Mycroft closed the door to his room and leaned against it with a profound sigh of relief. The past seventy-two hours had left him more worn down than the last round of nuclear arms negotiations. However, Sherlock and John were awake and on the mend it seemed. Doctor Johnson had insisted on an extra day of bedrest for John before clearing him to get up and cautiously resume his day-to-day activities. John complained about the bedrest but not about spending it with Sherlock, their bond rebuilding itself and strengthening by the hour. He had just seen the good doctor off on his way back to London until the next check-up, he hoped. Sherlock's protectiveness and care over John went a long way in assuring compliance with the doctor's instructions thus easing any concerns. Now that the crisis had passed, Mycroft could at last indulge in a few hours of uninterrupted sleep for himself; the stolen cat naps had kept him and Doctor Johnson functioning for days but he was bone tired and ready to drop now. For once he didn't bother with his usual routine, he simply stripped down to his pants and crawled into his bed in the darkened room. Only the truly, deeply exhausted can appreciate the exquisite luxury of settling into the cocoon of their own bed. Mycroft sighed deeply, closing his eyes as sleep began pulling him under. He thought how wonderful everything smelled and smiled briefly at the abstract thought, the things your mind could drift to as you fell asleep. The housekeepers were simply using a new product he had not noticed as he hadn't even been in his bed since returning home this time. The thought was quickly lost and the smile slid away as he slipped into a deep sleep.
Six hours later Mycroft roused himself with a frustrated growl. He raised his head and blearily looked around the darkened room seeking what had set his Alpha off, but found nothing. As awareness trickled slowly to his mind, he realized he was hard and unconsciously rutting into the mattress. He quickly flipped over in an effort to stop the behavior, wondering what had gotten into him, he didn't lose control of his body like this, his Alpha was well controlled and seldom indulged in such instinctual behavior. He closed his eyes, methodically retracing his thoughts. He caught the barest remnant of what he must have dreamed about, the firm body of a willing and aroused male Omega beneath him as the Alpha pounded into the moist heat of his body. The image was quite vivid and while the sounds were purely the product of his mind, Mycroft could swear he could almost smell the Omega. Mycroft opened his eyes, looking around the room once more. He clearly saw nothing, but a deep inhalation confirmed that he did indeed smell the scent of an aroused Omega nearby. And he had thought the wonderful smell in his room was a new cleaning product. He wracked his mind trying to recall if any of the household staff were Omegas but knew there were none, for practical purposes all of their staff were Betas. How would the scent of an aroused Omega have gotten into his room?
Feeling frustrated once more, he flipped onto his side, wondering if he might be able to get back to sleep. The idea was quickly put out of his head as turning into his pillow brought a much stronger Omega scent to his nostrils. The scent was not just in his room, the scent was actually in his bed. The erection he had tried to ignore and will away was making itself known once more and the Alpha whined in frustration at being denied the Omega it could obviously smell. Mycroft found himself rubbing his palm over his swollen cock to temporarily relieve the pressure, as well as the Alpha, even as he tried to solve this new puzzle. He knew the only Omegas in the house were John and his mother and neither of them would be in his bed nor able to set off his Alpha. And no one was ever in his bed except him, unless something happened that he didn't know about. No, no one but him ever slept here….except….he had….well…..except for Gregory. He had let Gregory sleep here that first night and he was an Omega, though Mycroft seldom paid attention to that fact. Gregory's widowed status and his competence at his job negated him being considered simply as an Omega normally.
Mycroft took another deep breath and confirmed that there were only two scents present in his room, his own and the other which could only belong to the Detective Inspector. Awareness of the owner simply made the effects of the delicious aroma worse as the Alpha quickly substituted the detective's body for the Omega in the dream. Mycroft moaned at the sharp spike in arousal this caused, feeling his knot swell slightly. He already had his hand wrapped around his cock and was firmly stroking himself before he realized what he was doing, the Alpha taking over operations to seek some relief. Mycroft turned his head into the pillow chasing more of the scent as his climax built quickly. The scent filled his nostrils and the Alpha growled low and long as Mycroft thrust his hips, fucking his swollen cock into his fist until he was ready to explode. He knew the moment the dam burst, quickly wrapping his long fingers around his swollen knot and squeezing firmly, he roared out his pleasure as he rode an intense orgasm to completion.
Mycroft lay back panting, still puzzling over why the scent affected him so much. Perhaps because it was the scent of an aroused Omega, but why would Gregory have been aroused….in his room. He had never even caught a whiff of arousal from the DI, but what he could smell now was very potent. The cooling, sticky mess on his own body finally drove him from his contemplations and to the shower. He made swift work of washing himself, then stood there enjoying the hot water and the pulsating massage setting as it eased any tension remaining in his muscles. He let this thoughts drift back to the night Lestrade had brought Sherlock, they had never had the opportunity to spend much time together in a casual setting outside of work and Sherlock related encounters. However, after months of secrets, it had been nice to have someone to talk to about the situation. Gregory had been pleasant and accommodating, serious and jovial by turns, and more intelligent than most might believe. Mycroft had to admit he had actually enjoyed spending time with the Detective Inspector.
Then there was the fact that he offered his room in the first place. Mycroft had been too worried and distracted to pay attention to his actions then, but now he utilized his own mind palace to recall the evening in detail, all the observations he had missed now snapping into place. He saw Gregory's surprise and embarrassment though he said nothing about it nor declined the offer. He saw Anthea's sharp appraisal and studied silence. Lastly he saw the silent exchange between his mother and Alec just before he was left quite intentionally alone with Gregory. Even the thoughts he had pushed aside about how right it felt to include Gregory in his plans for his family came easily into focus. Two things made themselves clear; one, his Alpha was apparently acting on its own volition, instinctually searching for a mate and seemingly deciding Gregory was worthy of pursuit. This would explain why the scent affected him so greatly, he supposed. And two, his family and nearest associates were doing nothing to discourage the alliance. He wasn't sure whether to be worried or relieved by that.
Mycroft now recalled seeing Gregory off to London the next day. He would not have minded the DI staying but they had no idea how long it would take and Gregory had work and family to tend to instead of just sitting around waiting with them. Mycroft recalled Gregory's behavior had been far more nervous and uncertain that morning than the night before; he shook his hand only briefly and wouldn't quite meet his eyes, moving away quickly after they said goodbye. Mycroft had briefly wondered what was wrong but was soon distracted with his brother and his mate once more and had given it no further thought, until now. He speculated whether Gregory's Omega was responding to his Alpha in a way it never had before, a way he had never truthfully considered but now found not to be an unpleasant notion. Now he was wondering if Gregory being aroused in his room had been due to his own scent affecting the Omega. Could Gregory had found himself responding to the scent in much the same way as he just had. And Bugger, if that just wasn't what he needed to be thinking now. His Alpha helpfully supplied the image of the Detective Inspector spread out on his bed pleasuring himself, silver head thrown back against the pillow and lips moaning Mycroft's name while one rugged fist pumped his rigid cock and the other clutched the sheets. He moaned low in his throat as his own cock swelled again, this time not even bothering to attempt distraction or willing it away. This time he readily wrapped his fingers around his cock and allowed the image his Alpha offered to fill his thoughts. Even without the immediate presence of his scent, Mycroft found thoughts of Gregory naked in his bed equally arousing and far too soon found himself spilling his seed against the wall and down the shower drain. He leaned heavily against the shower wall as he recovered, slowing his respirations and heart rate while his thoughts continued, full speed ahead.
The question now was, what exactly did he intend to do about this. He had inadvertently blundered into courting behavior with Gregory. Gregory did not call him out on it nor object but something in his manner changed from the evening to the next morning. Did Mycroft now continue courting the Omega officially? Would Gregory even tolerate his advances or would he simply reject them altogether. Mycroft never liked not knowing the possible outcomes of any action he chose to take, but this was an area he had never pursued in his life and found himself feeling at a bit of a loss. There was instinct, sure, but there was also common practice of which he knew only a little. He found he desperately needed advice. He briefly considered asking Sherlock and John as they were friends with Gregory. However, they themselves did not exactly court normally and he was certain his pride would never survive asking them for advice in this matter. Asking Anthea felt inappropriate somehow, despite her dedication and obvious care for him, it just seemed too personal to burden her with such a request. That left Alec and Mummy, she was traditional and he was not. He resolved to speak with them privately about this matter as soon as he could, he suspected that his future happiness could depend on it.
{*} {*} {*}
It was well past breakfast time when John awoke with a smile on his face due to his unique alarm clock. The covers had been pushed back and Sherlock lay half-way down the bed with his cheek resting against the left side of John's belly. While he was facing away so John could not see his face, he could hear his mate. He was talking in hushed tones and barely moving, no doubt in order to allow John to sleep longer. But he was awake now anyway so he listened closely to catch what he was saying.
"Your Mum is so Amazing! Don't let him ever tell you he is normal or average, I know differently and will make sure you know it too. He tries to tell everyone that I am the amazing one but I promise, I would be nothing without him. He is an Omega but he never let that stop him. He is a doctor, a soldier, my mate, and now he will be your Mum. He will love you more than you can ever imagine, and he will do anything to make sure you are safe and well. I should know, I will be right beside him doing the same. Never doubt that."
John felt the undeniable brush of soft curls and feather-light kisses against his belly as Sherlock nuzzled into him, as though doing his best to get even closer to his children. He smiled warmly at his impossibly complex mate and continued to listen without interrupting him.
"Of course, Daddy will love you too, that goes without saying, but I'm sure I won't be nearly as good at it as your Mum. I am too smart for my own good sometimes, I am rude to people and I forget important things, but your Mum….he makes me better all the time. He will make sure I am the best Daddy I can possibly be, for both of you. He will make sure you don't end up hating me."
John flushed with pleasure at Sherlock's words. He knew his mate loved him but didn't often hear praise like that from him. He was also touched by the naked vulnerability Sherlock was allowing to show through as he spoke to his children. And he was saddened that Sherlock would still feel so insecure about his abilities that he would even worry that his children could hate him. He reached down and stroked the tousled curls tenderly. "You won't have to try love, our children will love you. They will be proud of the incredible man who is their father and they will never hate you. I won't allow it." He smiled affectionately at his mate as he pulled him up for a morning kiss.
Sherlock kissed him and assumed his newfound favorite position, spooning John in front of him with his arms cradled around the swell of his children. 'His children', Sherlock still could barely wrap his mind around that thought. That his beautiful, wonderful John was going to give him children; that because of this man, he would be a father. He could admit he was terrified by the prospect but also more excited than he had been by any crime...ever.
They lay like that, simply enjoying the feel of each other until John's bladder finally made its demands known. "We're really going to have to get up, you know. I need the loo, and then a really good wash, then after that we have to get out of this room. I would like to see everyone, maybe have some fresh air."
Sherlock was out of bed in a flash, offering his hand to help John up and waiting patiently to be sure he was steady on his feet. John normally would have thought this was silly and brushed him off; however, he did still feel quite weak and suspected he would tire easily. So he made no objections as Sherlock offered a supportive arm and stayed close-by, ready to help if needed. It was no surprise they both ended up in the shower, Sherlock tenderly washing John to allow him to conserve energy, soapy hands once more swirling softly over his swollen belly. While John knew a lot of the behavior was instinctual and aided by their bond, he could never have imagined how caring and attentive Sherlock would be over both the children and him. He regretted the rashness of his actions that had led to missing so many months of sharing the pregnancy with Sherlock, though he was still convinced that the threat of Moriarty made it necessary.
By the time they were both clean, dried, freshly shaved and dressed, John was indeed tired again. Apparently, his plan to get out of their room would be conducted in stages. Sherlock insisted he sit down and put his feet up for a bit to rest while he called for some tea and toast to be sent up. They had missed breakfast and he was sure John needed a bit of something to boost his energy. Soon a tray arrived with not only tea and toast, but yoghurt, fruit and John's favorite jam. John merely smiled knowing Celeste had something to do with the tray, while Sherlock set about pouring his tea and making sure he had everything he needed.
John was still a little surprised that he wasn't more annoyed by the behavior. He supposed the pregnancy and bond really did change things for them. His Omega simply purred over being cared for and John, for once, indulged himself without feeling like he shouldn't or that he was being soft. The soldier was still there as well, ever attentive to the environment, ever watchful for threat. It seemed that John had finally reached a state of balance and acceptance within himself, neither aspect struggled to override the other, rather they happily co-existed, ready to serve their respective purposes at a moment's notice.
He wondered if it was the same for Sherlock yet, with his Alpha. He certainly seemed at ease in the role of provider and caregiver at the moment. John knew they still had a great deal to talk about, not only about what had happened these past months but what to do about Moriarty as well. For the time being, however, he was just going to sit here and enjoy having tea and some quiet alone time with his mate.
As soon as John had rested, he was ready to get out again. They took their time and made it downstairs without needing to stop. The weather had turned cooler as autumn trekked its way towards winter but John desperately wanted to be out in the crisp, cool air after days cooped up inside. Sherlock simply obtained coats and a throw from the coat closet and escorted John to the patio. John led them to his favorite seat. Sherlock sat down with his legs on either side of the chaise and pulled John down to sit in front of him. He spread the throw over John and urged him to lean back against his chest, wrapping his arms once more around him. They sat comfortably enjoying the crisp breeze and the rustle of leaves as they slipped from the grip of their trees to flutter to the ground.
John was certain he could fall asleep again, just sitting here with Sherlock. Instead he chose to break the silence, "I don't think I have told you since I awoke just how much I have missed you these past months, being with you, sharing this with you. I'm sorry I deprived you of that and put both of us through so much strain. I promise I will never do that again; I will never run off without discussing things with you. We are both strong, capable men, but together we are so much more somehow. I don't even know how to explain it beyond that, it is just something I know, something I can even feel now when we are together."
Sherlock's arms tightened briefly and he nuzzled into John's neck before answering. "I have missed you too John, and I do understand what you are saying. I can sense it too, I feel somehow less without you beside me. My life is simply incomplete without you there to share it with. I do hate that I missed so much with you and the babies, but I can understand why you did it, what you were thinking. But I want you to trust that you can always talk to me about things, you are right about our strength and that is how we will tackle every problem, each obstacle from now on, together. Always together John."
John smiled, relieved that all seemed to be forgiven. "So we are okay then?"
"I still would like to hear what you have been up to, what has actually been going on. But yes, we are fine love. Give us another day to get ourselves fully online, then we can talk, tell each other's stories. Alright?"
"Sounds like a plan to me," John smiled again, twisting his head around to offer up his lips for a kiss.
"Oi! Will ye luvebirds be joinin us fer tae? Or do ye plan ta keep at it til yer bits freeze off?"
Sherlock's eyes rolled just a bit and John chuckled before answering, "Thank you Alec. We will be along in a moment, simply lost track of time." The distinct 'Mmph' let them know what Alec thought about that and they both chuckled as they untangled themselves from the throw and each other to make their way in for tea. John paused for just a moment, "You know I can't believe you never told me about Alec. Have you even greeted him properly yet?"
Sherlock shrugged but looked a tiny bit embarrassed as well. "I suppose I never thought it was relevant before and no, I have seen Mummy briefly but Alec has not come near the room. No doubt not wanting to cause any problems with the presence of another Alpha while our bond was settling again."
John just shook his head fondly at his mate, "Well he is a fine man. He has actually been a great help to me just as I imagine he was a great benefit to you and Mycroft when you were younger. Never mind your mother, I expect you to be respectful and on your best behavior." He gave Sherlock just a hint of Captain Watson's glare to let him know he meant business.
Sherlock was surprised by John's ready loyalty to Alec and found he couldn't wait to hear what had happened here at the manor to engender John's rarely bestowed trust. Not that he had any intention of being rude to Alec, for he did respect him greatly. Upon arriving in the library where tea was being served he made certain to approach him first after getting John settled. "I apologize that I have not been able to greet you properly, Sir. It has been far, far too long since I was home and I find I have missed your company and unique wisdom as well."
Alec merely looked him up and down before laughing heartily. He called out to John, "Aye, I see ye ave been goot fer the lad at tha!" Turning back to Sherlock he took the offered hand only to yank him into a fierce bear hug before pulling back to speak. "'Tis goot ta ave ye home again, an mated ta boot. Ye've made it thru some tryin times laddie an come out all the bet'er fer it, a fine man ye've become. Yer Mum an I are mor grateful than ye can know fer the influence of yer Omega there. He's a special one yea, yer True Match is he not?"
Sherlock blushed lightly as he observed John doing the same, "Yes Sir, I believe he is, the one in a million Omega who is meant for me."
"Aye, an now yer both ta be doubly blessed. I'm right proud ta see the next generation comin an you the father. We've always hoped it would happen ye know." Alec gave a sly wink to Celeste, "Though there may be hope fer a few more Holmes bairns yet, ye ken?"
Sherlock's eyebrows shot up and John quickly spoke-up, "Hey now, let's not be planning more for me before I've safely delivered these even!"
Sherlock shook his head slowly, "Not us John, Mummy and Alec seem to think there is a chance that Mycroft may provide some additional Holmes children." When John turned his stunned stare to his mate, Sherlock replied with a wry grin, "On the plus side, my deductive skills seem to be functioning properly again. However, on that same note, we obviously missed something while we were out John."
Celeste and Alec simply smiled as they ushered everyone to sit and eat but refused to answer any further questions on the matter. Mycroft strolled in just as the tea was being poured, looking well rested after some actual sleep, and joined them, taking a seat next to Alec on one of the leather couches. Sherlock and John were on the opposite couch while Celeste sat in her chair, happily hosting her family at tea. No one mentioned the matter of Mycroft and children, instead they stuck to general topics for the time being. John was of the opinion that no one wanted to push either of them too much just yet, therefore keeping the conversation quite superficial. Sherlock discussed the estate with the other three and, for a change, it was John everyone was encouraging to eat. Tea was a bit more substantial than usual and John was certain he and Sherlock were the cause. When he could hold no more and was in very real danger of falling asleep where he sat, Sherlock nudged him gently. "Come along John. You've had some exercise and gotten out to see everyone but now I think it's time for a nap." John didn't argue in the least, still surprised by how wiped out he was from the whole ordeal. Soon enough they were cocooned in their bed, in their own little world as they both slept soundly in each others arms.
{*} {*} {*}
The next morning they began reinforcing their bond, and that meant finding out what they had each been experiencing during their separation. Mycroft had already returned to London when they arrived for breakfast with Mummy and Alec, though they expected he would return with Doctor Johnson for the next check-up. Sherlock observed John happily talking with his Mum and Alec. It was obvious he trusted and respected them and they were affectionate and attentive in return. He found it a bit embarrassing that his mate got on better with his own family than he did and he was certain that whatever led to his estrangement in the past was now long overdue to be buried. He was going to be a father, and Mummy would become a grandmother, something he knew she had wished for but had barely dared to hope either of her sons would provide. He promised himself that he would make amends and be a better man for John, and for their family.
After breakfast they took a short walk, John was improving quickly with Sherlock beside him and the fresh air and exercise helped put some color into his cheeks. Still, he tired out easily and they were soon ensconced in the library with tea and biscuits, ready to talk. Getting started was hard, neither one wanting to stir up hurtful memories or cause an argument. John knew it was up to him since he was more used to this kind of thing and he cast around for an opening that was neutral enough. Finally he began, "Mycroft told me about the furniture in his office….I've never seen your Alpha in a full on rage. Your strength alone must have been impressive, judging from Mycroft's description. I am sorry I put you through that. It was never my intention but it seemed necessary at the time."
Sherlock looked away for a moment before speaking, "I didn't like being that way but I had little control over my reactions then; it has….gotten better with time. Over the course of the Work these past months I have reached a balance between myself and my Alpha it seems. I really had no choice, with Moriarty tossing taunts and fake clues our way constantly."
John merely nodded with an indefinite noise and continued to listen as Sherlock recounted the hunt for Moriarty while he had been away. Sherlock filled in all the holes Mycroft left blank in his updates and, barring a few questions to clarify things, John let him talk. It really was the safest topic to begin with but at length he had finished and the questions for John began. "So where were you really? I realized the training was a cover almost immediately, so tell me what you were really doing and where?"
John huffed out a deep breath and began, "Hiding mostly. First Greece, then Italy for a couple of months before returning to Britain. I've been here at the estate since then, nearly...has it really been that long? Uhm...nearly two months now, that I've been here." John told him about Bill Murray and all he did to help; about the agriturismo and Marco and Elena and their many kindnesses. "Just you wait until we are home and I get to try out some of the cooking Elena taught me. You'll fall in love with me all over again and thank her for it!" John teased Sherlock easily as he recalled happy times with friends.
Sherlock smiled at John's happiness, "High praise indeed John. I shall look forward to it." He wondered at the strong sense of happiness resonating through his mind. It was disproportionate to what he was feeling at this moment. Even as he was pondering this the feeling began to change, becoming more serious and slightly sad, again nothing that Sherlock himself was feeling. It was rather puzzling to say the least, but then John began again.
"It wasn't easy you know? Leaving you, being without you, facing the early months of this pregnancy without you; if Mycroft hadn't arranged for the clothes with your scent I might have gone mad. The weekly online calls could only do so much, especially when I was trying to get away with lying to you and keeping this all a secret. I truly am sorry. After what we just went through, I will never make such a rash choice knowing how strongly both of us are affected."
Sherlock accepted the apology with a nod. He could tell there was more to this portion of the story but chose not to push it, instead he shared more of his story with John. "I didn't even realize the effect that the separation was having on me, even while it was happening. A sudden bout of anxiety with no apparent cause, easily dismissed as a fluke. Nausea and vomiting for a solid twenty-four hours, stomach bug of course, they're always going around right. Increased agitation, I guess I expected that and blamed it on the Alpha anyway. It all built up so gradually, I didn't see how bad it was getting until it was too late apparently. I barely remember how it ended up before I woke up here."
John hadn't heard any of this, he had just woken up and Sherlock was here with him. So Sherlock told him what he could remember about feeling sick and not caring about anything at all, including himself; fits of destructive agitation and anger followed by periods of lying listless in the flat unable to do a thing. He recounted what he knew of his own state and the state of the flat when Lestrade and Anthea had shown up and then there was nothing but a blank space until he woke up in bed with John. John's heart ached, knowing he had put Sherlock through so much because of the separation. "Well, I suppose we will have to ask Greg and Mycroft about what happened if we want to know the truth. And I certainly hope Mycroft sent someone to help Mrs. Hudson clean up the mess it sounds like you left at home."
Sherlock agreed. He did care for Mrs. Hudson and she shouldn't have to deal with quite that much mess because of he and his Alpha. Part of his mind was still puzzling over the shifting emotions he was experiencing. He knew they were not all his emotions and the more he observed John the more he was beginning to think a completely illogical thought. Could he be feeling John's emotions? He knew he did not know a lot about bonds and bonding itself but surely that was preposterous. He was pulled from his thoughts however as John continued.
"Strangely enough I didn't have a truly difficult time due to the separation until I came here. I've asked Doctor Johnson but we're still not entirely sure why. I had a horrible reaction to Alec my very first day here." Sherlock's eyebrows shot up at that as he gave John a quizzical look. John understood the non-verbal question. "He was an unknown Alpha in an environment that was supposed to be familiar and safe, relatively. I ended up anxious, desperate to get away, and scrubbing his scent off of my hand. Celeste was remarkably understanding and helpful, getting me back to your room, she doctored my hand, and settled me with your scent. She shared her own experiences with the same thing and it really helped having that advice from another Omega. At least I knew I wasn't suddenly crazy." John chuckled lightly before resuming his train of thought. "Once I got to know more about Alec, I was so ashamed of my behavior, even though it was something I couldn't control. It took a week before I was accustomed to him and stopped having to avoid him altogether and he was very gracious and understanding about it as well. Both Alec and Celeste have been remarkably supportive while I have been here considering they were all but strangers when I was delivered into their care."
Sherlock didn't know what to say to that. It certainly helped to explain John's easy relationship with them, a lot had happened to bring them closer together. He had just considered what question or topic to cover next when two things happened. John yawned hugely at the same time his stomach growled loudly. Sherlock looked at the time and realized they had actually been talking for hours, their pot of tea long since emptied. He couldn't stop the smile spreading over his face. "Well judging by those cues, I would say our children, as well as their Mum, are hungry and ready for a nap. Come along John. Enough talk for now, let's go see about lunch and then you are going to rest." He offered John his hand to help him up although it wasn't strictly required anymore. He just liked having John rely on him.
John really wanted to protest that he didn't need the help but he was enjoying Sherlock's attentiveness now. That didn't mean he had nothing to say. "Really? Mum? Must you keep calling me the children's Mum?"
"I don't understand the problem, John. You are the one carrying the children, the one who will deliver the children, the one who has an actual womb, by all definitions that makes you their mother does it not? I thought you had come to terms with your Omega status prior to the twins conception. What is the issue?"
John smiled faintly at Sherlock's uncertain face. The Alpha beginning to fear that he had made an error and upset his mate.
"Yes. Yes, that's all true. And yes, I believe it's quite obvious I have accepted my Omega nature. It's still just strange and hard to hear that, I mean…..you understand I was a soldier, Sherlock. I fought and killed in a most un-Omega way and I am just having some trouble coming to terms with hearing myself referred to as Mum. Can't we just leave it up to the children to decide what they will call me? They might like Papa and Daddy perhaps."
Sherlock smirked fondly at his mate, "We could certainly let the children decide but I do have to call you something before they are able to speak you know."
John gave him his most bland expression and answered dryly, "You can call me John. The same thing you have called me for years, it seems to have worked well enough so far so you shouldn't have to strain yourself."
Sherlock chuckled again and teased in return, "I can't help it if you are the most adorable Mum I have ever seen and so I wish to call you that. However, if it will make you happy, I shall endeavor to remember not to do so."
John suspected he should just start getting used to being called Mum right now.
{*} {*} {*}
The next morning Sherlock was surprised when John finished breakfast and promptly insisted on dragging them out onto the lawn with Alec. "Mind if we join you this morning Alec?"
"Och, no at all lads, if'n ye think young Sherlock there kens whot ta do. Tis ben a fair long while aye."
Sherlock was quick to reply, "You know perfectly well that I 'ken' what to do. Just because I haven't made use of it for many years doesn't mean I have deleted it." He quickly leaned over and whispered to John, "I don't think I have anyway." John laughed merrily as they positioned themselves to begin but Sherlock couldn't stop himself from worrying about his mate, stopping him with a hand on his arm. "John are you sure you are feeling up to this? Is it safe for the babies?"
"It's fine Sherlock. Doctor Johnson has approved the light exercise and it has really helped me maintain my flexibility and agility despite the pregnancy. I haven't been able to get out here with Alec for a week because of the withdrawal and I have really missed it. The exercise has helped me focus more on myself, you know. I think that, along with Alec's advice and testing, is what finally allowed me to reconcile my Omega with the soldier, so that one no longer fights the other. Rather, they work in harmony, just as you and your Alpha have managed to do."
Sherlock was well versed in Alec's methods from boyhood onward and narrowed his eyes at the cagey older man as he spoke. "Do I even want to know what you mean by testing, John?"
"It was nothing Sherlock, nothing to concern yourself over. Besides Alec has helped me a great deal and you want to act all…..Alpha over the man who practically raised you? Come on! I have looked forward to getting back out here and you are trying to ruin it for me. Now be a good mate, love, be quiet and get moving." With that John turned his back to Sherlock and assumed the starting position next to Alec.
Sherlock wanted to say something else but a sharp glare from John had him positioning himself behind the two of them without further delay. 'The glare' coupled with a pregnant Omega was nothing to trifle with.
Alec of course did not miss the exchange and he chuckled loudly before addressing Sherlock again. "He's a right, rare, piece o work, yer Omega. Count yerself fortunate indeed ta hav found him an be tha much prouder tha he is yers."
Sherlock met his eyes with a look of fierce pride and devotion, "Always Alec. Always!"
John could not see Sherlock's face but he felt the intense emotion just the same and blushed hotly as they began moving through the exercises.
Sherlock remembered the movements well enough to follow them on auto pilot, his eyes focused only on John as they moved. He admired anew the strength of John's compact body. The lithe, easy grace with which he moved from pose to pose was…..well the only word Sherlock could apply to it was beautiful. When he realized that John was moving through the entire exercise with his eyes closed, he could see how this had become a sort of meditation for his mate and Sherlock simply could not take his eyes off of him. The Alpha stirred, purring in interest, desiring its mate. The desire was natural, especially after their separation but Sherlock refused to even pursue that course of action until Doctor Johnson gave them the all clear to proceed. He shook himself and pushed the Alpha's urges away while he continued to follow John and Alec.
Oddly enough, John seemed to be aware of the Alpha's thoughts just the same, stumbling in his movements and turning to give Sherlock a look of wonder and confusion with a fresh blush on his cheeks before resuming his exercise.
Sherlock knew he really needed to speak to Doctor Johnson about this new development as well.
{*} {*} {*}
The days were passing happily enough, both mates content to be back together in the relative peace of the estate. They skimmed over talk of the future, not quite ready to face the challenge and threat of Moriarty yet. They both knew that peace and contentment were never part of their lives for very long and the long arm of Moriarty finally reared its head in a rather unexpected way.
They had been relaxing in the library after their morning walk when John excused himself for the loo. Sherlock barely looked up from the forensic science journal he was reading. However, a few minutes later, he began experiencing the most profound feeling of happiness and satisfaction. He knew immediately it had to be John. He went in search of the man he was certain was no longer in the loo.
Sherlock found him in the kitchen, leaning against the island. Sherlock recognized the sweet smell of John's favorite strawberry jam and something else sour he couldn't identify. Whatever it was, John was blissfully munching away, oblivious to the stare of his mate.
"John? What exactly are you eating?"
John blinked in surprise and looked at Sherlock with a somewhat sheepish expression on his face. "Uhm….sorry, struck by a craving and….and I... just had to have some….didn't mean to worry you." John eyes darted nervously to his plate then back to Sherlock as though considering his next move. Finally with a shrug he picked up his treat and continued munching.
Sherlock had heard other people joke and comment about cravings brought on during pregnancy but this was the first time he had seen John engage in such behavior. However, the pervading sense of happiness was still there, tempered only slightly by embarrassment. Sherlock couldn't even tell what it was exactly, long pieces of something covered in strawberry jam was all he could make out. Moving closer to his mate he tried again, "What is that John? Should I be prepared to stock the pantry at home with this erm, treat?"
John chuckled as he answered, "That's probably not a bad idea, the twins do seem to love them." With another sheepish grin he held his plate up, "Dill pickle spears with strawberry jam." At Sherlock's slight grimace he shrugged, "Yeah, I can't tell you why. I've wondered if each twin craved a different thing and that ended up combining into one craving. All I can tell you is I started craving them like a mad fool after I killed Moriarty's tail in Italy. Bill's had the same expression on…."
John had drifted off when he felt a sudden sharp stab of anxiety, fear and anger all mixed together. Blinking a couple of times as he assessed himself he realized that he felt fine. Unsure of the sensation he looked over at his mate, finding Sherlock gripping the edge of the island so tightly his knuckles were white and his forearms shook. His eyes glared fiercely and had turned from their usual steely gray to a brilliant stormy green and his nostrils flared as he fought to control his ragged breathing. John belatedly realized he hadn't actually told Sherlock about that part of his adventures in Italy, had in fact purposely glossed over that bit. He quickly set his plate down and moved to offer some kind of comfort to his distressed mate. He was met with a feral growl and a command that was all Alpha.
"Don't!"
John froze on the spot. He couldn't stop the small whimper from his Omega. Everything had gone so well until he got careless and now he had upset his Alpha terribly. He didn't know what else to do, he wanted to go to him but he had been rejected. His Alpha didn't want him near, he was a bad Omega. John fidgeted, unconsciously rubbing his stomach and feeling worse by the moment but incapable of action as the roiling chaos of his mate's emotions churned through his consciousness.
Sherlock growled again but it was softer. He was still aware of John's emotions and how he was responding to his own actions right now and it made it that much harder. He couldn't explain that he wanted to comfort his mate but he simply didn't trust himself at the moment. His control with the Alpha had not been tested quite this much in months and he was slowly wrestling that control back before he risked closer contact with John and the twins. But not being able to explain that only added to John's upset and his own frustration. Once he had enough control to release the island without the threat of breaking something, he spoke again, though the command of the Alpha still rang through.
"Our room. Now!"
John began to question him, taking one step closer, but another sharp growl had him turning and heading up the stairs the next instant, glancing nervously over his shoulder at the mate who followed. He wasn't afraid of Sherlock, nor his Alpha, but he worried about this apparent setback in their progress. They soon reached the room and John stood nervously while Sherlock closed the door behind them. He was wondering what they were doing here when the next command came.
"Strip!"
John merely blinked once before he started to undress, noticing his mate discarding his own clothes almost viciously. He knew Sherlock had been reluctant to engage in any physical intimacy until the doctor said it was okay, but maybe the Alpha had had enough and overruled Sherlock's logic. The thought made John nervous, recalling the last time the Alpha had felt the need to reassert his claim. But he had not been swollen with babies then, surely Sherlock didn't intend to allow the same thing now. John abandoned his thoughts when the next command made him jump.
"Bed!"
John slowly got into bed and waited anxiously as Sherlock got in as well. He slid over and pulled an unresisting John into his accustomed place; back to chest, buttocks to groin, thighs to thighs, and calves to shins. Sherlock wrapped his arms protectively around his mate and nuzzled into his bond mark, breathing deeply of John's scent to calm himself. John whimpered softly and stretched his neck, presenting himself further. They stayed like that for long moments until the tidal wave of emotions between them both had settled to a mere storm, only then did Sherlock speak.
"I am sorry John. I was not prepared for that particular revelation from my pregnant mate and the Alpha got away from me a bit. Now that we are settled in a place where we both feel safe and secure, you will tell me the entire story, preferably without any omissions this time. This way at least, if it is upsetting," Sherlock sucked in a long shuddering breath, nuzzling their bond mark as he spoke, "I can reassure myself that you are here with me, you and the children, safe in my arms. As long as I can be assured of that, then we can get through the bad parts without too much trouble from the Alpha. Is that acceptable to you?"
John breathed a deep sigh of relief and nodded, "Yes, that's good...uhm...that'll be...really good."
Sherlock placed a tender kiss to the back of John's neck and caressed his children, warm in their mother's belly. "Then lets begin shall we."
So John told him everything, all the measures they had put in place to be sure he was hidden and secure. He told him about the meetings with Bill and how the first had gone perfectly but by the second, someone had found out about Bill. "Moriarty can reach deeper than either of us thought, I suppose. He must have some military connection that found out about my history, my friends. That is the only thing I can think of but Mycroft may have more insight into that."
Sherlock hummed thoughtfully for a moment before he replied, "Moran." At John's inquisitive 'Hm', he elaborated, "Colonel Sebastian Moran, oversaw the training of sharp-shooters like yourself during your terms of service, though you never served under him directly. Dishonorably discharged and now serves as Moriarty's right hand man, sniper at large, and all around goon. We learned of him some while back but he is as impossible to trace as Moriarty himself. I suspect he retains enough military contacts to find out about your friendship with Bill and send trackers out to follow him."
"Makes sense. They watched the base, waiting for Bill to leave and followed him to our next meeting." As John continued with his story, he could sense Sherlock tensing behind him but otherwise he was under control. He relayed their plan for intercepting the tail and Bill's arguments.
"While I know you are capable John, I am forced to agree with Bill. It was foolhardy to risk yourself in your state…." Sherlock took a breath to continue his complaints only to be elbowed gently in the ribs.
"Shush! It was necessary. We would have never taken him nor his partner unawares if we had not done it like that."
Sherlock knew John was right but still grumbled slightly under his breath as the story continued. He growled low in his throat as John described being pushed against the wall. But the description of the gun over John's abdomen, over his belly threatening his children, that caused his arms to tighten over the babies as the Alpha let loose a vicious snarl. He had to breathe in John's scent for several minutes and rub his hands obsessively over the children, as if to erase the touch of the gun from them, in order to calm himself before John could continue.
When John told him how he ended the life of the sleaze who threatened their children, the Alpha purred loudly in pride. Sherlock also knew how John tended to downplay his own actions so he doubted he got the detailed version that the Alpha would have appreciated hearing. He would really have to meet Bill someday and ask him for the whole story.
John finished with Bill subduing the other man and leaving him trussed up for Mycroft's men, the sudden strange craving and dragging Bill through the market to satisfy his urges. He explained why that day ended his stay in Italy and brought him back to Britain, as well as Bill's subsequent deployment to prevent further trackers from getting to him. John finally sighed, "And that's all there is to tell about Italy. Scout's honour! I hope maybe we can go back there someday, to see Marco and Elena, maybe take the children. They are terrific people and made a tough time so much easier for me."
"I promise you that I will see to it that we do just that. Once Moriarty is dealt with and the children are here safely, we can start planning the trip whenever you like." Sherlock was feeling indulgent since they had made it through this conversation without any further Alpha meltdowns but then he had a sudden thought.
"John have there been any other tails? Any attacks, even here at the estate, that I need to know about?"
John groaned softly as he considered having to tell Sherlock about the attack that caused his bout of preterm labor and precipitated the severe withdrawal that brought them back together. Thankfully, his stomach took that opportunity to growl loudly. They had been laying here talking through tea time and it was now time for dinner. He finally turned to face his spouse. "Sherlock, there is more to tell you but I've had enough for today. I want to go eat a huge dinner and then rest. Besides, I would really rather continue this when Mycroft is here. It will save repetition and provide answers to questions you will have at the same time." He wasn't going to point out that it might also be safer to have the Head Alpha of the family present when he told that particular story. "Will that be okay with you? Can you wait until then, it's only another day before the weekend?"
Sherlock's curiosity was intense but they were both mentally and emotionally worn from today. He was able to agree to the delay without too much difficulty. "Well, loathe as I am to have that lovely ass of yours covered again, I suppose I should take you downstairs and make sure you and the children get fed up properly. That is my job after all, isn't it?" He winked cheekily at his mate who only laughed in reply before kissing him soundly.
"Too right it is! So get a move on husband!"
AUTHOR'S NOTE: As always, Thanks to Spades for her tireless assistance. However, I failed to give credit where credit was due with my last chapter! The Lovely bit with John walking Sherlock through the revelation of his twins was in fact the brain child of Spades herself. The idea willingly contributed to the story but I completley forgot to credit her. A fact I am remedying now because she often has brilliant insights and deserves her due too! To quote my Favorite Hayley Mills moments, "She has the most Scathingly Brilliant Ideas!"
This might be considered more of a filler chapter while we gear up for the final confrontation, the calm before the storm as it were. Still important little bits of story and quiet moments for our boys. Hope you all enjoy!
Thank each and everyone of you for your continued support! Sincerely Cynthia