Page 208 of Wisteria and Cloves
"Better?" I asked, covering his hand with mine.
"Much," he admitted, some of the tension leaving his shoulders. "I know I'm being ridiculous. It's just... the waiting is driving me crazy."
Christopher glanced over from the stove, his expression understanding. "We're all feeling it. Your scent is triggering our alpha instincts in ways we haven't experienced before."
"Because it's my first heat with you," I said, the realization dawning. "Your bodies are responding to mine preparing."
"Exactly," Nicolaus confirmed, his analytical mind already working through the implications. "Our biology is hardwired to protect.”
"And provide," Miles added, his hand finding the small of my back. "The urge to ensure you have everything you need is... overwhelming."
I looked around at the four men who had become my world, feeling a wave of gratitude wash over me. "You've already given me everything I need. You've all been so attentive these past weeks."
"We can be more attentive," Julian said, his voice dropping to that husky register that made my omega instincts stir. His fingers traced idle patterns on my thigh, the touch seemingly absent-minded but deliberate enough to make my skin warm beneath my jeans.
"I certainly won't complain about that," I replied, feeling warmth spread through me at Julian's touch. His fingers continued their teasing patterns, each circle moving slightly higher on my thigh.
“None of that when dinner is about to be ready,” Christopher muttered, his own eyes having darkened as well. Julian grinned unrepentantly but withdrew his hand, though not before giving my thigh one last squeeze.
"Just a preview," he murmured close to my ear, his breath warm against my skin.
"Dinner's ready," Christopher announced, saving me from having to formulate a coherent response with my pulse racing. He began plating the pasta, the creamy sauce glistening under the kitchen lights.
As we moved to the dining table, I noticed how all four alphas positioned themselves around me—Julian pulling out my chair, Miles making sure my water glass was filled, Nicolaus placing a warm bread basket within easy reach, and Christopher serving me first with careful attention. Their coordinated movements felt like a dance they'd perfected, each anticipating the others' actions while focusing entirely on my comfort.
"This looks amazing," I said as Christopher finished serving everyone. The pasta smelled divine, rich with garlic and lemon, the bread warm and inviting. As we began to eat, I noticed all four alphas watching me with varying degrees of intensity. Even during a simple dinner, their protective instincts were on high alert.
"You're all staring," I said, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks.
"Sorry," Miles said with a sheepish grin, though he didn't actually look away. "It's hard not to."
"Your scent is particularly enticing tonight," Nicolaus explained, his analytical mind always seeking to clarify. "More pronounced than this morning."
I took a bite of pasta, savoring the creamy texture before responding. "Dr. Chen said it could fluctuate as my body prepares."
Christopher nodded, his eyes warm as he watched me enjoy his cooking. "She also mentioned that your appetite might increase. Are you feeling hungrier than usual?"
I considered his question, realizing I had been hungrier lately. "Actually, yes. I've been snacking more between meals, and I finished all my lunch today instead of saving half for later."
"That's normal," Julian said, his voice carrying that note of satisfaction that always appeared when he felt he was taking proper care of me. "Your body is building energy reserves."
Miles leaned forward slightly, his expression curious. "Any other changes? Mood shifts, energy levels?"
I paused with my fork halfway to my mouth, thinking. "I've been more... restless, I guess. Like, I can't quite get comfortable. And I've been rearranging the nest in the living room almost daily."
All four alphas exchanged glances, and I caught the subtle communication passing between them.
"What?" I asked, setting down my fork. "What does that mean?"
"It means your nesting instincts are kicking in," Christopher explained gently, his voice taking on that soothing tone he used when he sensed I was getting anxious. "Your body is preparing the space where you'll feel safest during your heat."
"Which is why I keep buying nesting supplies," Julian added, looking slightly embarrassed. "My alpha instincts are responding to yours. When I see something soft or comfortable, I immediately think of you needing it."
I felt a flutter of nervous excitement in my stomach. "How much longer do you think?"
Nicolaus tilted his head, considering. "Based on the progression of your scent changes and behavioral shifts, I'd estimate within the next week. Possibly sooner."
"Days, not weeks," Miles agreed, his hand finding mine across the table. "Your body is moving faster now that it's off the suppressants and bonded to Alphas.”
