she's always been the hard-ass keeping him and his brothers in line. There was a point where he was convinced that she hated them and her job.
Seems he was very wrong.
He turned and swung an arm around Jak's shoulders, pulling him to his side, "Speaking of messes, this is my husband, Prince Jak Mar."
Jak glared at him and growled, "Excuse me? Rude!"
Mia raised her well-manicured brow and then bowed at the waist, "Welcome to Reista Manor, your majesty. I trust you're taking good care of my old ward?"
Jak shrugged, "Not really, I mean, he's pretty good at taking care of himself."
"I have to be," Torn grumbled, "Especially since you've got the self-preservation instincts of a lightning squirrel."
"Hey! I'm not the one who goes around touching strange crystals they stumble across in the desert!"
"Oh, for fucks sake! Will you ever let me live that down?!"
A cough interrupted them. They both turned back to Mia as she gave then a neutral expression, even when her eyes showed amusement, "I don't mean to interrupt, but Madam is expecting you both. If you are ready, please follow me to the west parlor."
Jak immediately looked away in mild embarrassment while Torn quickly tried to save face for the both of them, "Apologies. We're ready, lead the way." Mia gave another respectful bow, then turned on her heel and began drifting through the foyer to the massive main staircase. Torn offered Jak his hand, which the younger Alpha eagerly took, and began following the elderly butler.
Truth be told, Torn felt like he could get to the parlor blindfolded...despite not having set foot in this manor since he joined the guard. As he led Jak up the grand staircase, passing the doors to the ballroom and heading up the west stairwell, he felt old memories begin flooding back.
As a child, he remembered running up and down these stairs playing "Guards and Metal heads" with his brothers. He could remember the best hiding spots for playing hide and seek. As they went down the west main hall, he glanced at a table he once banged his knee on. He hit it so hard he fractured the kneecap. It didn't dissuade him from continuing playing tag indoors.
He never would have thought that the next time he walked these halls...it would be with his mate.
Finally, they came to a large set of mahogany double doors, which Mia swiftly opened to reveal a large, beautifully decorated parlor room. The white walls were accented with polished gold edging, and the marble floors were scarcely covered with dark blue rugs accented with floral designs in gold thread. A grand marble fireplace stood at the far wall, already containing a blazing fire inside.
In the center of the room, lounging on Gold and white satin couches, were Countess Reista and Senator Arippa.
Countess Reista sat in the middle of the center couch, hands neatly placed in her lap guarding a cup of tea as she embodied a stoic demeaner, though Torn could feel her annoyance from where he stood.
The culprit, Senator Arippa sat innocently on the left couch, sipping tea from a porcelain teacup nonchalantly. Looking to his brother's left, he realized what he did to irritate their Grandmother so...
In full armor, Arippa's mate Eryn sat beside him, looking very tense as the Countess's eyes occasionally glared daggers at him from in between sips of tea.
She never did approve of him...and not just because he's also an Alpha.
Arippa was the first to notice them. He smiled warmly and placed his teacup down before swiftly making his way over to Jak and Torn as the doors closed behind them. "Good morning! We're so glad you both could make it!" He wrapped an arm around both of them, placing his head in between them. Just as Torn was about to chew him out for yet another unwarranted hug, Arippa whispered to them both.
"She's set up a live interview with Lotta Bellmore. I've no idea what her goal is, but you better figure out a plan to deal with it, fast!"
"Senator," Countess Reista growled loud enough for all of them to hear, "This is not the time or place for frivolous displays of affection."
Arippa pulled back and gave them both a short nod before that false smile blossomed on his face, as if it never left. He turned to the Countess and laughed, "Now now, Grandmother, familial bonding is anything but frivolous! But, if you insist, I suppose I can wait until after your little event."
The Countess narrowed her eyes and nearly bellowed in her overpowering Alpha voice, "Sit down. All of you."
Arippa managed to maintain his graceful stride and he returned to his seat, and Torn managed to remain in his spot for a whole 10 seconds before his inner Omega's submissive nature kicked in, and he moved to sit on the sofa opposite of Arippa and Eryn. Jak followed behind him, by his own will or in response to an older Alpha's order, Torn wasn't sure.
As he settled in the barely used furniture, Torn felt anxiety pool in the pit of his stomach.
He knew she had an ulterior motive...but a talk show interview?! What the hell was she planning?! From what he could deduce, this was probably a power move on the other council members. She was showing off her new status as extended member of a royal family.
That was the only reason she even wanted to pawn Torn off in the first place...so she could claim the Reistas as related to Royalty.
They were already the most prestigious family in Haven, just one half-step below the Praxis's, and being the reigning Alpha of her family, Ashelin was very much out of reach when it came to political bondings.
He turned to Jak, noticing the exact same anxiety clear on his face.
He wasn't ready for something like this.
The kid recoiled at street reporters, how the hell was he going to survive a fucking live interview?!
Torn reached down and placed a hand on Jak's, firmly squeezing it before he leaned in and whispered, "Just let me handle this. You don't have to play her game."
Jak looked down, unable to respond as the anxiety washed over him. He was never good at public speaking. Conversing with people on the street was one thing, but being put on the spot by a strange person in front of possibly millions of people was something different and terrifying.
Countess Reista brought them both to attention by letting out an irritated sigh, "Senator Arippa has no doubt made you aware of the reason why I have invited you here today, but it changes nothing." She turned to Jak and gave another pleasant false smile, "Thank you for arriving in a timely manner. I trust my grandson has been tending to your needs as his Alpha?"
Jak scrunched his nose in confusion, "My needs?"
She raised a brow and gave another sigh, "I suppose that answers my question." She turned her attention to Torn and stated, "I had hoped being bonded would finally bring out your true nature, but I suppose it still needs some time to sink in for you." She turned away and stated, "Hopefully, your Alpha can kickstart those instincts once he matures."
Torn glared down at his feet, unable to meet his Grandmother's eyes. He had so much he wanted to say to her. So many things he wanted to throw in her face...but even now, her presence dwarfed his.
Had he always been such a coward?
Meanwhile, Jak had noticed the way Torn shut down under the Countess's put-downs. This went beyond Alpha and Omega. He'd seen Torn put Jinx in his place without a second thought. He's seen how comfortable he acted around Ashelin, and how protective he was around him. And how he had no problem calling him out on something or taking charge whenever necessary.
The man he'd come to know didn't take shit from anyone...Alpha or not.
Even when they faced Erol, and Torn was obviously terrified to be near him, he still kept himself in full control, even getting the other Omega to back down as he stopped the brewing brawl between him and Jak.
And yet...in the presence of this woman, he became meek...submissive...small...
It made Jak want to reach across the stainless glass coffee table and wring the old bitch's neck. From the few stories he'd heard, it was clear to Jak that this woman must have psychologically abused his mate for years to get him this far under her thumb. She was probably angry at him because he was the square peg that wouldn't fit in the round hole. So she shaved down his edges until he had no choice but to fit.
It disgusted him to no end. But this wasn't the time or place to start that argument.
He focused on Torn's hand that laid on top of his. He felt the protective, reassuring squeeze it gave. Even now, Torn was still thinking of him. Jak raised his head to look back at Countess Reista as she fiddled with her com, most likely signaling that they were ready for the interview.
He didn't know what would happen once the cameras turned on, but he resolved that no matter what...he would support Torn.
His own feelings be damned.
Countess Reista pressed a button on her com and summoned a hovering reporter bot into the room. She then addressed them again, "You will be silent during this interview. I will be the one to converse with Miss Bellemore. If she asks you a question, answer briefly then defer to me."
Torn narrowed his eyes as he debated, "Isn't the subject of this interview about the royal couple? Won't it be awkward if we can't speak?"
"Remind me again, how much experience do you have with interviews?" The Countess swiftly replied, giving Torn a disapproving look, "Miss Bellemore is well-aware that I will be the main speaker. Most of the questions are going to be about the political future of the arrangement and how it will affect Haven." She put her com unit away and continued, "You should be grateful. This is a wonderful opportunity for your Alpha to endear himself to the public. The masses are desperate for even a single glimpse of a Prince; he won't even need to speak a word for them to be satisfied."
As much as he hated to admit it, there was a smidge of sense in his Grandmother's argument. They do need to put their best foot forward here, and he was sure that Jak's little outburst at the restaurant was already being shared online. They needed all the good publicity they could get...
A reporter bot floated in front of them and projected a large screen, showcasing a pink-haired woman wearing a pearl-white business suit. The woman gave a toothy grin and chimed cheerily, "Good morning, Grand Councilor! Oh! And is that Senator Arippa?" She peered to the side and gave a wave to Arippa, "It's been a while, Senator! How's your boyfriend?"
"We're both doing wonderfully, Miss Lotta." He gave a nod then motioned to Eryn, who jolted to attention, "A bit eager for the same-type marriage bill to pass, but you know how that's going."
Lotta gave a knowing smirk, "Oh, do I ever! Did you catch my last interview with Millie Spyre?"
A loud cough interrupted Arippa as he was about to answer. Countess Reista gave him a glare before turning her attention to Lotta, "Miss Bellemore, I would prefer to move this interview along as quickly as possible. I am a busy woman, and though I've made time to get you an exclusive interview with myself and my extended Royal family, I do not have all day. You and the Senator can discuss these...marginal topics at another time."
Despite being treated so dismissively, Miss Bellemore kept a cheery expression and replied, "Of course! I understand you are busy, and I truly appreciate that you took time to meet with me today." She turned towards Jak and Torn and gave a warm smile, "That goes for you as well, your majesties. Thank you for agreeing to be on the show! My audience and I can't wait to get to know all about your bonded life so far!"
Torn gave a small smile that managed to not look forced and stated simply, "Thanks for inviting us."
Being a professional, Lotta's brows drew down into slight concern as she reassured them, "The show is pretty casual. Anything you don't want to answer, you won't have to. No need to be nervous!" She then straightened herself and touched her ear, most likely listening to her manager through an earpiece, "We're ready to go live in one minute." She turned back to the Countess as well as Jak and Torn and briefly explained what would be happening during the interview, "Alright, so here's how this will go, I'll do my introduction, then when the light on your monitor goes blue, that means you're on camera. Just act naturally and if you don't want to answer something just say something like 'I can't discuss that at this time'. After about an hour or so we'll cut for a commercial break, and after that your Majesties are allowed to leave if you wish. Ready?"
"Yes. You may proceed." Countess Reista immediately answered for all of them.
Lotta nodded to someone off camera then rolled her shoulders and neck once before looking off to her side towards what must have been the main camera. She flashed her toothy smile again and Jak heard some cheery music blaring through the camera.
When the music stopped, Lotta began her introduction, "Good morning you lovely lads and lasses! Lotta Bellemore here, and today we have an exclusive interview with the Grand Councilor, Countess Reista, and with a very special couple. You may have caught their unconventional, yet passionate bonding ceremony just a few days ago, and they have graciously decided to sacrifice some of their valuable honeymoon time to speak with us today! Let's all give them a warm welcome!"
Lotta turned her attention to them and the green light at the top of the camera turned blue, signaling they were officially on screen.
Jak wasn't sure if he was supposed to be smiling or not. He was pretty sure he looked like a kangarat in the headlights at this point. He peeked at Torn's face and found that he bore a softer version of his usual "resting bitch face", and the Countess bore that same impassive expression that she seemed to always wear.
The world around him tuned out as he vaguely heard Lotta and the Countess begin chatting about something political. He was hyper aware of what his body was doing...how each limb, joint, and muscle felt both too stiff and too lax. He didn't know what to do with his hands, whether or not he should be sitting cross-legged or not, or if he should be smiling or not.
The only thing keeping him grounded was the warmth of Torn's hand over his own.
After what seemed like hours, and before he could decide on a smile or blank face, Ms. Bellemore addressed him.
He snapped to attention and saw her looked at him expectantly.
Did she just ask him something?
He gulped around the lump in his throat, "S-sorry, can you repeat that?"
Lotta smiled warmly and restated, "I asked how you are liking Haven so far, your highness? You've only been here for a couple days now, but surely you did a little sightseeing?"
Jak relaxed a bit, thankful it wasn't a super invasive question, "Um...yeah, Torn-...er...Commander Reista showed me around the Bazaar and Stadium yesterday."
"Oh, wonderful!" Lotta clapped her hands together excitedly, "Did you have fun?!"
Jak smiled as he began telling Miss Bellemore all about the long walk through the Bazaar and the zoomer race they watched. As he talked, he found himself becoming more comfortable conversing with Lotta. It was almost like talking to a friend in a café. She listened intently to his every word, showing actual interest in what he had to say...completely the opposite of what Jak expected from her.
The moment he was finished, Misss Bellemore thanked him for sharing and turned her attention to Torn. Jak relaxed visibly as the attention moved away from him.
"Commander...um..." She looked a tad sheepish for a moment before admitting, "I'm sorry, is that title still appropriate? I mean no disrespect, but I'm not all that knowledgeable about military customs."
Torn gave a nod, "No worries, technically it would be appropriate in official social settings such as this-"
"However, since he has no need for such a title, you should refer to him by his name, or the title 'Prince Consort'." Countess Reista's voice immediately interjected, causing Torn to stiffen up beside Jak. She turned to Torn, her face holding a small smile and her eyes holding a warning, "Don't you agree, my dear?"
Jak could see Torn's jaw clenching as he pressed his lips together in a tight line. After a moment he said, "Yeah...I guess so."
Lotta looked between them and addressed Torn again, "If I may be so bold...there's been a lot of mixed talk about your decision to step down as Commander. You've done a lot of good in that position and there's a lot of confusion of what inspired you to retire. Will you be willing to elaborate on that?"
Before Torn even opened his mouth, the Countess interrupted again, "There's really nothing much to tell, Miss Bellemore. My Grandson wasn't feeling fulfilled in that position." She crossed her hands on her lap and glanced back at Lotta, "Being an Omega, he naturally wanted to fulfill his biological wiring, and the only way to do that would be bonding to a proper Alpha."
She then turned back to Torn, giving him another warning look. Jak didn't miss the way his eyes cast downward slightly before meeting her again.
The Countess continued, "I would say he's happier than he's ever been, right Torn?"
"Yes...of course..." Torn bit out, barely containing his growing anger. As much as he wanted to give this woman a piece of his mind and tell the world how he really felt about all of this, he knew no good would come from it. Turning himself into a martyr would only proceed to get Jak hurt in the long run. The only thing that mattered right now, was getting through this damn interview and showing people exactly what they wanted to see...a happy royal couple.
His pride be damned.
The Countess smiled and turned back to Lotta, "It's the highest honor for any Omega to be mated to such a prestigious Alpha. No matter what some may think, it doesn't change the fact that Omegas need to fulfill their biological duties for society to function properly. This bonding was meant to be, and the military is no place for an Omega."
Jak barely managed to stifle a growl in his throat as he felt Torn's hand begin to tremble with barely contained anger...even as he still held him. He knew he should stay quiet...it was what Torn wanted him to do...but he couldn't take it any longer.
He refused to let this old bitch demean his mate like this...erasing all his achievements and simplifying his worth down to bartering goods.
Before he could chicken out, Jak suddenly cut off the Countess before she could continue and addressed Ms. Bellemore, "Actually, Miss Bellemore, we were going to wait until later to announce this, but Commander Torn's going to be joining Spargus's military after our honeymoon."
The room fell silent around them, and Jak feared that he may have made a mistake...but even so, there was no turning back now. He just kept his eyes on the camera as he boasted, "In fact, our current Commander has stated his intention to train Torn to eventually replace him."
He glanced around the room curiously and noticed Senator Arippa trying desperately to conceal a shit-eating grin behind his teacup. He saw the look of absolute horror slipping out from under the Countess's aloof expression.
Torn just stared at him...his expression seemingly asking, Where the hell are you going with this?
"Oh my goodness!" Lotta gasped as a huge smile nearly split her face in half, "That's a wonderful surprise! But isn't he a member of the royal family now? Is it possible for him to join the military?"
"Precisely!" the Countess interjected, a light growl lacing her voice as she tried maintaining her composure once more, "Aren't you concerned at all for your mate's safety?"
Jak raised a brow and gave a dismissive chuckle, "No offense Countess, but have you seen your grandson?" He motioned to Torn dramatically then laughed, "Pretty sure he can protect himself just fine. In fact, I got a story from our first week of courting about how he saved me and my friend from a marauder ambush. But, I think Torn would be better at telling the story." He turned to Torn and gave him a nod and smile, "Go ahead and tell 'em, Honey."
He quickly caught on to what Jak was doing. After flashing the kid an approving smirk, he turned to face Lotta through the camera, "It's really not that interesting. We were out at the Oasis with Jak's friend, Keira, and Marauders attacked us. Thankfully we took some weapons with us and we were able to fend them off. Honestly, Jak was just as impressive." He wasn't used to talking about himself. While it felt good to humble-brag about his most recent heroism, it was new territory that he hadn't really prepared for.
"Oh please! You're being modest, babe." Jak cut in, wrapping an arm around Torn's waist as he purred, "Torn took out two Marauder assault vehicles by himself! Even after one of them tried to haul him away, he managed to dispatch them easily before they even left the perimeter!"
Lotta's eyes widened in amazement, turning her attention back to Torn, "Amazing! I've heard stories about some pretty amazing missions you led, Commander, but it's always hard to tell which ones are embellished and which are genuine."
Torn gave a small smile as the camera focused on him and replied, "Well, I guess I'll have to share some of my favorites with you another time." He leaned into Jak's side, completing the picture of a loving couple.
He would have to thank the kid later for the assist.
"I'll have to take you up on that offer!" Lotta mused excitedly.
Countess Reista gave another indignant barely-audible growl, though she still maintained her stoic, yet displeased expression, "And how exactly will this work when it comes time for him to provide you with an heir? I certainly hope you don't plan to have him fight Metal-Heads and Marauders while pregnant?"
Jak couldn't stop a small frown from forming, but he managed to maintain his civil tone, "Countess, when...and if...we decide to start a family, we'll be taking a modified maternity leave like every other expecting couple. Of course, we would still have to run Spargus, but paperwork isn't exactly physically taxing."
Before the Countess could open her mouth to retort, Jak continued, "And another thing, I don't know how things work in Haven," Jak began, his voice calm despite the small anxious tremble Torn could feel in the hand currently gripping his hip, "But in Spargus, the reigning monarch and their mate share equal responsibility in running things. By the time I become King, Torn will no doubt already be Commander of Spargus's military. We haven't decided which of the other duties he'll be in charge of, but thankfully we have time to figure it out." He tightened his grip around Torn's waist, "We're all so honored to have someone as experienced and talented as him."
Ok...he would have to give the kid a big thank you later.
Torn turned to his Grandmother. She locked eyes with him, a thousand threats pooled in them, but strangely...and for once in his life...Torn didn't feel intimidated.
And he could say what he really thought about all of this.
"Miss Bellemore," He began as he turned back to the camera, "I just want to set the record straight for the people and my soldiers. Stepping down...it's probably the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I..." He felt his throat get tight, "I love Haven. I loved my position and I felt like I was doing a pretty damn good job. But, the council requested a bond for the treaty to work, so under my reigning Alpha's suggestion, I made a sacrifice."
"Sacrifice?" Miss Bellemore tilted her head, "We were told you volunteered?"
"That's not entirely accurate. I wasn't given much of a choice..." He paused for a moment then felt something warm begin to grow in his chest, "But...I gotta admit...it turned out alright in the end. Commander Tess is a great successor, and I know she's going to outdo me in every way." He turned to Jak and put on a loving face that was secretly half-genuine, "Plus, my Alpha is wonderful, and as you can already see, he lets me express myself freely. He's a model of what every Alpha should be. And we're going to do some pretty amazing things for both Spargus and Haven."
To seal the deal and really grind his heel in his grandmother's foot, he leaned down and gave Jak a small kiss on the lips.
Lotta clapped and giggled excitedly on the screen, but Jak couldn't focus on anything but Torn's lips pressed against his own. It was gentle and over far too soon, but Jak felt the message Torn was trying to get across to him. When they broke away, Torn's eyes held thankfulness and pride in them.
Jak smiled back...knowing that Torn approved, and send a silent message back to him.
My pleasure.
The rest of the interview went by quite smoothly all things considered.
Lotta spent her next few questions asking about their mated life, and Jak let Torn answer for them on every question...only jumping in to support Torn when needed or add his thoughts. Torn embellished a bit for the sake of appearances, and even though Jak took a back seat, Torn tried to make it seem like he still called the shots.
Haven wasn't ready for the kid's courage to express his sexual and romantic desires without fear of being seen as less of an Alpha.
Torn was actually surprised to see that his Grandmother wasn't as angry as he expected. Though she certainly didn't look pleased, she seemed to be more disappointed than enraged by the way they spoke during the interview.
Soon, Miss Bellemore announced a commercial break and the green light flipped back to blue. Miss Bellemore gave them a happy grin, "Well! That's a wrap for you two! The rest of the interview is going to be about Council matters, so you're free to go. Thank you so much for your time, your majesties!"
Torn gave a nod and Jak waved as Miss Bellemore stood and walked off camera. When the screen went black a timer popped up, letting them know when the break would be over.
The Countess gave an exaggerated sigh and mused, "Well, that was...certainly interesting. If not, a bit uncouth. Still, thank you for indulging me and showing up...even though you ignored my request of silence." She reached down and poured herself a fresh cup of tea from a pot on the table's center.
Torn raised a brow, "That's it then?"
Arippa gave a huff of laughter, "Yes, have they sufficiently undermined you, Grandmother?"
The Countess shot a glare at Arippa as she hissed in a clipped tone, "You flatter them far too much, Senator. It takes far more than that to sully my reputation." She then turned to the couple on the couch, "Now, I believe Torn wanted to give you a tour of the Manor. Feel free to explore as you wish. This interview shouldn't last longer than an hour, and I have an important matter to discuss with you both. Return swiftly."
With a grimace, Torn stood and jerked his head toward the door, "You heard the woman, lets go Jak." Jak didn't need to be told twice as he practically leapt from the couch and followed Torn outside. As the parlor door closed behind him, Jak felt Torn suddenly grab his arm and hurriedly drag him down the hall. He allowed Torn to pull him into a nook, and just as he was about to speak, the taller Omega pushed him back against the wall.
Jak stared up at Torn as the other man looked down at him. He felt his cheeks heat from the closeness, and that heat spread when Torn leaned down and pressed their mouths together.
Jak felt goosebumps blossom all over as Torn insistently moved against him, slotting their mouths in an open kiss, much deeper than the one at the restaurant. He wasn't sure if he was allowed to kiss back, so he just stayed still and melted into the firm kiss. Torn slid a hand around the back of his neck, pulling Jak's lips a bit closer.
Finally, Torn pulled away just as Jak's lungs began begging for air. Jak let out a shaky breath as Torn remained a few inches away, but kept the hand on his neck, thumb gently scraping across his nape.
"Thank you." Torn whispered...his voice gentle with the slight gravely undertone that made Jak shiver.
Jak blinked when the fog in his head cleared a bit, "F-for what?"
Torn tsked softly then grumbled, "You know what. Use your brain." He leaned back and pressed another, chaste kiss against the younger man's reddening mouth, making him whine softly as he tried to deepen it. Torn pulled away teasingly, causing Jak to wrap his arms around his waist to keep him from running. Torn gave his young Alpha a half-scolding glare and lowly growled, "Stop being greedy. Be thankful with what you got."
"Torn..." Jak drew out his name in a pleading whine, "C'mon, just...one more?" He pulled Torn's body closer as he stared up at Torn with a needy pout on his face.
Torn refused to admit how cute it was.
He stared down at his pouting, bratty Alpha with mild disdain and barely concealed fondness. Jak helped him out way more than he realized...and way more than Torn would ever admit to the little shit.
What the hell...maybe he deserved a little more.
"Greedy little brat..." Torn sighed, though he couldn't help but smile, "Fine, one more, then we get going." He wrapped his free hand around the back of Jak's head and threaded his fingers through his semi-long blonde hair, gently fisting his dark-green roots as his other hand slid around from the back of his neck to grip his chin.
Torn stroked his thumb over the well-groomed goatee before leaning down and capturing the Prince's lips again in another open-mouth kiss.
This time, Jak was a bit more involved, eagerly moving his head to slot their mouths together a bit more easily. He gave the reigns to Torn, allowing him to control how deep and involved the kiss got, but he attempted to encourage Torn further by moving his hands from Torn's back to his sides, gripping and massaging his hips as he heard the older man start to purr.
Torn kept one hand gripping Jak's hair while the other moved from the other man's chin to his neck, pressing possessively against his throat...just to remind him who's really in charge here, before sliding against his mating gland. Torn pressed his thumb down hard against the mark, making Jak emit a high growl. Torn slid his tongue teasingly against Jak's bottom lip, not coaxing him into a tongue battle, but rather keeping him on edge...daring him to try and gain dominance.
Instead of taking the bait, Jak dug his thumbs into Torn's hip bones once before slowly sliding them up his gently curved sides, stopping just under his ribs as he slid them forward, stroking along Torn's abdominals, through steering clear of his far more sensitive chest area.
To Torn's surprise, he actually enjoyed Jak's touch. He appreciated how innocently he explored his less intimate areas, instead of taking this opportunity to cop a feel...
...even if Torn felt himself dampen under his clothes from the contact and anticipation of more.
Which is why he finally pulled away from Jak after biting down on his bottom lip...not hard enough to break skin, but enough to leave a mark.
He nearly lost control when Jak released a loud moan.
He completely pulled away...though it felt more like ripping himself away.
Jak stayed where he was, panting gently as he gazed hard at Torn, eyes dark with clear affection and want.
Torn realized he may have gotten carried away, "Satisfied?"
Jak nodded, a silly smile growing on his face, "Very...thank you."
"Yeah...well..." Torn looked away awkwardly, his ears turning a light pink, which Jak immediately, and gleefully, noticed. Torn coughed and tried quickly to change the subject, "What do you wanna see first? Ballroom or gardens?"
The tour gave Jak a lot more insight into Torn's past than he could ever have hoped for. The gardens were exotic and peaceful, and the grand ballroom was...well, grand. Torn seemed to have a story for every room and hall. Most of them were about him and his brothers, but Jak noticed that Torn never really mentioned his parents.
As much as he wanted to ask Torn about them, he didn't want the other man to put his walls back up, so he kept his queries to himself.
By the time they made it back to the parlor, the interview was long over. As soon as they entered, Countess Reista addressed them, "Torn, I'm sure you recall my yearly Summer Galla?"
Torn froze.
Oh, he certainly recalled it...but not fondly, "What about it?"
"I've invited you and Prince Mar to stay in the Manor on the last night of your trip. The Galla is another wonderful opportunity to expose the Prince to Haven's high society." The Countess stood and walked over to them, looking down at Jak, "The Galla is only a few days away. I suggest you have Torn teach you some basic Haven customs."
With that, she breezed past them giving her closing thoughts, "I regret not being able to linger for longer, but I'm needed in my study." Before leaving the room, she turned back and addressed all of them, "Mia will see you out."
The door closed and as they heard the footsteps grow more distant, Senator Arippa let out a boisterous laugh that he no doubt held in for hours, "Oh Precursors! Now THAT was worth coming over for! Did you see her face when you talked about joining Spargus's military?!" He gave Jak a cheeky grin, "You're a sly one, Jak!"
Jak sheepishly smiled as he and Torn moved back to the couch, "Yeah well...I just thought the world should know that the military is exactly the right place for my Omega."
Torn balked in mild irritation, "Since when am I your Omega?"
Jak returned the statement with a playful grin, "Since you started referring to me as your Alpha."
"He's got you there, Torn." Arippa mused, sitting back against the couch, "A bond goes both ways. Right, love?" He placed a hand on Captain Eryn's knee, jolting the other man out of whatever trance he was in and bringing a blush to his cheeks, "Uh...right!"
"Speaking of," Torn started as he reached a hand over to finally greet Eryn, "Been a while, Captain."
Eryn immediately reached over and grasped Torn's hand in a friendly shake, "Likewise, Commander. It's good to see you again, and I'm sorry I couldn't meet with you at the bar...things have been kinda crazy lately."
When he let go, Torn nodded in understanding, "Yeah, Tess gave me a summary. Sounds like you guys have your work cut out for you."
"It was a long time coming, Commander." Eryn sadly admitted, "People are sick and tired of being treated differently because of what they are...or who they love." He casually slid his hand into Arippa's as he sat back and comfortably slid closer to his mate...now that there weren't any disapproving eyes staring him down.
Jak smiled at the couple opposite of them. He didn't miss the affection in Arippa's eyes or the way Captain Eryn visibly relaxed when he was allowed to perform PDA with his mate. It only made the knowledge that they weren't formally recognized as a mated pair even more aggravating, "You know," He started without thinking, "you could get married in Spargus. We don't have these stupid restrictions on who your fated pair is like Haven-"
Jak flinched when Torn growled and smacked the back of his shoulder, "Is your brain to mouth filter broken, dumbass?!"
"It's fine, Torn." Arippa calmly replied before he addressed Jak, "We...considered it...but realized it wouldn't matter, because the moment we return to Haven our marital status would be null and void. And while I appreciate the offer, we want the city we were born and raised in to see us for who we are. I don't care if it takes me 50 years. I will marry this damned fool in this damn city." He punctuated his statement by pulling Eryn's hand to his mouth and giving his knuckles a kiss.
It was a good answer that Jak could respect, "I get it...well, I really hope it works out for you guys. You're a good looking couple."
Arippa let out another surprised laugh, "See? What did I tell you Eryn? Isn't he just the cutest little thing?"
Jak flushed in embarrassment and frowned, "I'm not cute!"
"Yes you are, sweetheart." Torn replied teasingly.
"Whose side are you on?!" Jak squawked as Torn couldn't stifle a laugh.
Arippa glanced between the royal couple and smiled at the obvious affection blooming in their relationship. After the room calmed down a bit, he took on a more melancholic expression again and mused quietly, "You know...our parents would've loved you, Jak. You'd have been like another son to them."
Jak paused and Torn winced as his face also took on a more somber expression.
"Um...what happened to them?" Jak cautiously asked.
"They're dead. End of story." Torn stated abruptly.
Arippa's face scrunched up sadly, "He'll find out eventually, Torn. Why not just tell him now and get it out of the way?"
Torn didn't say anything for a moment, but eventually let out a frustrated sigh and said, "Our father got sick and died, and our mother died a week later from a broken heart. There. Now you know."
"Torn..." Arippa started gently.
"That's all he needs to know, so just fucking drop it!" Torn growled, immediately shutting Arippa down.
After a moment, Arippa closed his eyes and heaved a sigh, "Well, I believe that's enough excitement for the day." He uncrossed his legs and stood up, Eryn quickly stood as well. He moved over to Torn and seemed like he was about to hug him, but instead stopped himself and settled for placing a hand on Torn's shoulder, "I'll see you both again at the Galla." He then changed his gaze to Jak and gave him a sad smile, "Make sure you both get back to the palace safely."
Jak nodded and watched as Arippa and Eryn left the room...soon leaving him and Torn alone.
He turned to nervously face his mate, seeing how he was already shutting down his emotions. He gently placed a hand on Torn's shoulder, causing the other to look at him questioningly.
Jak just gave Torn a supportive squeeze and said, "You don't have to tell me anything. Not if you don't want to. But I'll be here for you when you need me. You know that right?"
Torn kept his eyes locked with Jak's for a moment before he turned towards the still lit fireplace. After a long pause, he spoke, "My Grandmother didn't approve of my father. She constantly bad-mouthed him...even after his death."
Jak perked up, but kept silent as Torn started opening up.
"My mother was her only child...the only surviving one, at least. I think Grandmother had like...6 miscarriages." Torn continued as he stared at the flames, "My mother, being an Alpha, was destined to marry another prestigious member of Haven's nobility. Instead, she fell for my father...a low-class male Omega."
"Your dad was an Omega? I thought Male Omegas were supposed to be rare." Jak didn't want to interrupt, but this was a question he really wanted answered.
"We are," Torn confirmed, "If we're born from a female omega, beta, or Alpha it's considered astronomically rare. Male Omegas, however, have a high likelihood to be born from other male Omegas...assuming you can impregnate them in the first place, that is. It's incredibly difficult."
Jak made a quiet, "Oh," before asking, "So...you were born from your dad?"
Torn nodded, "All three of us were born from him. According to my mom, they'd been trying to have a child for years before they finally got Arippa. After that, my dad got blessed with his litter...me and Tear."
"Wait, Male Omegas can have litters?" Jak's eyes went slightly wide.
"Litter...singular." Torn corrected, "If a male Omega can even have kids in the first place, it's been shown that they will only be able to produce one litter of two or three pups in their life."
"Wow...I uh...did not know that." Jak admitted. Then another thought crossed his mind. That meant...Torn would be able to have a litter? He shamefully allowed his eyes to travel down Torn's form to focus on his flat stomach. Jak flushed as he imagined what it would look like swollen with life, before he immediately chased those thoughts away. If Torn knew what he was thinking, he would be lucky to leave the manor with his dick intact.
Torn didn't seem to notice Jak leering as he continued his story, "The more you know, right? Anyway, my dad...he wasn't exactly healthy to begin with. After having Arippa, and then a litter, it left him in bad shape. He had a rare disease that got worse with time. Getting pregnant aggravated it...by the time Tear and I turned 12, he was completely wheelchair bound."
Ignoring the tightness in his throat, Torn finished his story, "He died in his sleep when I was 16...Mom was devastated. Alphas handle the deaths of their pairs badly...and she just...gave up. It didn't matter that she had three pups who still needed her. She lost the will to live." He felt anger growing amongst the sadness, "She was our reigning Alpha...and even though Countess Reista controlled a great deal of our upbringing, she had no say in what we decided to do with our lives once we matured. That includes who we decide to bond with. If my mother hadn't selfishly given up-" He stopped himself, turning briefly to Jak.
...he wouldn't have met Jak...
He kept that thought to himself, "Anyway...it doesn't matter now. You can't change the past...only learn from it. I'm not making the same mistake she did. When the time comes to provide an heir...I plan to be here for the little bastard...no matter what."
The silence that followed was palpable.
Neither of them said anything for a long time.
Just as Torn was about to suggest they get going, Jak broke the silence.
"It was my fault..." He mumbled quietly. He continued before Torn could question what he meant, "Mom took me out to look for artifacts. She told me not to wander off...but I was a stupid 12 year old. I saw something sparkling and before I realized how far away I was, I was lost. I called out for my mom...that's how the marauders found us." He drew his knees up to his chest, wrapping his arms around them loosely.
"If I hadn't wandered away...if I just listened to her...she wouldn't have..." His voice broke and he had to pause to stifle his emotions. He felt Torn shift beside him, moving closer, but not touching him. It gave Jak enough courage to continue, "They only gave us enough food for one person to survive on...and they didn't think she would give it all to me. They wanted her for their experiments...not me. I don't even know why t hey bothered keeping me alive...maybe as collateral? Anyway, she didn't do what they expected, and died of starvation." He let out a shaky breath as he whispered, "I...I can still smell her...her scent soured every day, but it still held some remnant of her. The only thing that kept me sane was curling up against her lifeless body...and honestly...it was doing the opposite in the long run."
He wrapped his arms tighter around his legs, "I was fucking 12...when I was rescued, I didn't speak for 5 years. When I wasn't catatonic, I was turning dark and attacking the doctors. My father...I know he still loves me...but I can see it in his eyes...he's afraid of me...hell, I bet he blames me too." He couldn't stop his voice from warbling at this point, "He didn't mean it...but it still hurts that my own father can't stand to be near me or even look at me longer than a few minutes at a time. When you mentioned how scent-starved I am, you have no idea how right you were. I didn't just lose my mom that day..." He couldn't stop the tears from falling either at this point.
Not even daring to look at Torn, Jak nearly sobbed, "I promise, I won't do that to our kids! I'll never be scared of them, or stop being near them."
Jak froze when he felt Torn pull him onto his lap and wrap his strong arms around him. The older Omega just held him there, pressing Jak's face against his chest as he squeezed him gently.
"T-Torn?"
"Shh." Torn whispered, "You said enough. Just breathe." He lowered his head to place a kiss on top of Jak's head before resting his cheek on him.
Jak nuzzled against Torn's chest, his cheek pressed against his warm and sweet-smelling body.
It didn't matter at this point how weak he looked right now. Jak was being held by his Omega...
...and that was all he needed.
