John would never have believed it, if a year ago, someone had told him that he would be a father and Sherlock would be the most insanely protective Alpha ever. John could barely keep him soothed long enough for the staff to do their job with the twins, even then, they had to endure the Alpha's low rumbling growl the entire time. It didn't help that the twins were slightly premature and had to spend extra time in the hospital. John's Omega continued to feel unsettled, not having his children safe in their home, he could expect no less from his Alpha.
Sally knew better than to come to the hospital at such a crucial time, but they had talked excitedly about the babies. She assured John that Sherlock would calm once they were all home and in familiar territory; John wasn't so sure. Celeste was the only person Sherlock allowed near John and the twins beyond Doctor Johnson and the staff. Proprietary pride was obvious on his face and through their bond as she exclaimed over the babies. Mrs. Hudson and Molly were allowed to enter the room, but not to get near the bed. Sherlock must have been too frazzled to register much else the night of the births because now he wouldn't let another Alpha near the room, let alone inside. Alec and Mycroft knew better than to try and Greg kept his distance as well despite being a bonded Omega; too many conflicting scents to interfere with the bonding between the babies and their parents. They waved briefly from the doorway as Celeste held each baby up in turn for Alec's perusal. It was an adjustment for John, that much was certain, but the Omega flourished with his babies in his arms and his Alpha by his side.
After a week, the twins were deemed healthy enough to be released. Escorted by their protective parents, under cover of darkness, in the back of one of their uncle's government sedans, Gabriel Alec Timothy Watson-Holmes and Karise Victoria Lillian Watson-Holmes arrived at 221B Baker Street to begin, what would prove to be, most uncommon lives.
Sherlock's instincts were still in overdrive as he helped John from the car before carefully removing both carriers. He refused to let John lift either one since he was still healing from the births; instead, he carried both himself as he ushered John inside. For his part, John just rolled his eyes and unlocked the door while the Omega secretly enjoying the strength and solicitousness of his mate. Once his family was safely inside the flat and Sherlock had methodically locked the doors and windows, he breathed easy for the first time in over a week.
They settled the sleeping twins into the bassinet now standing in the sitting room and Sherlock slid one arm around John's waist as they both looked in wonder at what they had created. John finally pulled his gaze from their children, placing a hand on Sherlock's chest and kissing him lightly. "How bout some dinner while they are still sleeping? And a nice cuppa? I'm sure I am well enough to do that." Sherlock looked a teeny bit chagrined and nodded, a quiet 'Mm' of agreement the only sound he made in reply. John smiled and went to see what was in that he could work with. He was surprised to find the cupboards and fridge filled to bursting with fresh food, not a rotting foot or eyeball in sight. Glancing around he realized that the kitchen was freshly cleaned too. Apparently, Sherlock was having his own bout of nesting and an overwhelming need to provide for his new family, even if he had help to do so because he had not left the hospital, nor their sides for hardly a moment. John shook his head in wonder and got to work.
He was distracted from his preparations by Sherlock himself. The detective sat in his chair and started to read the paper, only to jump up a moment later and walk over to the bassinet. After looking the babies over, he returned to his chair. John caught him repeating this same behavior four or five times while he made dinner. At first, he had worried that something was wrong but quickly realized it was simply Sherlock being Sherlock. When John approached with their tea, he found the Alpha once more watching the babies, one hand on his hip while the other was resting on the edge of the bassinet.
"Alright there, love?"
Sherlock nodded, taking the tea and sipping at it gratefully before speaking. "How do people do this, John? Babies? I keep thinking I have to check and see if they are breathing, or that I am going to miss some vital behavior or development and it just won't stop! Surely I was never meant to have this responsibility?"
John tried hard not to laugh. Sherlock was simply coming to terms with the enormity of the situation now that they were home, and feeling a bit panicky about it from the look and sound of things. "Welcome to parenthood. You and I, along with every other parent on this earth has gone through these same feelings at some point. The good news is there are two of us and we will manage just fine. I promise." The Alpha looked as though he was ready to argue but John stopped him with a firm kiss. "Now, the children are asleep, Sherlock. I doubt that our one-week-old twins will be doing anything of note while they sleep. You can sit down, read the paper, and enjoy your tea. Everything will be fine. Worry about jumping up when they wake and want a nappie change or a feeding, okay?"
Sherlock scowled at his mate but took his tea and returned to his chair.
John glanced down at the babies, assuring himself they were still sleeping before he finished dinner. Welcome home little ones, he thought, I think we are in for quite the adventure with you two.
{*} {*} {*}
John hadn't been certain about trying to breastfeed the twins at first, afraid that it would be too strange or that he couldn't produce enough milk for their needs. Still, considering that it was the best thing he could offer his premature infants, he gave it a shot. It was odd, just for a bit; then the Omega found it gave him immense satisfaction to provide for his children in such a direct way. And the bonding time could not be beaten, John loved to see those small faces staring up at him as they fed.
Sherlock found himself somewhat jealous of the time John got to hold the babies close and talk to them when they fed. He wasn't about to pressure John into giving a bottle, though, not when he enjoyed feeding the children so much; Sherlock could easily sense the pleasure from his Omega during those times and even a vague impression of contentment from the children. So instead he endeavored to share in the experience as much as he could. He would sit beside John and they would take turns reading to them; the Omega reading fiction and Sherlock reading science. The children seemed equally attentive to either. Occasionally, Sherlock would play his violin at night to help them drift back to sleep after a feeding; the softest, most delicate lullabies he could coax from his instrument he offered to his children.
Then sometimes, he merely knelt beside John and watched his children feed, watched the soft contented expression that would flit across his mate's face as he focused on the babies; occasionally surprising him when he raised his head to smile warmly at him before leaning over for a kiss. Those were the quiet, peaceful moments that would have driven Sherlock mad with boredom before, but now he cataloged each and every one in his Mind Palace.
Tonight was no different. Despite her sandy blonde hair, Karise had proven to be very much like Sherlock. Feeding was a perfunctory business and she treated it as such, latching on and feeding steadily until she was done then promptly letting go. She was always the first one finished, unlike Gabriel who seemed to take after John and enjoyed his feedings at length. Sherlock took Karise with well-practised ease, checking her nappie, then swaddling and rocking her briefly, before putting her down to sleep once more.
Often he would turn to find John smiling, watching him care for their child, but not tonight. John had his eyes closed, head tilted back against the rocker they had placed in the bedroom for more comfortable nighttime feedings. Sherlock studied his mate, he knew he wasn't sleeping, merely relaxed. Crossing the bedroom, he quietly knelt beside John once more, not wanting to disturb the peaceful scene he was watching. Gabriel's dark head shifted ever so slightly as he sucked, though Sherlock could tell he was slowing and would soon be done as well.
The Alpha glanced over his mate once more. He would never have thought of John in this way, but the sight of him feeding their children stirred him with possessive pride and increased his desire for the man who had given him so much. It was not as if John suddenly had breasts, Sherlock thought he would find that distinctly unsettling; rather John's pectorals were enlarged with the production of milk for their offspring, much as a bodybuilder's might be with regular workouts. It was not an unpleasant development in the least, only adding to John's attractiveness to his mate. As Sherlock watched, a thick drop of milk welled up from the nipple Karise had abandoned in sympathetic response to Gabriel's continued nursing. It fascinated him, this whole new realm of observation, feeding his curiosity and need to explore on a daily basis. Tonight that urge was a bit more primal in nature. It had been six weeks since the babies were born and the Alpha craved his mate. John had already been for his checkup with Doctor Johnson and received a clean bill of health, so nothing stood in their way beyond opportunity and desire. Combining his urge to catalog everything with the strong desire for his mate, Sherlock approached satisfying each directly, leaning forward to lick the drop of milk from John's nipple, the taste much sweeter than he imagined.
John was well aware of Sherlock's scrutiny but felt no need to respond to it, he smiled a bit to himself feeling the curiosity of his mate as well as the more carnal direction his thoughts were taking. It felt as though it had been ages since they were last together. He flinched in surprise when he felt Sherlock's warm tongue flick across his sensitive nipple but kept his eyes closed, curious to see what his mate was up to. He found out soon enough with a soft gasp when a new questing mouth closed around his nipple and began to suck, softly at first then with more force. His eyes flew open to look down, hardly believing his Alpha was on his knees nursing from his breast. While his nipples had served the utterly unsexy purpose of feeding his children for weeks now, Sherlock sucked him in a decidedly sexual manner, swallowing the milk he had gathered in his mouth with a hum of pleasure and nipping the swollen bud with his teeth before drawing it in again. John was transfixed, arousal building sharply in his groin as he watched his mate.
Sherlock had merely been curious, as always, but it took only a moment to sense the effect he was having on his mate. Still pulling the leaking nipple firmly between his lips, he let his heated gaze travel over the now flushing chest to meet John's eyes. He stared into the rapidly dilating blue orbs as he raised one hand to the filling cock between his mate's legs, rubbing over it steadily until the hard shaft tented John's pajama bottoms and the Omega was panting above him. Pulling away with a smirk, Sherlock did not release his hold on the erection beneath his hand, enjoying the small whine of need John tried to bite off quickly.
"The baby is finished."
The quiet words appeared to startle John, as though he had forgotten all about the baby at his breast in lieu of his lover's attentions. Blushing fiercely, the Omega looked down to see his sated son, sound asleep with a milk-drunk expression on his face.
"I'll get him." Sherlock stood, reaching for his son, though his expression towards John was no less heated. "I should warn you, in case you couldn't guess, once I lay him down I am taking you to bed. I think I've let you rest enough, don't you?" He winked cheekily before turning towards the crib in the corner of their bedroom.
John huffed softly, smiling to himself, his cock still throbbing and in want of further attention. He watched Sherlock carefully tuck Gabriel in next to his sister, admiring the swell of his arse beneath his pajamas and thinking tonight was long overdue. Still, he couldn't resist teasing his mate. "Fine with me. As long as you remember just how we got those two in the first place."
Sherlock turned with an almost feral smile, causing John's breath to catch in his throat as the Alpha stalked towards him. Grasping John's hand, Sherlock pulled him up from the chair into a fiery kiss. John sagged against his Alpha as one hand grasped his hair and another clutched his arse, pulling them closer and grinding their pronounced erections together as their mutual arousal soared. Pulling away at last Sherlock leered down at his Omega, "I assure you, I remember clearly how we got the children." He began to nip and kiss from behind John's ear, along the column of his throat, and down to his collarbone where he sucked hard, biting down over the abused flesh as John moaned. Lifting his head, Sherlock almost purred in John's ear, "Shall we test my memory?" Suddenly he ducked down to flick the tip of his tongue over one nipple causing a soft hum from his mate. "Or would you like to see what new diversions I can come up with?"
"Both!" John gasped, still pressing himself against his mate. "Christ yes! Both."
Sherlock merely chuckled as he led his eager mate to bed.
{*} {*} {*}
After the debacle of last year and all the heartache it had brought, Sherlock was determined not to make the same mistake again. He had every kind of reminder one could imagine; on his phone, on the calendar, on his laptop. He had even enlisted Mycroft, Mrs. Hudson, and Greg to remind him as well; there was no way he would forget their bonding anniversary this year.
The Alpha was even endeavoring to make plans, quickly running into the problem of instinct. It was too soon for them to leave the children alone, even for a night. The more he thought about it, the more nauseous he felt. When he broached the topic with John, he was even more ill at ease than Sherlock, quickly shaking his head, turning an unflattering shade of green and asking his mate not to mention it again. No, whatever they did for their anniversary, it would have to be all together as a family. After considering all of his options, the Alpha still had no answer, finally opting for the unromantic act of simply asking John what he wanted.
John had given him a broad smile, kissed him tenderly and told him there was only one thing he wanted to do for their anniversary. Well, one thing, and dinner.
Which is how they found themselves, bundled up with the twins in the back of another one of Mycroft's sedans on the day of their anniversary. Sherlock had gotten remarkably suspicious of public taxis when it came to transporting his family and had no qualms about relying on Mycroft in this way. Family protected family after all.
The car slowed to a stop and Sherlock glanced over the tops of the carriers at John.
"You're sure?"
John gave him his sharp military nod. "Yes. It won't take long."
They each reached over to unbuckle one of the sleeping twins, lifting them from their seats, making sure their thick wooly sleepers were fastened with warm hoods secured over their soft heads and that each had the thick blanket John had brought to wrap them in. They would only be outside for a few moments but it was March and early spring was still months away. Once each twin was well bundled and cradled against one of their parents, they stepped from the car. John gave Sherlock a questioning glance and at his nod headed off along the path he knew so well, Sherlock following right behind him.
The sight of the tall black stone still caught John's breath in his throat while the smaller one clenched his heart, he had not been here since that day so many months ago when Sherlock had found him. He froze for a moment until Sherlock's gloved hand slipped into his and gave it a squeeze. A deep breath, a nod, and he was alright again. He gave Sherlock's hand an answering squeeze before he let go and took the last steps up to the two markers.
Kneeling down before the small plaque, John held the baby close with one hand while he tenderly brushed some stray leaves away, clearing the stone though the entire site was well cared for. Mycroft, he suspected.
"Hello, little one. It has been too long since we've visited, I know. A lot has happened." He paused as Sherlock knelt down beside him, a reassuring smile encouraging him to continue. "You have a new brother and sister now...twins. Can you believe it, your dads got it right in the end." John reached up and pulled the blanket back as he kept talking, "Now this is Karise," he motioned for Sherlock to do the same with his blanket, "and this here is Gabriel. I wanted you to meet them so you would know who to keep an eye on. Sherlock and I will do our part down here and you help us out from up there, alright? And we'll make sure they always know who their guardian angel is."
Sherlock didn't say anything, merely letting John say what he needed to. While his Omega was not overly religious, he refused to believe an innocent unborn child would ever be condemned to oblivion. Sherlock had only the slightest idea of what the loss had felt like for John, he looked at his children and tried to fathom losing them. Even that brief consideration made him shudder and clutch Gabriel more tightly. It had become just as important for John to acknowledge the child they lost, as it was to celebrate their anniversary and the children they carried, so they had come as a family to do just that. The wind picked up, gusting icy blasts through their coats, blankets, and clothes; Sherlock tucked the blanket more snugly around Gabriel and cleared his throat gently.
John glanced up at him, already wrapping Karise warmly himself. He looked back at the stone, giving it one more rub with his hand as he spoke. "We've got to go now, it's too cold to keep your new siblings out here for long. We'll come visit again in the summer when everything is warm and blossoming." Sherlock had already risen, preparing to walk back to the car. John leaned forward slightly and whispered, "I'll always miss you, you know." There were more words but he couldn't manage anything else through the sudden tightening in his throat. Instead, he swallowed thickly, stood, and nodded his farewell to the little marker. Sherlock's free arm slipped around his waist, and he returned the favor as they made their way back to the sedan and home.
The rest of the day was spent much as any other day, reading, caring for the children or the house, just generally being a family. Sherlock did at least surprise John with one thing for their anniversary. While John had been nursing the twins and getting them down for the evening, Angelo had arrived with a full catered meal. At Sherlock's request, he had made all of John's favorites himself, loaded them up with two bottles of wine and topped it off with cannolis, a luscious tiramisu, and a half gallon of spumoni he had buried in a cool pack. He had even brought them a drippy wine bottle candle. Sherlock supplied the red checkered tablecloth; it was terribly cliche but John found it touching and romantic and loved every last sappy bit of it. Angelo himself had only stayed long enough to set things to warm and receive John's praise and gratitude; then he wished them both a very happy anniversary and left them alone.
They heaped their plates from the stovetop and counter, then sat together at the old kitchen table. Sherlock poured the wine and leaned over to offer John a kiss.
"Happy Anniversary."
John's smile was radiant and happiness pulsed through the bond. "Thank you, love. Happy Anniversary to you as well. We best dig into this feast while the kids are still sleeping, though I have no idea how Angelo expects us to eat all of it." He hummed in pleasure over his first bite of mushroom ravioli, then chuckled to himself. "We'll have leftovers for a week."
Sherlock watched him, relieved that he had gotten it right and made John so happy. His thoughts drifted suddenly and he found himself wondering how things might have been if he had done something like this last year. If he had taken the time to think of John and be the Alpha he should have been, would they still have the baby they lost? would their bond and relationship have progressed? would they have been able to defeat Moriarty? It was not like him to dwell on these types of thoughts, things happen and life moves on; that was the way the world worked but those doubts still lingered in the dark recesses of his mind. Perhaps it was the change in their bond and John's more sensitive influence that prompted rugged fingers to close warm and firm over his hand where it rested on the table, pulling him from his morose thoughts. He looked at their joined hands then to John's face and realized he knew.
"Don't Sherlock. Don't question yourself. The past is past. We have learned, we have moved on...grown closer and become stronger together because of everything that happened." Lifting Sherlock's hand to his lips, John kissed the ridge of pale knuckles before he spoke again. "Let it go. We have our family and the future together to look forward to."
Sherlock quickly twisted his fingers around until he held John's hand and returned the kiss to his knuckles as well. "I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me for a moment but you are correct. Thank you...for reminding me when I need it."
John huffed softly, "That's what I'm here for."
Sherlock smiled, chewing his fettuccine alfredo for a moment. Swallowing quickly, he nearly blurted out the next words his heart so full it had to erupt. "I love you, John!"
John sat back, smiling serenely at his mate. "I know."
Sherlock didn't have to listen for a response, his mouth falling open at the rush of love and affection John poured into their bond. He clung to John's hand and returned just as much back to his mate.
"Happy Anniversary, Sherlock."
"Indeed it is, John. Indeed it is." He leaned across the table to kiss his mate deeply until he was gently pushed back.
"Later," John whispered with a mischievous gleam in his eye. "We will hate ourselves if we don't enjoy this lovely meal together while we can."
Sherlock chuckled, picking up his fork and stabbing his pasta again. "Too right you are."
{*} {*} {*}
The next six months seemed to fly by as life settled into a new routine. Sherlock spent the better part of the first month at home with John and the twins but then he had to get back on the streets, pursuing the work once again. John did not join him at first, nor did he return to his work at all. He was more than content at home with the twins, feeding them, nurturing them and watching them grow. As soon as warm spring days were upon them, John and Sally were loading the kids into prams and meeting at the park every afternoon. John knew it would not last, that he would still crave the adrenaline and danger of working with Sherlock; but for now, the children needed him and kept him well grounded at home. And Sherlock had a great deal more motivation to keep himself safe and to get home within a reasonable amount of time.
The time flew for Greg and his pregnancy also, but Mycroft swore time had slowed to a crawl for him. If they had thought Sherlock was intense as an expectant Alpha father, Mycroft broke records. Sherlock complained when Greg was placed on desk duty for the duration of the pregnancy and he had to work with Dimmock on most cases. It was standard procedure for pregnant Omegas, and while perfectly safe, Mycroft still complained that he worked at all when he didn't have to. Greg huffed and went on to work without arguing the point.
Stalking gained a new meaning thanks to Mycroft's rabid surveillance of his pregnant mate. Obviously, Greg had not realized the true extent of Mycroft's power until the pregnancy hit full swing. He could not go to the loo without a worried text from Myc asking if everything was okay. He couldn't enjoy his lunch without another text asking about the ingredients in his butty or the sodium content in his stew and whether it was appropriate for the baby. And Christ forbid he so much as reach for a cup of coffee; the phone would actually ring within seconds.
Greg would go by to see John and commiserate over their Alphas' behavior. Greg didn't know how Mycroft even managed to do his own job acting like this, and they were beginning to have serious concerns about the effect his behavior could be having on the British government itself. John found he was secretly glad he wasn't mated to Mycroft and that Sherlock had missed a large part of his pregnancy since he would have lost his temper more than a few times over behaviors such as this. When Greg couldn't take it anymore...he ran away. Not that he could actually get away from Mycroft, but he could turn off his phone, go to John and Sherlock's for the night and have an evening of peace from his mad Alpha. The first time he did it, Mycroft of course simply pestered first Sherlock, then John; John just turned his phone off and Sherlock ignored his brother. It was not easy for Mycroft to deal with, but he did learn to recognize when he sometimes went a step too far and his mate had to have a break.
So it came as something of a relief when September arrived, heralding the arrival of Lissette Celeste Noel Holmes. With only one child to bear, Greg carried closer to term and the birth was relatively uneventful; at least from the Omega's point of view. Mycroft was only slightly better than Sherlock had been for the labor; despite John and Sherlock being there to offer support. And while Greg was a bit more prepared than John, it had been quite a few years since he had done this. Not wanting to set Mycroft on edge any further, he managed the pain the best he could. It would almost have been easier to have the Alpha sedated for the birth, but Greg knew there would be hell to pay when he awoke if that were to happen. So he grit his teeth and gripped Mycroft's hand through the contractions. He lost count of how many times Mycroft snapped at the nurses to give him something for the pain; just as he lost count of how many times he had to assure his Alpha it was better to forego the drugs for the baby's sake, male Omega deliveries went more quickly anyway.
Neither John nor Sherlock commented on Mycroft's turn about in behavior now that it was his turn to endure the experience, though several pointed looks and smirks were exchanged. There would come a time to take the piss out of the mighty government official, but for now, they left him to his suffering. Their solicitude might have something to do with the fractured fingers Mycroft endured stoically while Greg's grip tightened fiercely, bearing down to birth their daughter. Greg's guilty request to give Myc a break was honored...at least for a few weeks.
By the time the baby had been home for a couple of weeks, neither man could resist a bit of light hearted teasing. Arriving for a visit and finding Mycroft gingerly handling his new daughter while two fingers were still in a narrow splint, all bets were off...at least for Sherlock.
"How are the war wounds brother dear? Been punching walls again?" Sherlock bestowed his most obnoxious smile upon his elder Alpha as he flopped down on the sofa, spreading his arms along the back and making himself at home.
"Not at all, brother mine. My fingers are healing perfectly well." Mycroft glared slightly at his sibling, unconsciously shifting the baby away from the other Alpha.
Sherlock, familiar with both the gesture and the instinct now, held both his hands up and scooted further down the couch to placate the Alpha. "Just a visit, Mycroft. We won't hold the baby." The Alpha relaxed a bit at the statement, aided by the appearance of his mate.
John and Greg arrived bearing tea and a bottle for the baby. Greg, like Mycroft, was a confirmed workaholic and had every intention of being back to his field assignment when his six weeks was up so he had opted for bottle feeding only, just as he had with Germain and Marie. If he had feared any complaints from John over his choice, they never came; the doctor considered it a personal choice and saw no difference as long as the baby was healthy and happy. There would be a heavily vetted nanny when Greg returned to work, but for now, he and Mycroft shared the care of Lisette with equal pride and joy. The Omega held the bottle and reached towards the baby. "Do you want me to get her?"
Mycroft surprised them as he quickly reached for the bottle, "No, no. I'll feed her while you visit." This appeared to be a fairly common reaction since Greg only smiled and passed the bottle to Mycroft with a small kiss on his brow and a soft 'Thank you' before he sat down and took his tea.
John watched Mycroft cradle the baby with his injured hand so he could hold the bottle with the other. Thankfully it was his non-dominant hand that had been injured or the Alpha would likely have been much more disgruntled than he appeared to be with his injury.
"Would you like me to look at that for you? Make sure it's healing properly, I am a doctor after all."
"No, thank you, John. My doctors assure me that the fractures are healing nicely. The splint should come off in another week or two."
John gave a small smile and a brief nod, humming to himself. "Must have been intense, though, fractured fingers and Greg still holding tight." He shook his head in mock sadness, "Dreadful business. Simply dreadful...such behavior." John tsked softly to himself. "Still, you took it well. We do have to admire you for that...and, I'm certain, Greg appreciated it."
Greg knew what John was up to and he couldn't deny Mycroft was due his comeuppance, even so, he huffed in annoyance. "Look! I apologized already. I couldn't exactly help myself at that point."
Mycroft had listened to all of this with his usual bland expression, pretending to focus on feeding his daughter instead. But at Greg's words, he chimed in. "No, you certainly couldn't Gregory. Please desist in feeling guilty over a minor injury that will be gone in no time at all." He was silent for a moment, appearing to gather himself before he looked at John. "Forgive me, John. I am far overdue with my apology for my behavior towards you during the birth of the twins. At the time, I was grossly out of line."
John shrugged. "You apologized already. There is no need to do so again; but if it will help your feelings, then I shall accept your apology."
Chagrin was obvious on Mycroft's face when he replied, "I suppose I did apologize, but I did not truly understand how deeply in the wrong I was. Not until I had to watch Gregory go through the same thing. Given what I know now, I felt a repeated expression of my remorse was called for to reflect this knowledge."
John couldn't help chuckling at Mycroft's earnestness, "Alright. I see. Then yes I accept your apology in all good faith. At least we will all know better next time."
Sherlock nearly choked on his tea, sputtering and coughing to clear his throat before he rasped, "Next time?!"
John didn't know what made him say that but his Omega was smugly content with the statement. He glanced sheepishly at his stunned mate and shrugged.
"Well, you never know."
{*} {*} {*}
John raised his hand to shield his eyes from the bright sun as he watched Karise and Gabe dragging their father towards the barn and the pens with the, as yet unsuspecting, lambs and goats. He couldn't stop the throaty laugh that bubbled up watching Sherlock, still in his usual bespoke suit, attempt to distract his headstrong children and disentangle himself. He could sense his mate's discomfort all too well now, thanks to their ever-strengthening bond. However, the three and a half-year-old twins were not to be swayed. They had barely arrived at the agriturismo for a long awaited visit with Marco and Elena and the twins had talked of nothing but the animals since they made landfall in Ancona. John suspected that both he and Sherlock would be subjected to milking the animals for the children's amusement after hearing tales of his adventures here when he was pregnant with them.
Returning from depositing his guests' luggage in the appropriate rooms, Marco's deep voice boomed good-naturedly behind the Omega's shoulder. "That's quite the rambunctious pair you have there, John."
John chuckled loudly, dropping his hand and turning to greet their host. "It could hardly be helped. They have their father's intelligence and intense curiosity as well as my love of adventure. We were doomed from the start. I am amazed your hearing remains intact after listening to them non-stop on the way here."
Both men laughed at that before Marco's eyes narrowed on John. "I am well used to children, as you know. As are you, it seems. Another is on the way to add to your current bounty?"
John's mouth fell open in shock before he managed to collect himself and shake his head in bemusement. "I had forgotten your knack for knowing these things and won't even ask how you can tell. My last heat only ended three weeks ago. I barely know!" He had in fact confirmed the pregnancy with a visit to Doctor Johnson just before they left home.
Marco shrugged, a ready smile on his beaming face. "It is a gift." He glanced at the tall Alpha now trying to keep the two toddlers from entering the pens until one of Marco's sons arrived to help. "But you are happy, yes?" John's smile was instantaneous as he nodded in reply.
"Very."
"And your Alpha? He knows? What does he say?"
John chewed his bottom lip while he considered his answer. "I'm not certain if he knows yet or not. I mean, I wasn't with him the last time after the first six weeks and I have no idea when my scent will indicate the change to him." John shrugged, "We have talked about it, so it will not be unwelcome if that is your concern. Either he knows but is waiting for me to speak, or he does not and will be happily surprised when I tell him." John gave Marco a playful wink, "Assuming you and Elena can occupy the children this evening, I thought I would take Sherlock for a bit of a walk and share the news privately. If he doesn't deduce it from one look at you that is."
Marco laughed heartily. "I am certain we can do something with the children tonight. Besides, your mate won't have to deduce a thing. He'll know something's up when he sees you start digging into Elena's cooking like you did before."
John gaped in mock offense at the remark before joining Marco's laughter. "Well, you may have a point there." He was so happy to have been able to bring Sherlock and the children here at last; planning the trip had taken the better part of a year, eager for some family time and a break from the Work. Bill would be joining them with the rest of the family this weekend making the reunion complete. The children were old enough and mobile enough to enjoy the trip and Sherlock's Alpha was settled enough with his young family not to fly off the handle at every turn. And now he had wonderful news to share with his mate, John could hardly remember a time he had been more content with his life. He reached out, clasping Marco's shoulder companionably, expressing the many things he could not say with the simple gesture.
Marco smiled and nodded briefly in understanding, returning the gesture before the two friends made their way off the piazza and across the yard to help with the children, now squealing happily over soft lambs and inquisitive goats.
{*} {*} {*}
News of the pregnancy had been met with surprise and elation, the children taking it in turns to be contemplative versus excited. Once back home in London, John continued to work with Sherlock as much as possible; after only one rather loud domestic during which the Omega demonstrated just how capable he was despite his pregnancy, leaving his Alpha on the sitting room floor nursing a broken nose. John regretted it deeply and apologized profusely when he finally calmed down and returned home. Still, Sherlock learned not to pique his mate's ire when he was pregnant, deciding to trust John and Doctor Johnson to know when he should cut back on the dangerous and strenuous work of chasing after his Alpha and keeping him safe.
John had quickly realized that there was one decided advantage to having your Alpha nearby during pregnancy. When his hormones decided to wreck havoc with his libido, having an eager and ready outlet proved quite advantageous. It was at that time, that they realized there was also a significant hindrance to relieving certain urges as often as they struck. Rambunctious twins were simply not conducive to spontaneous sex. They found that, at times, alternative arrangements had to be made.
Which is how they found themselves packing the twins off for a weekend with their uncles and cousins. At nearly four years old, their fathers could relax their hold enough when needed, especially with family. The twins were barely gone, the sedan still pulling away, before the door was locked and clothing shed, their "sex holiday" already commencing.
Now, as oft happens with public servants, crisis waits for no man...or Omega as the case may be. An eventful shower, followed by a rather creative and playful second round was abruptly interrupted by the sudden return of the twins. Knowing what was most likely underway, Greg and Mycroft were attempting to corral the children in the sitting room, as their unsuspecting fathers had failed to answer either of their phones while they were en route. However, Gabe was faster than anticipated and had disappeared in a flash down the hallway. The flicker of inattention was all that Karise required to follow hot on her brother's heels, never one to be left behind. Bursting into their parent's room, both children bellowed out a loud SURPRISE, that swiftly fell silent before garbled conversation drifted out towards the sitting room.
Greg and Mycroft exchanged worried looks, at least they weren't shouting...maybe they had just been asleep. Gabe came running back out, an excited look on his face.
"Uncle Myc! Call the police. Somebody broke in while Mum was in the shower and tied Papa to the bed!" Mycroft's eyebrows shot up as he reached for his phone only to be stopped by Greg's hand over his. Kneeling down to the excited boy, he began, "Well, I am the police, Gabe. Does Mum or Papa need help?" He would have thought the child would be more frightened, but then again, these were John and Sherlock's children. There was no telling what they had become accustomed to despite their tender years.
Just then Karise came walking out, her expression as bored as any they had ever seen on Sherlock's face. "Uncle Greg, Dad says to bring your keys. They lost their key in the bed sheets." It was Greg's turn to look surprised, exchanging a knowing smirk with his mate before he made his own way down the hallway, passing John as he did so.
"Ta, Greg." John's voice was soft and embarrassed as his friend passed by. He tightened the belt of his robe and continued into the sitting room, coming face-to-face with Mycroft. One flickering glance from head to toe and Mycroft had deduced exactly what they had interrupted. He had to give them credit for quick thinking, though John was still turning red as a beet from his head to his toes. Mycroft took quite a bit of delight in John's discomfiture but made no move to make it worse. Indeed, he too knew better than to mess with a pregnant Omega. He also clearly remembered how randy Gregory would become during the pregnancy with Lisette.
John cleared his throat pointedly and forced himself to meet Mycroft's eyes. "Time for a cup of tea? I can put the kettle on."
"Alas no. We must be off, a case has arisen that shan't wait." Just then Greg returned, followed closely by Sherlock trying to appear aloof and unaffected though Mycroft knew better. "I am afraid we shall require your services as well, brother dear. Perhaps, you'll be so good as to put on your clothes." Sherlock glanced at John, receiving a slight nod of acceptance before he turned for the bedroom once more. As always, Mycroft had to try to have the last word. "That is, as long as you feel up to it following your harrowing ordeal."
Sherlock didn't even turn around, a low rumbling growl drifted up the hall before the door to the bedroom closed with a loud thud. Greg huffed out a laugh and Mycroft beamed, turning his attention to John. "I am sorry to interrupt your weekend, though under the circumstances, perhaps I should summon an investigator to look into your break in. Can't be too careful with the safety of my dear niece and nephew now can I?"
John's smiled was tight and a bit forced while his eyes gleamed with something Mycroft couldn't quite define, but it made him a tad uncomfortable. "Don't mention it, Mycroft. I am sure Sherlock and I can handle the problem. Thank you both, for trying to take the kids. Sherlock and I will be more than happy to return the favor if you ever need us to watch Lisette."
Mycroft thanked John for the kind offer as Sherlock returned, dressed and ready to go. Quick kisses and hugs for the kids and they were off once again, solving crimes.
It was some time later before it occurred to Mycroft, that knowing his brother and his mate, he should perhaps worry more over John's offer. Then again, perhaps he should have known better than to tease the pair about their compromising position in front of their children. Paybacks were hell...at least if John had anything to do with them.
{*} {*} {*}
John leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes to take in the warmth of the sun, the sounds of his family, and the scent wafting in on the soft breeze from the garden. Darcy cooed happily from her uncle's lap and John opened his eyes with a smile. It was a beautiful summer weekend with the whole family at the manor. Something they managed to do fairly often, despite all of their schedules.
He glanced around in contentment. Not yet a year old and Darcy Jordan Leigh Watson-Holmes appeared to have her father's knack for manipulating people, wrapping everyone around her pudgy little fingers easily. The proof sat before him as Mycroft made faces and odd sounds to entertain his niece while John was supposed to be eating. Celeste, Greg, and Doctor Johnson looked on in amusement but made no move to intervene in the little dictator's iron control of the government official. John wondered if anyone had ever thought to weaponize infants and possibly take over the world. Though Dictator Darcy would tire of her current toy soon enough and demand attention from her fathers, siblings, or cousins. Siblings and cousins who, at the moment, were fiercely engaged in sword training with Alec while Sherlock supervised; the family tradition to be upheld as long as Alec could teach. Germain and Marie practiced off to one side, having age and arm reach over the younger children but they demonstrated just as much determination. He watched the four and five-year-olds respectively, continually awed by how much life had changed in such a short time, largely because of them.
Not the Work, they still ran about on cases just as they always had, though now Sherlock perhaps showed a bit more care for his own mortality with a large family to return home to. Sherlock's fame and notoriety had only grown, affording them a comfortable income and the ability to be selective with the cases they took on. There were always offers from overseas and out-of-country, but if they couldn't travel as a family or solve it long-distance they often declined. There was the rare occasion that Sherlock would travel on his own, but they found it a strain on their bond when he did so, requiring the better part of a week to resettle when he returned.
The children, even as young as they were displayed every indication of having inherited Sherlock and Mycroft's astonishing intelligence, as well as John and Greg's compassion and tenacity. Though John and Greg both found themselves depending on Celeste's experience when it came to dealing with and providing appropriate guidance for their preternaturally smart children, she constantly reassured them both that the children truly were the best of each of their parents.
Karise could have been Sherlock made over except for her blonde hair; tall and thin with those same stunning eyes, she was sure to become a beautiful young woman one day. She currently wielded her wooden sword with skill and precision.
Gabe, on the other hand, was John with dark curls and blue eyes, shorter and compact, he nevertheless let nothing stand in his way. His sword parried with deftness and strength.
And Lissette? Lissette had her older siblings and cousins to look up to and was still developing, but carried herself just like Mycroft, complete with his mannerisms. Although Greg's more colorful expressions often erupted when least expected, much to the amusement of the entire family. She lacked finesse with her sword yet but not the determination to match the older children.
Collectively their parents had all discussed having the children tested for their secondary genders, but the consensus was to wait a few years. Better to let them all be children without the added stress of expectations associated with their genders. It would come up soon enough for Germain and Marie simply due to their age and they would deal with it as a family when the time came.
Family; above all else, having an actual family to be a part of, to gather together like this, to share joys and hardships with, that was the most astonishing change for John. For all of them really. But everyone was thriving, content and even happy in their kinship. Now there were holidays, birthdays, and miscellaneous events to look forward to throughout the year. Even the just-because gatherings like this weekend.
Over the years, Doctor Johnson had come to be seen as another member of the family, rather than just their trusted doctor. Being a beta and having chosen not to have a family of his own, the good doctor was happy to share in his adopted family's ups and downs and welcomed the frequent invites for weekends such as these. Today he had an announcement for them as well. He was merely waiting for the right moment.
Practice finally adjourned with loud cheers and much sword waving, Alec the loudest of them all as he chased the children up to the patio to receive the praises of their parents. Darcy decided she had to join in the ruckus, especially since it was time for a feed. John started to get up but Celeste merely shooed him back down, collecting Darcy and herding the brood into the kitchen for a wash-up and snacks. Sherlock joined them, leaning over to give John a kiss before taking his seat and reaching for a glass of lemonade.
Having his primary clientele all seated, Doctor Johnson, thought now would be as good a time as any to break the news. Clearing his throat to get their attention, he met each of their gazes before he began. "So it shouldn't come as any surprise that I am getting older by the day, and thanks to your patronage I hardly need to keep up a full-time practice for the income." He paused to gauge their reactions and only saw mild curiosity. "I was thinking that I would retire, maybe travel a little...or teach. I don't think I can justify keeping the practice open, though I thought perhaps a younger doctor may take over, keep things going in my stead." This finally prompted a reaction from his audience.
Mycroft straightened in his seat, adopting his business face as the doctor had come to call it. "Doctor Johnson, while we greatly appreciate all that you have done for our family, I am afraid that I simply can't allow you to do this." The doctor gaped at him in shock and Mycroft winced from what was apparently a swift kick in the shin as Greg cleared his throat and nodded pointedly at his mate. Mycroft had enough sense to appear chagrined. "I apologize. What I meant to say, is that we were rather hoping to have the advantage of your knowledge and skill one more time before you deservedly hang up your stethoscope." He closed his hand over Greg's on the table, both mates smiling happily at each other before looking at the doctor expectantly.
"I believe that your services shall actually be required twice more before your duties to our family may be fully discharged," Sherlock spoke with confidence, turning to meet John's confused expression. With a knowing smile, Sherlock leaned in close, pointedly scenting at John's throat, then licking him for good measure, a satisfied purr rising from his chest as he did so. He looked up to greet the shock and dawning pleasure in John's eyes as he addressed Doctor Johnson once again. "Another seven to eight months at least, Doctor. No one else will possibly do."
"Perish the thought, brother dear." There were smiles all around the table including Doctor Johnson who shook his head fondly as Mycroft spoke. "I do trust we have your agreement then?"
The old doctor chuckled loudly and spread his hands in surrender. "I honestly have never seen two couples make up for lost time faster than all of you." Leaning back in his chair and crossing his hands over his stomach, the good doctor shrugged. "How could I ever say no to the Holmes?" He pushed up from his chair to offer his heartfelt congratulations to his two favorite patients before they started working out the details. There would be much to celebrate at dinner tonight.
{*} {*} {*}
John leaned back, pulling the warm throw up securely and clutching his hot mug of tea in his chilled hands. The children had insisted on playing in the snow so play they had done. Now, they were all warming up by the fire. The older children were quiet and occupied themselves with various endeavors while the younger ones were bustled off for naps. John sighed, glancing at the steady snowfall outside the manse's thick lead glass windows and stone walls. He truly felt happy and that happiness had only grown over the years. Every action and choice since he had met Sherlock had led him to this place, to his family and this sense of immense satisfaction with himself, both as a man and an Omega. He chuckled as he tried to recall all of the reasons he had once had for denying his nature. He would never begrudge his early adult life nor the experiences that shaped him, but he would never have been complete without this...without Sherlock.
He turned from the windows to study his gathered family. The Christmas holidays were upon them again and this year they had all traveled to Alec's ancestral home in Scotland to spend their time together. It had become a habit to alternate where the families spent the holidays, though they had made a point to always spend it all together. From the looks of the weather outside, they may well be snowed into the manse for the duration. John couldn't say he'd care if they were. He enjoyed the fierceness of the countryside here and the seclusion of the property. It was like being in a world all their own, well-removed from their everyday life in London.
Germain was currently engaged in some political debate with Mycroft. Twenty now and halfway through his degree at Oxford, Germain doggedly sought to become the next minor official in the British government. He wasn't a Holmes by birth so he lacked that supernatural intellect, however, he more than made up for it with sheer determination and hard work. The young Alpha had been impressed rather heavily when Mycroft became his Dad's new Alpha. From that age onward, he had been determined to make the powerful man proud of him. And he was succeeding, if the pleased surprise on Mycroft's face as Germain made a strong argument for his side was anything to judge by. Greg often said he should be more offended that Germain didn't want to follow in his footsteps, but he admired his son's accomplishments and would never wish their life of chasing criminals upon him.
Marie sat on one of the leather sofas near the fire, her feet tucked under her as she carried on an animated discussion with Celeste in French. She was 18 and using her gap year to travel and experience the world. She had been in France for the past six months studying art, meeting distant relations and learning about their families. She too had presented as an Alpha, not that anyone who knew the forthright young woman was surprised. Still, she was determined not to be an Alpha cliche, so she continued her art studies while she decided what to do about university and her future. John knew just enough French by now to suspect that Celeste was planning on joining the young woman for an in-depth exploration of Paris following the holidays.
After their experience with Moriarty and a few other less than savory criminals and political opponents, Mycroft had insisted that the children be tutored at home for their safety. John had grudgingly agreed, but only with the provision of regular and appropriate social excursions as well. Their arrangements had worked well for the band of cousins thus far, but renegotiations were underway; Karise and Gabe were fast approaching the age for secondary education. Karise's intelligence was blinding, as was her competitive streak. She wanted to go to school with other children to prove herself. Sherlock had tried his best to explain to his daughter that she would find herself rapidly bored and annoyed, as he had been, but she refused to budge. Gabe did not seem to be genuinely concerned, rather more following his sister's lead. He had been that way since birth. When John was able to have a quiet talk with Gabe alone, his son revealed that he really didn't care to go to school and interact with other children in that setting. He was happiest at home with his tutors and, while he was remarkably intelligent, he didn't need to prove anything. However, he hated to think of not having his twin nearby to study with, so he went along with her. Finding out that most of the schools Karise might attend were not co-ed had hurt Gabe's feelings deeply. The current plan was to allow Karise to try out public schooling and Gabe would stay home with the tutors. They suspected Karise would soon be back at home with her brother. While the twins were still a bit young to present, John and Sherlock had their opinions which they wisely kept to themselves.
Lisette didn't want to hear a word about public school. She liked her tutors, her home, and insisted she had to be there to help care for her young brother. While she could easily go rounds with Karise when it came to intelligence, Lisette was a princess and she liked it that way. They were fairly confident in their opinions about her potential presentation as well. Mycroft and Greg grew increasingly more protective the older she got but said nothing.
Darcy had remained the same magnetic child she had been as a baby. She hardly gave a thought to being by herself at her current tutoring level. When the other children had to share and study together she got her own personal tutor. Something she thought made her more special than anything else. Where Karise was pure intellect and sometimes struggled with social norms, Darcy was naturally empathic, very much like her Mum, she was at home anywhere. She put people at ease and chatted comfortably. It had caused more than a few scares when she would disappear only to be found sitting with some person talking. Mycroft kept extra security on Darcy whenever she left home for just this reason.
The youngest, both now sleeping soundly in the nursery, gave little thought to schooling and were virtually inseparable given their nearness in ages. Aiden Jonathan Thomas Watson-Holmes had arrived four and a half years ago, much closer to term than his siblings and only two weeks behind his cousin. Dominic Alexander Pierre Holmes had arrived right on time, kicking and screaming at the top of his lungs; he had been wide open ever since. Mycroft had been forced to eat crow about a 'Holmes' baby as both he and Gregory both lost nights upon nights of sleep due to their son. The little spitfire was a true ginger. Now at four and a half, everyone in the know could easily see a young Sherlock in the ceaseless energy of the young boy, even Mycroft would agree that his offspring was very much like the little brother he once sought to entertain. Sherlock denied any similarities, but could often be found engaging the boy in obscure and macabre experiments. Aiden wasn't interested in the experiments themselves but he always had fun chasing after his cousin. "Someone has to keep him out of trouble, Mum!" Aiden had proclaimed more than once, so the two heads were to be found perpetually bent over something. John never told Aiden he wasn't doing a very good job keeping them out of mischief, though the two boys reminded all of them of Sherlock and him when they were up to their necks in trouble on a case. Nothing had been blown up thus far at least but John wasn't going to hold his breath. It was surely only a matter of time.
John had honestly tried to shake the 'Mum' over the years, to convince the children to call him Papa instead, but Karise was the only one who would do so consistently. He had gotten used to it, especially with an Alpha who still took perverse delight in calling him that himself, though it was always said with an air of such fondness and love that John could never resent it for long.
John smiled softly, sipping his tea as he continued his ruminations. The last pregnancies had seen the end of what fertility John and Greg could expect given their ages and Doctor Johnson had happily attained his well-deserved retirement. He sat at the card table across the room playing a game of chess with Greg, still very much a part of their family. Both Greg and Mycroft had achieved much in their respective positions and both mentioned retiring at semi-regular intervals. No one believed the two work-a-holics would do it for a moment, they would probably have to be forced out with armed guards.
John found thoughts of retirement entering his own mind more often these days. Though he hated to admit it, they were getting older. His joints ached with the cold and running through the damp London nights was certainly harder for both of them now than when they began. While Sherlock remained as striking and handsome as ever, the streaks of white gracing his temples belied his age even as they made him appear more distinguished to others and only added to his appeal for his mate. John wanted more time with his family at Baker Street, more time to travel or just be with his mate without all of the jeopardy and adrenaline. Sherlock was world famous now, the work steady though increasingly repetitive for his active mind. He had proposed a teaching seminar to train Yarders, and potentially others, in his techniques to improve their own investigative abilities. John thought it was a step toward cutting back himself as well. Their bond was as strong as ever and John knew if something was crossing his mind, it was crossing Sherlock's.
"What do you think about here?"
John jumped at the sound of Sherlock's voice. He had been so lost in his thoughts that he didn't notice Alec and Sherlock returning from the library, discussing something about the estate business. Alec was still every bit the gregarious Alpha to his surrogate family but he was getting older, as was Celeste. They turned to Mycroft and Sherlock more and more in matters regarding the large country estates and their management.
"Here? The manse? Here for what?"
Sherlock sank down beside him on the settee, wrapping his arms around John's shoulders as he snuggled closer. "Here to retire? Here, the manse. Here, the country. Here, Scotland." He raised his head, eyes bright with the prospect of something new. "What do you think?"
John didn't have to think for long, maybe it was the Scottish part of his ancestry but he truly loved being here. "I'd love it!" He paused for a chaste kiss earning them smirks and smiles from the children. "But when? Do you mean now or in the future?"
Sherlock watched the snow fall and thought for a moment. "Not right away, no. But we could start coming here more often if you'd like, weekends and such. Alec is wanting me to take on a bit more of the caretaking so it would make things easier."
"So what, is Alec wanting to sell? I mean I'm pretty sure we can afford it but I don't want to put him out of his home in any way."
Sherlock smile only grew fonder as John spoke. "Alec isn't selling. He's leaving the estate to us."
"But that's...that's just…" John couldn't manage to get the words to come out after such a bombshell. It was far too much. Sherlock jumped in before he could rally his tongue.
"As the eldest, Mycroft will inherit the Holmes manor and the properties in England. Alec has no family left to pass the estate to and we are his adopted family. Besides, he is rather fond of you, you know." John's eyes grew wide but also sparkled with merriment. "Must be the Scot he sees in you. He wants to leave this property to us for our family and future. What do you think?"
John still wasn't sure how to go about accepting such a large gift, even from Alec, but he knew that he would do so. He had vague memories of hiking through the heather with his own grandmother in the few Scottish summers he got to spend here as a boy before she passed. The scents born on the brisk wind across the moors were even now a visceral memory. John finally managed to drag himself from his own mind to answer his mate. "Well, it would certainly be safer for your experiments. I think that alone makes it a positive." Sherlock rolled his eyes. He had long ago been relegated to the space in 221C for his lab work. Even before they had to open up the attic space to make more room for their growing family. John ignored him and continued, "It will be healthier for the kids, and us too honestly." The idea was really settling in and John's excitement grew. "We could invite Marco and Elena, or Bill. Have Sally and her family down for weekends. We could actually entertain our friends comfortably."
Sherlock huffed softly. "Comfortably for whom?"
John soothed his Alpha easily with a treat. "You could start keeping those bees you've always wanted but Mrs. Hudson refused to allow at Baker Street." Sherlock brightened immediately, his mind already cataloging equipment he would need and experiments he could set up. John only smiled, actually looking forward to seeing Sherlock madly tackling a new project again. "So it's a yes?"
Sherlock met his gaze, "A definite yes." He nuzzled John's throat affectionately. "I think we'll be very happy spending our days here together."
John turned to kiss him, intense love, palpable across their bond. "We will be happy anywhere, Sherlock. As long as we're together."
{*} {*} {*}
AUTHOR'S NOTE: Well, I can hardly believe that after a ridiculous amount of time, the epic that began my writing journey has finally come to an end. I have loved the adventure, the responses from all of you along the way, the bountiful encouragement as I keep moving forward with my writing, just the thrill of sharing my story with all of you. I appreciate every last review and PM I have received and genuinely hope that those of you who have stuck around for the fluffy end, at last, will enjoy it. I always brag on my beta because I truly think I am one of the luckiest writers to have her. But this time I truly have to say a Huge and Heartfelt THANKS to Spades, for countless hours of conversation, ideas, red-pen butchery, and laughter. It was merely a twist of fate that brought us together before this tale ever reached the half-way mark; her choice to click the link to read my story and leave a review. Both my writing and the story have only gotten better since then. As she reminded me, this is where we began. It is hard to believe that all our ideas have come to fruition and now we're done, though Hardly finished with our collaboration. I can't wait to see what new ideas we decide to explore next! Happy Reading Everyone! Until the next time! :-D Sincerely, Cynthia