“I thought you retired,” I say, trying to keep my voice steady.
Dad chuckles, gesturing for me to take a seat. “I did, but Layla needed some help with a few reports. What’s on your mind, son?”
I take a deep breath, steeling myself for what comes next. “What was it like falling for Mom, even though she’s a fairy?” I blurt out.
Dad’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise, but then a knowing smile spreads across his face. “Ah, I see. And who is it that you’ve fallen for?”
I shift uncomfortably in my seat, avoiding his gaze. “It’s not like that,” I mumble. “I’m just... attracted to someone I shouldn’t be.”
Dad leans back in his chair, studying me intently. “Is it Rosa?” he asks, his voice teasing.
I sputter in shock. “Rosa? My sous chef? No, Dad, why would you even think that?”
He shrugs nonchalantly. “Your mother has always thought she had a bit of a crush on you.”
I shake my head vehemently. “No, she does not. You are both wrong. And it’s not Rosa.”
Dad’s eyes light up with curiosity. “Then who is it? A nymph? A fae?”
I groan in frustration. “Stop guessing, Dad. It’s... complicated.”
Dad chuckles, reaching out to pat my shoulder. “You’re at that age, Liam, when starting a pack is at the very core of your being. It is your body telling you that. I mean, I thought you would be interested in a wolf, but it is perfectly natural to be attracted to different species. Look at your mother and me. Whatever it is, your family will support you.”
I’m at a loss for words, feeling a mixture of confusion and gratitude. But before I can respond, Mom walks into the room, carrying a tray with glasses and juice.
“Sorry to interrupt, but I thought you’d be thirsty,” she says with a smile, setting the tray down on Dad’s desk. I can see that her curiosity is piqued. The juice was just an excuse to come back in.
“You can always interrupt me, baby.” Dad pulls her into his lap, and I roll my eyes.
“Seriously, guys? Get a room,” I quip, unable to hide my smirk.
They both laugh, and Mom shoots me a concerned look. “Are you okay, Liam?”
I nod, forcing a smile. “Yeah, I’m fine.”
Dad chuckles, leaning back in his chair. “Liam’s just panicking because he likes someone,” he says, a twinkle in his eye.
I feel my cheeks flush with embarrassment, and I shoot him a glare. “Dad!”
Mom laughs, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Is it a man or a woman?” she asks, smiling.
I shake my head. “Seriously, Mom? I am not interested in men that way.”
Dad smiles, his expression gentle. “There’s nothing wrong if you were, Liam. Love is love.”
“I know that. I just can’t figure out what would make you think that.”
“It’s our way of letting you know we love and support you, always,” Mom says.
I down my juice in one gulp, feeling a sudden urge to escape. “Thanks. I gotta go.” I mutter, kissing Mom on the cheek before making a hasty exit.
As I leave the room, I can hear their laughter echoing behind me. Despite everything, I feel grateful for their support.
Chapter 25
Liam
Iwake up in a cold sweat, the remnants of my dream still lingering in my mind. Kissing Selene. The thought sends a shiver down my spine, and I can’t shake the confusion that clouds my thoughts.