Chapter 5
SAKURA
"And then I walked down the stairs for what felt like hours" I sniffed, taking another offered napkin and cleared my running nose for the tenth time "Like a loser who can't even see through tears" another sniff and a hiccup escaped my traitorous lips. "I even got an email! Look!" I unplugged my phone from the charger and showed her the awful excuse the company used to end my contract.
Once Shizune had knocked on the door with my phone in hand, I knew there was no way I could hold back these tears. Her sympathetic smile almost dropped at my frown trying to hold back the tears. I felt my lips quiver the moment she said "Oh dear, I brough some napkins. Tell me everything"
And she thought everything meant what caused the awful bump on my head… aren't I one hell of a surprise box? I omitted some details; she didn't have to know everything… just that I lost my job… I still haven't told them my nausea had gotten worse, and I finally had a good meal today.
I needed to collect myself first before even opening up and would rather talk more comfortably at the office than this house – I just hope the walls are thick.
Her gentle hands held my phone while she read those words, most likely just typed out by my boss herself -or that man with the nice hair and pretty face… Dear God, he is out there with them.
Mortification halted my pity party for a moment before the tears began once again. "They must think I'm some sort of weirdo who followed them. What if they report me? Can that happen? Is there some sort of Omega jail? I can't go to jail while pregnant!" I breathed, starting to feel the panic hitting my voice and shutting down my vocal cord.
"Oh dear, no!" Shizune placed the phone down. "Don't think of that, they aren't mad at you" her hands reached for my shoulders and rubbed at my tensed muscles. "I'm sure it's just a big misunderstanding" her smile was genuine but a little too tense for my liking.
That email was very clear. "It says I harassed him, sexually! Me!" I argued "I swear that didn't happen! Do you think I can talk to them and ask for them to remove that? Will it show on my work records? Oh my God! I will never find a job if they file a report against me! Much less if the reason for my termination is –"
"Sakura" my midwife soothed "Breath, you'll get worse if all you do is worry" her eyes showed pity, at least someone was on my side… I guess "You can talk to them after you've rested. Now, let's check that little bump of yours, shall we?"
All I could do was nod, the bruise began to show almost right away with a second forehead growing on my head. Right after they closed the door and left me rapped in a blanket with ice on my head, I turned to the window and slowly remembered what I was doing. Quickly I removed the covers and rushed to the bathroom – only this time, I didn't empty my stomach, thank God – I needed to collect myself.
They smelled amazing, let alone how much better they look in person and up closely. I had pinched my arm a few times just in case I was stuck in a fantasy dream. Then the pain hit me after spraying some water on my face… it was red and angry with the beginning of a bump… a few shades of green and purple began to show after a few minutes and then I refused to stay any minute longer in the bathroom.
I regrated leaving the window open when I walked back into the room, their scent had been covered by the rainy night. On any other day I would love it – now I just felt alone once again.
Their scents were comforting and welcoming.
Shizune hummed while checking my head. As a nurse practitioner, she had more than enough knowledge on her to calm me down whenever I start to freak out about my health, her humming was just a reminder that she didn't see any emergency and I didn't need to rush to the hospital.
"It's just a little bump" I know she was trying to downplay it, it's huge and angry "You will be just fine. Is there anything bothering you? Shortness of breath, pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding?" I shook my head and regrated it immediately.
"No, just the head" honestly, I just needed someone to talk to at this point. "Did you come alone?"
"Dr Tsunade is in the foyer, probably pouting" she snickered "There shouldn't be anything to worry about, I can only give you paracetamol and ice should also help with the swelling. You can always call me if you have too much pain or something else happens, remember?"
"Yes" I responded after a big sigh left my body, the tension of the moment escaping and leaving me drained "How did they get your contact?" maybe I shouldn't even bother asking, I've recently found out nothing is private in the corporate world, they will just find my medical file from work with all my doctors information and emergency contacts…
"Oh, I thought you gave them your phone. They called us and explained you got injured… " she stared me down, brows furrowed with suspicion "Sakura, what happened?"
Her hands folded in a motherly "Tell me what happened, or you will be in more trouble" kind of way. I got to learn how to do that, eventually I will be the one scolding a child when they grow up… what am I doing? People prepare for these things, plan out their lives and ensure their future with a job, career, family or at least a support system.
All I got is a best friend who I'm too afraid to admit I got knocked up by her childhood crush and – Oh my God I am an awful friend!
"Sakura? Sweety, what happened?" Shizune worried, my vision had blurred and all I can hear is her worried gasps at my splotchy crying face. "Oh, please don't cry… I am not mad at you" she tried to sooth me, embracing me into a warm hug and rubbing my back.
The next few words came out as a sniffing and snotty mess "I… it's- it's not that… I promise!" drowning in hiccups, I tried to explain the events leading to my ugly bump on my head. "I just feel awful, I will be a horrible mother! I can't even tell my best friend I'm an Omega… how can I tell her I lost my job, my apartment flooded and I'm pregnant!?" I blurted out after using up a few more tissues.
"Hey, don't worry about all that. Just focus on getting better. All those pregnancy hormones are getting to you" She soothed, handing me another tissue and tossing the used ones away "You already found the pack belonging to the baby's father, let's take one step at a time"
I sniffed "… pack?"
Rubbing my watery eyes away, I turned with a questioning stare at the woman looking at the window "Yes! Look at that rain, we better get on the road before it gets worse." She turned to me "This is their pack house, I'm sure you can stay here until you decide what to do. The Omega Shelters are safe, but you won't find it as comfortable as your own home. Maybe wait until the morning to have a nice talk with them" she began to gather her nurse kit and walk to the door "Call me if you need anything!" she chimed before closing the door.
…
…
Stunned didn't even cover the surface of how I felt at this moment… what are the odds? All of them…
I read a few magazines and newsletters about popular packs and common pack dynamics from around the world, most packs are about the same number of men I remember staling glances from the moment I stumbled here and the number of scents I was able to gather.
I can recognize them all from my little crushes… this whole time they were a pack? A part of me felt better about having interests on more than one man rather than feeling guilt over not being able to make up my mind about one person.
For the longest time I began to wonder if maybe something was greatly wrong with me, what kind of woman just pins over… six men!?
Apparently, a dormant Omega who scented the pack before even knowing she was an Omega… me, little Sakura Haruno from little Konoha farms outside of the big city. Never in my wildest dreams had I ever imagined or fantasised about such events happening in my life.
Nothing could have prepared me for none of this, the pressure on my head began to hammer at my skull and remind me of that bump I had to take care of… I do remember the many appointments and calls with Tsunade…
"When an Omega becomes ill or injured, the physical contact with her Alpha's will act as the best health boost" she made sure to clarify how different medical care compared from being a Beta and being an Omega, normal medication can only do so much. "Omega's strive from physical contact with their loved ones. A touch starved Omega will be ill and weaker, don't let that happen to you – or I'll strap you to a medical bed and feed you through a tube!"
A chill ran down my back. I understand where she is coming from, being a doctor and knowing what's best can be annoying when your patient constantly finds themselves lost and confused.
This is all new to me… and it scares me. Glancing around the room, I notice how nice it looks. the cream-coloured carpet with matching drapes. The bed with different tones of cool grey and light blue. The dark wooden frame matching the few items of furniture in the room. Light grey walls embracing the warm lights from the ceiling and lamp. It all looks like it was taken from a model room you see on those home decor adds.
It's just lacking everything else. The room was made to provide a comfortable place to sleep for those visiting and nothing more – mostly to just fill a room and say you have a spare bedroom.
It feels empty.
Could it feel this way because they aren't in the room? Is this some Omega instinct I need to get used to? I sigh… it's getting harder to interpret my feelings.
I can't always tell if I am agitated because Sakura is agitated, or my Omega side is agitated… or if my pregnancy hormones and instincts are shooting at my nerves.
A shade of brown caught my eye, turning, I noticed Shizune's coat on the corner of the bed. It's so cold out there… my hands itched to rush and get her the coat before she leaves. But what if I encounter them?
Then what?
Act like a guest and keep my head down?
No – I tell myself this isn't the home of a narcissistic family like my ex. They won't expect me to act like a submissive housewife and keep my chin tucked into my chest – not that that ever worked… they never found me good enough for their arrogant son.
With a new resolve, I lift my chin proudly. Wipe away they dampness of my face and grab the coat.
Deep breaths. Deep breaths.
Squaring my shoulder, I waltz my way to the foyer… God this house is big and fancy. You can tell only men live here. Not a single shade that isn't grey, dark or blue can be seen other than maybe off-white. Would it kill them to add a little green? Maybe some-
Stop that – I tell myself; this isn't my home to change – or add any personal details of mine… like a little burgundy pot in the corner over there… the voices echoing in the home remind me of what I am about to do. Taking a deep breath, I take the last few steps "Shizune?" I try.
The voices halt, now that doesn't encourage me at all… "Are you still here?" Shizune turned on her heel and gives me a bright and questioning smile. She didn't even notice her coat was missing.
The grand staircase overpowered the entrance, dividing the home into two and effectively covering me from the other side, I'm guessing the dinning area? Next to my midwife, the tall and imposing basketball player stood there, staring at me with an unreadable expression.
I'm so used to seeing him from afar, on the screen and never having his gaze connecting to mine. It's a new feeling I can't help but relish. Dam he is tall. "I'm still here" Shizune spoke. Encouraging me to approach a little more.
My lungs seized as I now found myself in front of the pack covered in shadows from the low lighting – the whole pack. It's late at night and I'm over here keeping everyone awake… guilt inched my resolve to end this and hopefully let them all rest.
I'm fine and there is no need to drag this any longer. "You forgot your coat" pushing the coat forward a little to emphasize, Shizune noticed with a little blush covering her cheeks. Her hands patting at her sides and realising she was underdressed for the storm outside.
"Right, I didn't even notice" she approached "Thank you, Sakura" with a grateful smile, she covered herself and glanced at my feet "Go back to bed, you aren't even wearing shoes" she scolded lightly.
I didn't even think that was a problem. I tucked my chin down, a response to my carelessness, I can't get sick with a cold on top of all this.
Now that I think of it… I was dressed in borrowed clothing… I had a few things in my car I can just get to get more comfortable. "Oh…" I pointed at the kitchen, the door I entered trough would lead me to the garage "I got a pair on my car. I'll go get them… um" I glanced at the man I called The Huntsman. The way he hunts in every game, almost scaring the opposing team with his intense senses. He never missed his target and always made me feel like little Red Riding hood wanting to fall into his arms as I ran away from the dark moments in my life…
I glanced at the rest of the pack, shadows covered their features, but I knew they could see me. I wondered what they were thinking.
The need to ask them for help almost left my lips. What do I say? I didn't even know if the door was unlocked. Come to think of it… where was my purse?
When silence began to settle, shuffling caught my eye. "I'll go with you, I won't allow you to step outside with no shoes" a man spoke, the shadows covered most of their features, but I could scent them all. When my eyes finally caught a glimpse of him, I found myself stunned once more.
He was the man who wrapped me up and laid me on the bed. I remember his hind words and hands making sure I was comfortable and safe. I did feel safe. Memories of him giving out speeches at the many charity events I worked at played in my mind. The way he spoke about those who suffered from misfortune always warmed my heart. He was never rude, condescending or showed any disgust towards those who didn't have much to their name.
I always considered him as a modern Robin Hood, Ino agreed with the nickname when I informed her how much money he had been able to squeeze out of those ugly rich men who needed to enhance their image in the public.
His tactics were low against those who went lower, ruthless words would be exchanged, and he always knew what to say and to whom. Never ruining his reputation or having his hands dirty.
His name had always been covered under the shadow of his older brother, using the cloak as a way to work without anyone daring to mess with him – not that he even needed that – look at him. His long slightly spiky dark midnight hair tied back on a tight knot. Sharp eyes that contrasted with his pale skin and marble like features. His smile always genuinely kind when his eyes held knowledge and understanding.
His tall form loomed over me, broad shoulders and arms I knew barely fit into his dark grey suit, how often did he work out?
Forget that, Tsunade mentioned Alpha's can build muscle on top of muscle like they were on steroids…
My mouth watered at the thought of what hides under all those layers.
Dear God, I am no better than a horny fangirl.
All I could do was nod, what was he saying just now?
Focus! Focus Sakura!
"Sakura" Tsunade spoke "Are you sure you want to stay?" I turned to her, guilty about forgetting she was still there. They both drove all the way here for me, because of me.
Worry shined on her eyes while she waited for my answer. What were they talking about? Did they say something? "Can I?" I hesitated "Just for tonight" I quickly added, I wasn't going to force them to keep me here if they wanted me gone, but the thought of leaving twisted my gut in ways I didn't want to experience.
I wanted to feel warm and fussy, find all the covers and pillows in this house and build a fort – you know what, now I sound crazy. Maybe they don't want that. They might know more about Omegas than I do… I mean, I just started on this chapter of my life, and they had been Alpha's for – what? – years?
The light tapping of shoes chased those panicked thoughts away. There, entering the foyer, under the lights engulfing my nurse and doctor, stood The Bid Bad Wulf.
Madara Uchiha was a powerhouse of a man, physically and figuratively. Long spiky hair, untamed and surprisingly fitting, his hight wasn't as tall as The Huntsman, but he did rival the pack in his own aura of leadership. A straight nose paired with those sharp dark eyes and a jawline most men try to achieve with surgery these days.
He looked like a warrior dressed in formal clothes that just stepped out of a fantasy set in the olden days. His rich aristocratic features did not belong here – and yet, here he was, talking to me.
"You can stay, as long as you need. We'll talk in the morning." His voice felt like silk running down mi spine. Do these men know – scratch that.
They know they look good. They sound sinful and smell just as amazing. You can fill in the rest.
I couldn't contain my smile, the little Omega in me preened at the need to please and receive encouraging words from these men. More than ever. "Our pack will respect your privacy. However, if you need anything, do ask us".
My mind ran with that. I don't need privacy – yes, I do. I appreciate it. And I do need something – a lot, actually. But I'm too tired to let those dirty thoughts out of my lips and rather let mister Robin Hood guide me away from them and into the garage.
"How's your head?" he whispered. Did he have to tickle my brain with his voice? No, he did not!
Before I answered, I noticed my purse was hanging on a hanger next to the door leading to the kitchen. "Yes…?" he seemed to have understood my silent question and lightly laughed.
I almost moaned at how nice that felt, his smile was so real and his eyes so warm. "We took your purse in case there was a medication you could take. Your doctor is very strict with your care" he reached for my purse and handed it over to me "I promise we didn't pray too much into your stuff" his hands lifted to guide me to the garage.
I shook my head, wincing at my stupid decision "No… it's fine. I wanted to thank you for your kindness" I omitted about their lack of privacy I've had in the last few hours. But they did have the right to know I was carrying the child of one of their pack members. I can see why they would need to make sure I'm not some kind of danger to them.
Hell, even I would have searched my car if I were them.
Fishing out my keys, I let the worry wash away into conversation. "I actually don't mind if your pack wants to find out more about me…" I clicked the button to unlock the car. He had turned to me and signalled for me to stay inside. I had no shoes.
"We do want to, but" he turned, I pointed at the back seat, my slippers should be there along with some essential items for a good nights sleep. "I can imagine you would want to know as much as you need about us" I nodded, slowly this time.
"It's that first box, with the fuzzy blanket. It has all that I need for now" taking the box out, he turned to me with a kind but questioning smile, his chin nodding at the rest of the boxes. "My apartment flooded" I blurted out. Sighing, I began to inform him about my unsuccessful plan. Packing up as much as I could on my car and trying to call my best friend.
Her parents didn't answer my texts or call, and I kept trying to get a hold on her. I should check my phone later. I told him about their house being nearby, but the rain didn't allow much visibility, and I ended up waiting it out in my car right outside on the parking spaces where I was found and invited in.
He nodded in understanding and guided me inside the kitchen. Placing the box on the counter and allowing me to dig and find my fluffy pink slippers.
Don't judge me, I like pink – and it was on special.
"Sounds like an eventful night" he spoke, a small laugh leaving his lips at my matching pink blanket and slippers "You like pink?"
"It matches me" I pouted.
God, please spare me from this… I never planned on being seen by one of these men in such a state. I must look like a child hugging their favourite blanket, I'm just missing glitter and stuffed animals.
"Hey" his hand lifted my chin, goosebumps covering my skin at his touch "You look lovely" he smiled. I think I could just stare at him all day like a creep.
"You look better, coming back from a fancy restaurant?" dear reader, sarcasm is a defence mechanism. Judge all you want.
His brows raised in surprise at my sarcastic tone, a smirk forming on his lips "No, just work"
"Aha… Just work" I quirked my brow at him "Do all of you dress like they just walked out of a modelling gig every day you go to work?"
He laughed, shaking his head "Do you always look this cute when you wake up?"
Dam, shots fired. "I usually look better, you just caught me on a bad day" I turned to my box, shaking off his hand and trying not to drown in giggles. My face burned and I knew if I were on a girls slumber party, I would be jumping in glee if I saw this happen in a TV screen.
"Oh… tomorrow you'll look even better?" he spoke from behind me "Any chance one of us can accompany you tonight to... prove your words to be true?"
Oh shit.
I forgot about that.
Turning, I noticed he was leaning on the counter, casually staring with such ease it felt unfair. He was trying to make me react. That gleam in his eyes was clear as day! "Actually, I do need to have a word with the baby's father" I popped my hip and crossed my arms.
I can't let him seduce me just like that, I may be an Omega, but I will show them how serious I am about my position. No weird and confusing statements, no blurred lines, and most of all – no contracts!
This Omega wants everything set in stone and cleared out. "I am not going to cause any trouble, but I rather not end up investigated for harassment allegations that are untrue. We both consented and we both made this baby" I pointed at my stomach.
The man was stunned to say the least. As stunned as a stoic Alpha can be. "Harassment?" a voice spoke from behind me. I knew that voice like the palm of my hand.
Grumpy was behind me.
Turning, I took in his tensed shoulders and clenched hands. Dampness pulled at his temples and his chest expanded with every breath. "We need to talk" I stated.
No more stalling.