Sheets of rain obscured the bulk of a man as he slipped into the darkened car that pulled alongside him. He waited in silence while the car failed to move any further. Streetlights cast the faintest of eerie shadows over the car's passenger; revealing nothing in the subtle shift of the drops rolling down the glass to indicate the thoughts or mood to be expected from the man staring out the window. Moran allowed the barest hint of a sigh to escape his narrowed lips. He hated when Jim got like this, he never knew what to prepare for, well for that matter he didn't know what to prepare for on any given day with Moriarty. The breath of a sigh was enough to stir his companion out of his thoughts however, "Impatient today Sebastian?" Terrific, his formal name was never the best sign, "No sir, just a bit chilled from the rain. Wouldn't mind giving you my report and then rounding up a hot toddy, sir." Moriarty stared at him for an intense moment, before huffing a soft chuckle and waving one hand absently, "Go ahead Sebastian. I don't think it can make today any better or worse."
Moran took a deep breath and began. "We have still been unable to uncover any sign of Watson, sir. He's simply vanished. Our strongest lead was his army connection with Murray but we have lost contact with the team that was following him. His unit has now been deployed as well, so even if Watson was in touch, Murray is not anywhere he could reach him. Every other lead we have tried has dried up or been a dead-end. I confess sir, even with our connections and resources, I simply don't know what to do next." He looked to his employer hesitantly after this less than encouraging report.
Jim sighed to himself then placed him palm along Sebastian's cheek a moment before slapping it firmly, just once. "That's why you have me to do all the thinking dear." The barest smile flickered across his lips before they narrowed into a grim line once more. "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. If his own Alpha couldn't track him down after dear brother sent him away then what more can we be expected to find?" He leaned back in his seat and resumed gazing out of the window, the stroke of his hand smoothing along a firm jaw and two fingers over his temple belying his ongoing thought process. After a few moments he seemed to reach a conclusion, turning cold eyes toward Moran as he spoke, "We're just going to have to wait for someone to slip up. They'll get lax at some point. And when one of them makes a mistake…..that's when I will have that Omega in my hands again. And then I will make certain that Sherlock Holmes suffers."
The damp cold of the rain was no competition for the shiver Moran got from his boss's words, no amount of hot toddies could chase away this chill.
{*} {*} {*}
Arriving back in England should have made John happy. However, he still couldn't see Sherlock or let him know about their child because Moriarty was still at large. As if that were not enough of a reason for his sadness, nature seemed to conspire against him as well and arriving at night during a downpour had him on edge. He found himself unconsciously cupping his abdomen and carefully scanning his surroundings as he descended the steps to meet Mycroft inside the closed hanger for the private jet. At least he got to keep his gun at his back for this trip. Reaching the SUV and his waiting brother-in-law, John handed his duffel bag off to the driver. He nodded sharply as he spoke, "Mycroft. Not quite your usual transport."
Mycroft's eyebrow raised only a fraction at the greeting, taking in the now obvious pregnancy, before replying. "And it is for just that reason I have selected it. Moriarty's people are quite accustomed to my black sedans and will not think to look too closely at an SUV driving into the country. A decoy sedan will drive back into London keeping up the appearance that I have met some dignitary on arrival here and you and I will travel on to the Holmes estate."
John nodded along with Mycroft's plans, "Sound reasoning as always, Mycroft. News?"
"I believe I would prefer to cover that in the safety of the vehicle. If you are ready, we can depart." He indicated the open door for John and waited. John had been to the bathroom before leaving the plane so he made no further comment as he took his seat inside the SUV.
Moments later found them on the road toward the country retreat of the Holmes family, John's new home for the coming months. It had never been his preference for keeping the baby and himself safe, rather it was a concession he made to Mycroft during planning. This was the Plan B if John's original plan of hiding and managing on his own didn't work out or became too great a risk; which as it turned out, it had. Now his fate was in the hands of his brother and mother-in-law who, while now his family, were still practically strangers to him. Having his decisions made for him nagged at the soldier even as the Omega seemed to welcome it and that just annoyed John further. Still he had agreed, he was a practical man and the baby must be kept safe. For that to happen, John would endure anything. They rode in silence for a bit before John finally asked the question most nagging him, "How is he?"
Mycroft could hear the wistfulness in John's voice, speaking far more frankly and kindly than John has ever heard he replied. "He misses you terribly. He buries himself in work so he will think about it less but it's always there. He is giving Mrs. Hudson and I fits trying to get him to take care of himself of course. He has stopped asking me to recall you home, but the resolution of this situation can not come fast enough, for either of you I imagine." Reaching underneath the seat he pulled out a small box and slid it towards John. "I did foresee the need for….some assistance."
John can not help the puzzled expression on his face as he opens the box. Inside he finds two sleep shirts and two scarves, all presumably Sherlock's, and each wrapped in a sealed plastic bag to retain the scent. John swallowed thickly against the desperate urge to smother himself in the scent held within those bags but that was too personal and intimate a thing to do in front of Mycroft. John found himself startled and a bit overwhelmed by the forethought of the normally stoic man beside him. Gently placing the lid back on the box, John held it close in his lap, blinking back the tear that threatened to escape his eye. "Thank you Mycroft. The thought is very much appreciated," he managed softly after a moment.
Mycroft lowered his head in acknowledgement answering just as softly, "You're most welcome John. Anything I can do to help." Suspecting that John needed a few moments he remained quiet as they drove on through the rain.
John let the rain lull him to a state of calm, until he was almost ready to fall asleep before he remembered he was not finished with his questions for Mycroft. "Moriarty?!" he blurted out suddenly, "Uhm...any news on Moriarty? Any progress? How is Sherlock coping with Moriarty?"
Mycroft couldn't hide the small furrow in his brow as he answered John, "Moriarty has taken great delight in attempting to torment Sherlock even without you present, baiting Sherlock via text messages or setting up rendezvous that prove to be smoke screens, sending him running all over London for no reason. It is immature and childish behavior on the man's part. I suspect he is having his own version of a tantrum since he can't get his hands on you and truly torture Sherlock."
John didn't hide the grimace when he heard how Moriarty was yanking Sherlock's strings, one giant game of cat and mouse going on it seemed. "And Sherlock? How is he doing with all that?"
Mycroft spared John a small smile, "Well he cost me quite a bit in new phones the first month you were away, not to mention one vase and an antique table, all victims of the Alpha's wrath. However he seems to be getting a handle on it this month. The last few things Moriarty has sent he has looked over dispassionately and resumed whatever he was working on. Coming to terms with his Alpha nature at last perhaps." Mycroft trailed off, contemplating the changes in his brother of late until a soft snore from the man beside him drew his attention. It had also woke John from his doze and now he sat up straight looking uncomfortable.
"Uhm...sorry Mycroft. That was rude of me," John apologized.
Mycroft quickly put him at his ease, "John it's been a long trip and we still have over an hour to drive. You and the baby need rest so don't try to keep yourself up on my account. Get some sleep. We will have a late dinner when we arrive and then you can get a hot bath and settle in for a good night's sleep. I will be there to introduce you and show you around so no need to worry." Seeing John still hesitating he encouraged further, "Rest John, please? It will make the trip go faster anyway" John thought a minute before nodding sharply, he at least knew he was safe and could sleep without fear. Rolling his jacket up he shoved it under his head and leaned against the window, quickly falling into a thankfully dreamless sleep. Mycroft occupied himself with his phone and his thoughts. He was thankful to have John once more where he could keep an eye on him and actively protect him and the baby, as well as get some more appropriate pre-natal care for John. The Holmes estate was the most secured place Mycroft had access and control over, his mother lived there alone after all, so it was quite a relief to be taking John there for the next leg of the pregnancy. He would not have previously thought that such things could matter to him, but John's pregnancy seemed to have awakened the care-taking and protective instincts of the family Alpha that he had practically ignored for many years save for his own mother and Sherlock, the former did not need them and the latter had scoffed at them until recently. His own Alpha almost came close to acknowledging that having his own Omega might be nice, but Mycroft contented himself with taking care of John for Sherlock's sake and gave no further thought to an Omega of his own.
Mycroft woke John just after midnight, "We've arrived." The ongoing rain left them rushing under the cover of the portico, giving John little to no impression of the manor in the dark other than size. And it was very big. John had met Mummy Holmes after the bonding of course but it was in London at Mycroft's townhouse. Sherlock of course never returned home unless forced by Mycroft, so John had not been to the ancestral home of the Holmes until this moment and was instantly intimidated by the size, wondering what exactly he had agreed to after all. Mycroft could sense his mood however, "Don't worry. It will feel like home in no time. Mummy doesn't stand on ceremony unless there is a big dinner or such going on. Come along." John's bag was dispatched with the driver or some other servant so he followed Mycroft into the darkened house. Only a few lights were on to guide them once they entered, Mycroft answering the unspoken question easily, "Mummy will have already retired and it can be quite expensive to power the whole place for no reason. We were expected so a few lights were left on. Mummy has always been most practical and conscientious of waste."
John could easily see the influence of Mummy Holmes in the man Mycroft was, but had trouble seeing it at all in his mate. He chuckled at what "Mummy" would think if she spent a day in 221B with Sherlock.
Mycroft led them through to a large kitchen, directing John to a table in the nook at one end of the kitchen or a stool at the large island as he preferred. John took the stool and sat to watch Mycroft. Surprisingly he navigated the kitchen easily, setting the kettle for tea and moving a pot on the stove to an eye to begin heating before cutting some thick slices of what appeared to be homemade bread. John could hardly believe that Mycroft Holmes was preparing dinner for him….well reheating dinner but still it was surreal. When Mycroft caught John's bemused expression, he smirked himself in understanding. "Our mother is an Omega, who had to raise two Alpha sons nearly alone after our father died. We were taught from an early age how to take care of an omega properly, both as gentlemen and as Alphas. I can only apologize if my brother shirks his responsibilities in any way."
John started to bristle at the comment but knew Mycroft meant well. "I wouldn't say he shirks them, no...he normally takes care of me just fine, the same way I take care of him. I would say he takes care of me in a way that works for us since we are in no way your usual bonded couple." John was surprised when Mycroft laughed out loud.
"Well I always said you were loyal. But you are right, you and Sherlock are most unique. Most Alphas wouldn't drag their Omegas into danger every chance they got and most Omegas wouldn't kill readily either." The humor shifted as Mycroft's tone became more serious, "However you are both perfect for each other. Call it serendipity or destiny but my brother would have remained incomplete without you, as I suspect you would be without him as well. True matches are so rare but my brother has been most fortunate to find his own….in you John. And now we are to have the added blessing of a new generation of Holmes. I can assure you that nothing in this world will be more cherished than your child."
John did not know what to say in the face of this unaccustomed….sentiment, from the normally reserved man but finally settled for gratitude. "Thank you Mycroft. I….I appreciate that."
Mycroft nodded, "Not at all John, high time I said it as it is." That seemed to be the end of Mycroft's exploration of emotions for tonight. The taciturn man returned to the stove and before long John was presented with a perfect cup of tea, a hearty stew for the rainy night and thick slices of buttered bread. It was not at all the kind of meal he would have expected in this grand house and it's massive kitchen but it was delicious, homey, and very comforting to John. They ate in relative silence until John was quite full and content. He helped Mycroft clear up the mess, before they turned off the lights and Mycroft led the way up the back stairs to the bedrooms. John was still struggling with the thought that the house even had a back stairway when Mycroft stopped before a door. "This is Sherlock's room. I thought it may retain enough residual scent to be helpful as well as photos and such. If you find that it is too awkward please let me know, there are plenty of other rooms you can use." John assured him that this room should be fine. "Well I shall leave you to get settled in. Mummy doesn't rise terribly early, breakfast is usually somewhere between seven and eight. But I assure you we will not hold it against you if you oversleep, it is quite late now. Good-night John"
John looked at his watch and found that it was after one, smiling up at Mycroft's knowing gaze. "Well," he chuckled, "I won't make any promises but I shall do my best. Good-night to you as well Mycroft." Mycroft gave a small nod and then headed down the hall only to stop at what he heard next. "Well come along Elizabeth Jordan Holmes, how about you and dad get ready for bed?" Catching Mycroft looking as if his eyebrows might climb off of his face John sheepishly spoke, "I...uh….I don't know yet you know? So I just keep trying things out. I mean at least I get to carry a part of Sherlock with me…..the baby has been my company…..when I am alone." He shrugged finally, unable to explain his behavior any further. Mycroft seemed to understand somehow, smiling softly as he replied, "Indeed John, indeed. Good-night to you….and Elizabeth as well." It was John's turn to nod as he ducked into the dark room before he could embarrass himself any more.
He rummaged around until he found the light switch on the wall behind him. The room was at once as familiar as Sherlock himself while being different just by way of encompassing his childhood. Too tired to focus on the knickknacks and details of the room, John quickly took in the large bed, the chaise and chairs in front of a large fireplace, a wardrobe and a trunk at the end of the bed where his duffel and the box from Mycroft sat waiting. He truly was tired and wanted nothing more than to curl up in Sherlock's bed with one of the fresh shirts on, a scarf at his face, and sleep for days. The clean-up and extraction had been hurried and stressful besides the fact he hated saying good-bye to Marco, Elena, and Bill. Deciding he would save his exploring for later, John crossed to the bed. He turned on the small lamp and returned to turn off the big lights before retrieving his toiletries from the bag and heading towards the door to the left of the bed. The bathroom sported a large tub that John dearly wanted to soak in but he limited himself to a good hot shower instead. He dried quickly, slipping on his briefs before brushing his teeth and returning to the bed. He pulled out one shirt and one scarf, inhaling the scent deeply as he opened the pack then quickly slipped the shirt on. In short order he was cocooned in the comfy bed with Sherlock's scent surrounding him. He shut off the lamp and slept, dreaming of Sherlock and babies with dark hair.
Morning found him actually waking normally as the change in time zones worked in his favor. He tucked Sherlock's shirt and scarf back into a bag and placed it under his pillow to retain as much scent as possible before he showered and dressed for the day. He found his way to the dining room just before eight and not far behind Mycroft and Mummy Holmes. Mrs. Holmes was out of her chair the instant she saw John in the doorway.
"John! I'm so happy to have you here my dear!" Mummy Holmes enthused as she wrapped John in a pretty convincing bear hug for the diminutive older lady. "Did you sleep well," she chattered away without waiting for John to answer as she drug him along to a seat at the table. "And my, just look at you and that baby John! I could hardly believe it when Mycroft told me. To have one of my sons successfully bonded and now the blessing of grandchildren on the way. It is almost too much happiness for an old lady to bear! Of course I do hold out some hope for Mycroft you know but my boys can be so difficult." She reached over patting Mycroft's cheek before sighing in contentment and clapping her hands together as her torrent of words seemed to reach its crescendo. John could swear he saw Mycroft roll his eyes at his mother while concealing a smile. "I am beyond happy John! The veritable epitome of bliss, that's me!" She sighed once more and looked expectantly at John seeming confused as to why he wasn't speaking.
John was uncertain if she was truly finished and there was an awkward pause before he replied. "Thank you Mrs. Holmes for agreeing to have me here, and for keeping it a secret for now, considering the situation. I deeply appreciate it and will make it up to Sherlock, and yourself, in every way I know how once the baby is safe from Moriarty. And yes, I did sleep very well, thank you." John smiled brightly at the woman with whom he would be sharing his life over the next few months.
Mrs. Holmes reached over and patted John's hand sympathetically, "You are more than welcome John. This separation is not ideal but necessary I believe, and we are your family now. We will keep you and the baby safe at all costs. And please John, you really should call me Celeste, we can't go around being formal all the time. Now please tuck in to whatever you would like. Is the morning sickness troubling you any longer? Well just never you mind, eat whatever you feel like and if you need something else just let me know and we will get it for you. After breakfast we will show you around the house and grounds, make sure you are familiar with all the staff as well as the security measures in place here." John gathered an answer was not immediately required again as he saw to his breakfast. A warm carafe of coffee was already on the table so John rose to serve his plate from the small buffet along one wall, returning to the table just as Mrs. Holmes was questioning Mycroft. "How shall we conduct pre-natal care? Do you have a plan in place for that?" John himself looked to Mycroft for an answer. He had done well but knew he should see his doctor more, at least have an ultrasound at some point.
Mycroft met John's eyes as he answered his mother, "Doctor Johnson is most anxious to help John through this pregnancy. He is trusted and understands the need for security. He has agreed to keep all records of John's case only on paper and with him at all times, any lab work required will be conducted through my office and will again be off the record as it were. He will be here on Saturday to examine you and the baby. We are hoping to arrange for him to bring a portable ultrasound, however it may be short notice for this week. If we can't for Saturday, then it will be arranged in time for his visit next month."
John merely nodded, happy that he would be able to see Doctor Johnson again. He secretly hoped the ultrasound would be available. He hadn't been able to see his baby yet and he was almost far enough along to possibly determine the sex of the baby. He smirked as he thought he could at least eliminate half of the names he had been trying out then. Breakfast turned to general topics of conversation, Mycroft and Mummy getting caught up in a conversation about some upkeep on the estate and John let his own thoughts wander as he took in the grand house around him. The dining room itself was a fine example of old world elegance with its wood paneling, Persian rug, and heavy wood furnishings either richly upholstered or polished to a high gloss. However John found his attention drawn to the large French style windows behind Mycroft and an older gentleman out on the lawn. Judging by his rough country clothes, John would say he was a gardener or groundskeeper of some kind but he was not engaged in any kind of work at the moment. John watched the man moving slowly but fluidly through pose after pose of what looked like a dance. He watched intently for long minutes before realizing the man was practicing Tai Chi. The movement was almost hypnotic and John would have gladly continued to watch, but it appeared his companions had finished their breakfast and conversation.
He followed them throughout the house; the soldier quickly learning the layout and exits as they went, while the Omega delighted in Mummy Holmes's stories of young Mycroft and Sherlock and their various misadventures in the house. Soon their small party spilled out onto the patio overlooking the manicured grounds. The colors were especially vibrant following the heavy rain and John breathed deeply of the air laced with the scent of hundreds of flowers and freshly mown grass. Compared to the muggy fugue of London, it was a smell he could easily become accustomed too. John had just caught sight of the older man coming around from the side of the house when Mycroft himself made a beeline for the man. He looked towards Mrs. Holmes in obvious curiosity but she only shrugged and followed Mycroft with John bringing up the rear. The two men soon met each other halfway across the lawn. John saw Mycroft extend his hand formally and could just make out their conversation as he caught up to the men.
Mycroft's voice spoke with a bit less authority than usual, "Sir Cartwright."
The older gentleman looked him over carefully, ignoring the proffered hand, before he replied cooly, "Young Master Holmes."
John darted his eyes back and forth between the men, utterly confused, who would dare call Mycroft young master and be rude enough to refuse to take Mycroft's hand. Surely someone who didn't care to retain his position if he spoke to the Alpha of the house that way. A moment later he was simply speechless.
The older man had finally reached out grabbing Mycroft until the two men were clutching forearms wrist to elbow and pulled close together. The man clapped his free hand on Mycroft's shoulder, speaking far more warmly now. "Hello to ye lad! It has been a long time has it not?!"
John marveled at the broad smile Mycroft bestowed upon this man as he spoke. "Indeed it has Sir. I apologize for not greeting you much sooner but we arrived quite late last night. And I knew better than to interrupt your exercises this morning. It is such a pleasure to see you again."
"Dinna fash about it lad! Ye've greeted me now hav'n ye? Cor if you aren't a sight! Such a fine and proper man ye've made o ye'self! The pleasure'll be mine, and yer mother's o course."
John was trying to wrap his head around the incongruity of an apparent Scotsman, who dressed as a gardener, did Tai Chi on the lawn, and was treated not just with fondness but also a great deal of respect by Mycroft. The Iceman himself who was seldom nice to anyone. Before he succeeded in his task, Mrs. Holmes walked up next to Sir Cartwright, quickly receiving an arm wrapped around her waist and a kiss on the cheek. John knew his mouth fell open but couldn't seem to stop ogling as Mycroft smiled warmly at this man and his mother. It was Sir Cartwright who moved the conversation forward.
"And I see ye've brought us a new guest? Is he yours then?" the man indicated John's swollen belly as he addressed Mycroft.
John bristled at the apparent dismissal from the man who was obviously an Alpha as well, but Mycroft stepped in before John could unleash his ire on the man he had only just met.
"No Sir, he is not mine. I am sure mother has told you of Sherlock's bonding. This is Sherlock's Omega, Doctor John Watson, retired Captain of the Fifth Northumberland Fusiliers. And happily the bearer of the next generation."
John forced himself to remain silent and met the man's piercing gaze with his own fiery expression, while he was raked over from head to toe. He only felt this taken apart when Sherlock looked at him this way, but this strange Alpha made him feel naked before him while he seemed to search out John's soul. He was decidedly uncomfortable in the man's presence but refused to be intimidated. Neither Mycroft nor Mrs. Holmes intervened and John felt as if this was some important test they failed to mention, but at length the man seemed to be finished.
"Sherlock's ye say? `Well if Sherlock chose ye, and Mycroft accepts ye enough to do all of this for ye, then I'm figurin yer a most exceptional Omega at that." He at last stepped forward and offered his hand to John, "Alec Cartwright, at yer service. I've the dubious honor o bein the boy's Godfather, had a hand in raisin the both o them after Sieger passed. Tis a pleasure to meet the only Omega Sherlock has ever deemed worthy o his time."
John couldn't refuse the hand, much as he felt like he wanted to, shaking it as graciously as he could manage while he stumbled over his reply, "John Watson. You find me at a loss but the pleasure is all mine sir."
"Please call me Alec. And I spect we will smooth oer any issues ye may have in no time." He laughed freely but his eyes seemed to tell John they knew exactly what was going on.
The only problem was that John had no idea what was going on. He felt fidgety and anxious suddenly. For reasons he couldn't explain, he needed to get away from this strange Alpha. John's instincts about the man as a soldier were of a solid, capable, trustworthy man. He had to be, to have helped raise Mycroft and Sherlock while still retaining their respect. But John's Omega was itching to get away, impressions of foreign-Alpha-not family-not safe- were flashing rapidly across John's consciousness and he was starting to feel sick. Mycroft had become much more attuned to John while helping him and sensed the rising anxiety.
"John, perhaps you would like to go and lie down for a rest before lunch? You are looking a bit peaked," he offered casually.
John could only give him a grateful nod as he made his excuses and fled into the house before he truly was sick. He had detoured through the kitchen and was at the sink scrubbing his hand practically raw before he realized what he was doing. It was Mrs. Holmes who stopped him. Shushing him like a child she brushed his hair back from a clammy brow as she spoke, "It's okay John. It will pass. You've been separated from Sherlock too much and you need his scent or the scent of close family to feel secure. Alec has been a part of our family for a very long time but he is not of our blood. We would have been more careful with the introduction if we thought you would react so strongly. I'm sorry." John sighed in relief, at least there was an explanation. "Now come along and let me get you some salve for those hands. Then you can go to your room and let Sherlock's scent settle you, okay?" She was so kind and motherly, John had to wonder how she had ever dealt with her unusual offspring. Celeste laughed reading the thought on John's face, "Why John wherever do you think my boys got those skills?" John couldn't help but smile in return already much calmer in her presence.
They walked upstairs to Sherlock's old room and she left John sitting in one of the chairs while she retrieved the medication. As she gently rubbed his hand with the thick ointment John couldn't help but wonder how she knew. "Did this happen to you? When you lost your husband?"
"Not with Alec..no. He and Sieger had been best friends since childhood and of course he was the boy's Godfather so he was never a problem for me. I was far too used to him. But with other Alphas who were strange to me, yes this happened. It took a long time to be able to deal with other Alphas around me after that. For you it won't be so bad. You are in a protected environment with only certain Alphas. Alec will be more careful and you will be fine."
John still didn't understand why it just happened now, he had been with Marco and around Bill for the past two months without any trouble. Maybe it was cumulative he mused, deciding he would have to ask Doctor Johnson about it when he came.
Finished with her task Mrs. Holmes rose, "Rest a while John. You will feel better shortly and we will see you for lunch. Perhaps we will dine on the patio as it's such a beautiful day today, hm?"
John smiled, "That would be lovely Mrs. Holmes. Thank you for your kindness."
"Celeste, please John. I really must insist."
"Very well, Celeste, I thank you for your gracious hospitality and look forward to lunch on the patio."
With a final nod she was gone, leaving John alone. He soon had drawn the curtains, stripped to his briefs and donned Sherlock's shirt again. He thought he would just lie there a bit but soon fell fast asleep.
{*} {*} {*}
Alec was nowhere in sight at lunch and John felt that he was keeping Mycroft from visiting with his godfather and said as much as he apologized to his hosts for his reaction earlier. Mycroft reassured him, "Nothing to apologize for John, it was a perfectly understandable reaction. I should have been more aware of it before the meeting." He looked a bit guilty as he continued, "Still, no harm done John. Alec and I walked the grounds and had a lovely conversation while you were napping. And he had to go into the village on some business for the estate today so had already planned to lunch there. So you see, you're not causing any kind of disruption." He smiled softly and John soon returned it.
They ate in silence for a few moments before John's curiosity won out. "So how exactly did Alec become part of your family? He strikes me as a most unusual character among you Holmes." His companions chuckled loudly at that, before Celeste took up the question.
"Well you are right John, Alec is most unusual and has always been so. He comes from a family of small fortune in the Highlands of Scotland. He and Sieger met as boys at boarding school, as different as night and day they were, but soon thick as thieves and refusing to be parted almost all the time. Even holidays, they would insist on spending them with each other at one of the homes and, unless their parents had other plans, it was allowed. When they presented as Alphas their friendship still was not affected. I can tell you, dating was a challenge with two attractive Alphas competing for your time and attention."
John was taken aback, "You mean you dated both of them? I can not even imagine dealing with two virile Alphas at once, didn't they fight? I mean I just can't imagine how they could be around you together without some violence during those turbulent teen years!"
Celeste laughed merrily and Mycroft who knew the story well still smiled at his mother's joy. "No John. I did not really date them both. Sieger and I were a True match and knew it almost immediately. But Alec was always around so it seemed a bit like dating two boys at once. But they never fought at all, not over me. Alec simply accepted me as part of Sieger's life and that was that. Sieger and I often joked that we bonded with Alec right outside the door because we couldn't make him get any further away!"
John couldn't help but laugh heartily at the image she wove as she spoke. "Well then I suppose you were indeed fortunate in your husband's choice in friends!"
"Oh certainly I was John! Still am for that matter." Celeste paused a moment, a retrospective look on her face as she brought the past forward for John. "Things did change once college rolled around. Alec is incredibly smart but wasn't interested in academic pursuits. He wanted to get out and experience the world, to learn things first hand you know. So while Sieger went off to Oxford, Alec traveled the world but he was never out of touch. Even though I was happy with Sieger I often envied Alec and his adventures. You see John, in my day being raised to be a proper Omega meant I would stay here at the family estate and only see Sieger on weekends and holidays while he was still at school. I confess I thought it was archaic and frightfully dull at times but that was the way things were done."
John thought that must have been a very sheltered and lonely way to live, for once quite glad he was never raised to be a "proper" Omega. His parents did not mind that he was an Omega but fully supported his desires to do more with his life than bond and breed. Not for the first time was he grateful for their love and support. He thought they would have been proud of all he had accomplished but they would also have been very happy that he had found Sherlock at long last.
Celeste seemed to pick up the gist of John's thoughts as she spoke again. "I do rather envy you and your experiences John, something I should think you and Alec share in common…..travel and adventures." She smiled brightly at John before picking up her own train of thought, "We would receive the loveliest postcards, letters, pictures, and gifts from all over the world. But Alec was always here for important events, he was home for Sieger's graduation, for the births, and the christenings of both of the boys. The truest friend one could ever have."
John heard the slight quiver in her voice and raised his head to observe her moist eyes as she continued. He paid careful attention to what had to be a painful part of her tale.
"Alec met his own True match during his travels, a beautiful Asian Omega. A delightful woman who complimented him in every way. They bonded and lived with her family and soon were expecting their first child. We were so happy for them both. Plans were already in the works for us to be there for the birth ourselves, just as Alec was here for us. But it was not to be, an earthquake claimed the life of both mother and child. She was working in a building not properly built to code and it collapsed under the strain. So many died that day."
John swallowed thickly only able to imagine the loss too well. He had seen too many poorly built buildings collapse under the shockwave from an explosion…..too many people dying senselessly. Before he realized it he had clasped Celeste's small hand in his own, silently sharing her grief.
Celeste continued quietly, "We went over for the funeral so Alec would not be alone. He was so lost without them then, he stopped much of his travel after that and came home to us, hopefully to heal over time. When….when Sieger fell ill….he was….he was a godsend." She stopped her story abruptly before excusing herself and leaving the patio.
John found himself apologizing to Mycroft once more, "Shit!. I didn't mean to upset her. Should I go..uhm….apologize?"
"It is not that you asked John. It will be fine. Even now after so many years father's absence hits her hard at times. That is the way when a True Match is made and one partner is lost. Do not trouble yourself over it, it was nothing you did, she will grieve a while then be herself once more."
John nodded, contemplating this for a moment. Surviving Sherlock's Fall had been difficult enough. He knew he would find living without Sherlock nearly impossible since they had bonded. Giving himself a little shake to rid those thoughts from his mind he returned to his original question. "So what can you tell me about Alec? From your own standpoint? I have never seen you display so much deference, respect, or affection for anyone Mycroft. I am most curious as how such an unusual man has earned those boons from you. I mean I have never heard him mentioned before today."
Mycroft nodded with a small laugh, "Well that is true John, but when exactly have you known Sherlock or I to be forthcoming with personal information?" John conceded the point with a deep nod. "Mummy is right though, Alec was a godsend. Though we didn't see him often as children, we always knew about him and his adventures, every letter read eagerly at father's knee."
John could see a young boy's excitement reflected in Mycroft's eyes as he spoke about his godfather. He knew he had never seen so much raw emotion from the man and found himself most curious about what Sherlock would have to say and what he would see in those beloved eyes when he spoke. He listened eagerly to Mycroft.
"All kinds of exotic gifts were received for birthdays and Christmas to fire our young minds. He reached practically mythological status to us as boys. When he moved home and father let him stay here sort of like a caretaker/security guard we were thrilled beyond words. A chance to get to know the legend himself!" Mycroft chuckled remembering the simplicity and excitement of those days. "When father became ill and grew worse, Alec tried to keep us occupied as much as possible. He would play with us as boys but always spoke to us like men; teaching us everything from the Tai Chi he practices to sword fighting techniques to meditation and martial arts. He is the person who first instructed us in the "mind palace" memory technique and so many other means of distraction, both physical as well as mental."
John smiled trying his best to imagine a young Mycroft and even younger Sherlock under the care and instruction of the gregarious Scot. But Mycroft's tale turned serious as well after a moment.
"Father seemed to know when his time was near and charged Alec with watching over our family. Not just protecting us, but making sure we were looked after. He even asked Alec….to be there for mother….as an Alpha, when the time came that she would need him. And he fulfilled every last request my father made and then some. It never occurred to us to resent him or think of him as a replacement for father. He was simply part of our lives. He even dealt with both Sherlock and I at our rebellious worst and thankfully we came out the better men for it. There is no other person on earth on whom I bestow more gratitude and respect than Alec. And I am certain, if you could ever get Sherlock to admit to it, that he feels exactly the same way."
John felt heartily ashamed of his Omega's reaction in the light of all he had heard and hoped it would not be a permanent problem. And it seemed his soldier had made the correct assessment of Alec Cartwright and he was indeed someone John would like to know better. He now understood why it had felt like a test and was all the more grateful he had received some measure of approval from this man so important to his mate and his extended family. He interrupted his thoughts for one more question, "So Alec and your mother never bonded?"
Mycroft shook his head, "No, not that anyone would have opposed it, but they both had met and bonded with their own True match. There is no other bonding after that, it is simply not tolerable to the widowed mate. Mother and Alec have a long history and do share very real affection with each other beyond friendship now. They simply are not bonded to each other, or rather they are actually bound by mutual love instead of any kind of biology."
John replied with an indistinct, "Hmm," but otherwise made no further comment, returning instead to his own thoughts. He had spent so much of his life ignoring his Omega self that he had paid little attention to topics pertaining to either Alphas or Omegas when he was in school. As a result he knew very little about True matches, still he believed that was what he and Sherlock shared. He knew there had never been any Alpha to tempt him before Sherlock and there could never be another after him either, should he ever lose him. Thoughts of Moriarty flitted across his mind once more and he shivered involuntarily.
Lunch was long since finished and still they sat on the patio with another cup of tea, taking in the scenery and fresh air, when Mycroft spoke again. "I will be heading back to London this evening as there is an important meeting I must not miss in the morning. I shall return however with Doctor Johnson on Saturday. Will you be all right here in the meantime?"
John had enjoyed spending time with this more open and personal Mycroft but he couldn't keep him company indefinitely with a country to run. "I think I will be just fine Mycroft. Still settling in, but your mother has been most gracious and I will make an effort to eliminate any problem with Alec as well. I'll be happy to see you again on Saturday, as well as Doctor Johnson. I suspect I am well past due for a check-up now. And…." he hesitated trying to put into words what he wanted to say, "keep an eye on Sherlock for me….you know. I wouldn't be here if I wasn't convinced it is necessary but…..I miss him. Just make sure he's okay."
Mycroft, of course, understood all that John could not say. A warm hand gave John's shoulder a squeeze as Mycroft spoke, "Always John."
John nodded sharply, not really trusting himself to speak.
A throat cleared gruffly, "I shall go and make my preparations then. See you at dinner before I go."
John spent a long time with his thoughts that afternoon, musing over all he had learned about his extended family, finally rousing himself when it was time to get ready for dinner.
{*} {*} {*}
John awoke easily on Saturday morning, already excited for Doctor Johnson's visit even though he would not arrive until lunchtime. He washed well, made sure to take his vitamins, and joined Celeste for breakfast. He never seemed to catch Alec at breakfast as he always saw him out on the lawn doing his Tai Chi. He and Alec had kept a courteous distance these past few days, allowing the Omega to adjust, and it seemed to be working. Between what John had learned and what his own senses told him, Alec was safe and was to be trusted and the Omega had less and less of a reaction to him as the days went on. John still intended to ask Doctor Johnson about the reaction though.
After breakfast he headed out for his now daily walk. He loved the early morning air and how fresh everything appeared at this time of day. He was starting to feel so tired all the time that nature's renewal boosted his energy and spirits every morning. After his walk he retreated to the library, he figured he could kill the time before the doctor's arrival ensconced on the sofa with a good book.
"John?"
John swatted at his shoulder and the thing disturbing his nap before falling still again.
A louder "John," followed by a firm shake to his shoulder and John finally emerged from his slumber, looking a good bit disgruntled about it too.
"What?" he grumbled as he rubbed over his face. A familiar,warm laugh greeted him.
"And here I thought you would be happy to see me John. I suppose I can head right back to London then and leave you to your nap." Doctor Johnson enjoyed John's consternation as he roused himself quickly to greet him.
"I'm sorry Doctor Johnson. I intended to meet you when you arrived but I apparently dozed off reading again and no one bothered to wake me."
"It is quite alright John. I am glad to see you getting the rest you need. As for the staff, I suspect they too thought a pregnant Omega needed his rest. Would you care to take a short turn about the garden before lunch and you can fill me in on things since our first rushed visit?"
"Oh certainly, I have been so anxious to talk to you." At the instantly worried crease of the doctor's brow John corrected himself. "I don't mean anything is wrong! It seems like everything has gone normally and I have rested, eaten well, and taken my vitamins since that visit. There just have been some things Omega related that I did not quite expect that I wanted to discuss with you. That is all."
Doctor Johnson softened his expression at once and gestured for John to lead the way out. They walked slowly, Doctor Johnson actually not taking much of the garden in as he listened to John. And John told him everything; his travels, Bill, Marco and Elena, how much Elena's reassurances over normal pregnancy stuff had helped, the threat to he and his child as well as what he did about it. He finished up with his reaction to meeting Alec.
"I still don't understand why I would do that? I was with Bill and Marco for two months and never had a bit of trouble. Can you explain it?"
Doctor Johnson looked John over carefully before replying with another question. "I might be able to answer that in a moment, but tell me about Sherlock? What is going on with the two of you?"
John shrugged, "Nothing is going on. I contact him each week to let him know I am well. He still does not know where I really am nor anything about the pregnancy. The separation is hard enough without him knowing that while he has to focus on Moriarty."
Doctor Johnson nodded sagely, "And did you not think John, after all the work the two of you had to do to get your bond back in proper order, did you not think that this separation might cause some issues? That the bond which made this pregnancy possible might not suffer undue strain from a forced separation? "
John stared at his feet and spoke quietly, "I didn't really have time to think through everything before I left."
"I did figure as much John. I'm not saying your motives weren't correct, but continued separation will not be conducive in the long run for the safety of this pregnancy. I want you to think about that, now, before we reach the point where something must be done. Think about other alternatives while you have this quiet time to yourself to do so. What if Sherlock isn't able to take care of the threat? What if Moriarty is still a threat when it is time for the babe to be born? Will you deliver the baby in secret still…...without it's father? Successful outcomes are less assured when both bonded parents are not available."
John grew instantly concerned, "No. I don't want to have this baby in secret or alone. I want to be with Sherlock. I want him there. But you are correct, I have not thought much beyond each day or week to come. I have not planned for any number of possibilities I suppose. I just want this child….I want it born safely and I panicked knowing what Moriarty is capable of…...knowing neither Sherlock nor I could take another loss like that. I never meant to endanger the pregnancy through my actions."
Doctor Johnson understood John's fear and concern as he sought to calm the Omega. "John, I did not mean to alarm you. I am sure everything is going well at this point. I merely want you to think about other options in case your plans have to change along the way. You're a soldier, prepare for all eventualities and hope to need none of those plans." He smiled warmly as he patted John's shoulder.
John managed a small smile in return, "I am sure you're right. I should think on these things and make some plans."
The doctor just nodded, "Now as for the reaction now, it could be several things chiefly being the lengthening separation causing the need for familiar scents to grow and the reaction to foreign ones to be worse. Bill was never a concern because he is your most trusted friend beyond Sherlock, an Alpha who knew your secret and protected it as he does you. It is possible that you extended your trust of Bill to his family as well, therefore neither Marco nor his sons were an issue either. Most likely Alec is the first strange Alpha you have had to meet and interact with in an intimate way since you became pregnant and that set off the reaction. But it is calming correct? You are adjusting to Alec?" John nodded. "Then you should be fine. As the pregnancy and separation continue, strange Alphas can become more of a challenge to you, and in some cases even strange Omegas or Betas depending on degree of contact. Being aware of this will help you deal with anything that comes up."
John sighed, happy to have an answer. "Thank you, that is reassuring to know."
The sound of a throat being cleared interrupted their conversation, both men turning to face Mycroft. "Lunch is ready on the patio if you would care to join us gentlemen. You can get to your exam afterwards if that is okay Doctor Johnson."
"Oh certainly. That will be just fine. Lead on to the feast."
Mycroft turned, John and the doctor following to the awaiting meal. Alec joined them today and Celeste and he exchanged greetings with Doctor Johnson before they all sat to what John usually referred to as a "polite" lunch. Where people are polite to persons they do not know and the conversation limited to topics of general interest. For John it was much more strained than the usual meals he enjoyed here but it was to be expected. Soon enough they finished the meal and could move on to the exam which John was most excited about actually.
John suspected they would have an audience if they stayed downstairs for the exam so he instead led Doctor Johnson up to his room for privacy. He felt much more comfortable having the exam done with Sherlock's scent around him. John sat on the end of the chaise while the general exam and questions were given, eyes, ears, nose throat and all of that. Finally Doctor Johnson instructed John to lie back and loosen his pants so he could examine the baby. Upon looking at John and physically palpating the abdomen he commented.
"A bit bigger than I usually expect at this term, though I doubt you would have your dates mixed up. It does get a bit harder to tell with male Omegas as just the nature of carrying a child makes males appear larger than average." John shook his head jovially about the dates but bit at his lower lip as the doctor commented. "It's nothing to worry about John. Relax." He pulled a measuring tape out of his bag, setting one end at the pubic bone then stretching it up over John's abdomen to the top of the firm uterus he could feel pressing up below the skin. He looked at his measurements, repositioned the tape and tried again. Puzzled by his measurements he made some notations in the notebook he had just for John's case before he spoke, "Well you do indeed measure a bit bigger than average for your dates. We will keep an eye on it though."
John tried to make light of his concern, "Are you trying to say I am getting fat doctor?"
Doctor Johnson smiled, "Not at all John. I could not arrange the ultrasound for this weekend but I shall get it set up and return in two weeks to get us a look at what that child of yours looks like okay?"
John was disappointed that he had to wait but understood and another two weeks to wait was better than another whole month. He gave the doctor a cheeky wink and a grin, "Well if that is the best you can do doc I will have to live with it. After all it isn't as if the child is going anywhere."
Doctor Johnson laughed, "No...no indeed. I do have one surprise you will like however." At John's interested sound and tilted head, Doctor Johnson removed a portable doppler and some gel from his bag. "How would you like to hear your baby's heartbeat John?" He knew the answer even without the vigorous nod and exclaimed "Oh Please!" that came from John. Soon enough the cool slick of gel and the press of the doppler slid across John's belly as Doctor Johnson found just the right place. He smiled broadly when he did and quickly adjusted the volume for John.
The only sound in the room was the strong rapid whooshing of a baby's heart and John listened in wonder. Suddenly the child he had dreamed of, the child he talked to everyday, the child he and Sherlock had created together had become real in a way his imagination could not fathom on its own. A very real heart was beating away inside him, just awaiting its birth into this world in the form of his child. He was beside himself with joy, yet tears slid down his cheeks unchecked as he wished he was sharing this moment with Sherlock.
What would he make of the wonder that was their child John thought.
AUTHOR'S NOTES: I deeply apologize for this chapter taking far longer than I like. RL and the chapter itself have just been kicking my butt! Overflowing Thanks to Spades (FF) for betaing, for poking, nudging along, and basically Forcing me to think through this chapter and get it down for you guys! Also belated credit to Spades for the brilliant contribution of the idea of John's craving for pickles and jam in the last chapter! We shared a good bit of email chuckling over that idea and weaving it into the story! And a quick note, the references John made to an oath between he and Bill and "on yer right", these are ideas borrowed from a conversation between one Jamie Fraser and his best friend Ian in Diana Gabaldon's first novel Outlander. It is a reoccurring theme with them so I did not quote directly but still forgot to give credit when I posted the last chapter. So If anyone notices, there you are! ;) As always I own nothing but my ideas. Thanks to ALL the people following along with my story! Your reviews and comments are my drug of choice. It makes me so happy to know so many are enjoying my first efforts at writing for general consumption. :-D