Page 109 of Red River

"That’s so insane… It’s literally like a dream come true," Van murmured, looking completely awestruck. Then, after a pause, he added, "But I guess I shouldn’t be surprised. You’re the child of True Mates yourself, and they supposedly have a higher chance of finding their own mates."

An odd mood settled in the room. Any discussion about my parents had been strictly forbidden in this family by Thomas. But maybe… maybe it was time to loosen that rule a little?

However, when I looked at my sons’ faces, their expressions already slightly troubled, I knew this revelation was shocking enough. It would take time for them to process, and I didn’t want to pile another heavy topic on top of it.

Just as I opened my mouth to say something, a sudden, intense cramp gripped my lower abdomen—a sensation I hadn’t felt in years, almost forgotten, but its sheer force left no doubt about what it was.

I snapped my gaze to Archer, who raised his eyebrows slightly.

"Shit! Looks like you were right, back on the island, when you said that—" I shot to my feet, grabbing his hand. I didn’t want to talk about this in front of the boys.

Archer let Lake slide from his lap to the sofa and stood up.

As we left the house, their confused stares followed us. Once we were out of earshot, I locked eyes with Archer.

"I’m going into heat."

A small, knowing smirk played on his lips. Classic Archer.

"I know. I was pretty damn sure the moment I saw your entrance."

"What now?"

He narrowed his eyes. "What exactly are you asking?"

"Well… you know… everything."

Archer made a calm motion toward the house. "What’s there to discuss? I’ll tell Oliver he needs to stay here for the next few days. He’ll sleep in the guest room. And we lock ourselves in my room; no one comes in except to drop off food. Which Oliver will prepare."

I blinked, surprised once again by how effortlessly he had it all figured out. "You’ve already thought this through?"

"Isn’t that what you want from your man, River?"

My cheeks burned. If I was being honest… it was exactly what I wanted.

"Yes, alpha," I whispered, looking coyly at him, my hole clenching slightly.

"Then let’s go talk to him. We need to get ready."

I hesitated, my insides twisting with anticipation. "Could you… talk to him? And explain everything to the kids? I’d rather go to your room and prepare the bed," I mumbled, feeling my face heat up.

Archer’s gaze held a hint of amusement. "A nest?"

I let out an embarrassed huff. "I shouldn’t even be talking about this—"

"Why not? We’re together."

"Well, yeah… Thomas never—"

"Thomas is the past. You’re with me now."

I stared at him, gaping, warmth pooling in my stomach. Gosh I loved it! I needed him. In me—as fast as possible!

"Understood! And yes, I feel the urge to build one. A double size! Suitable for my alpha."

Archer smirked.

"Take your time. When you’re ready, call me from a distance."

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