Page 110 of Red River

I blinked. "How?"

"Telepathically."

Right. Stupid question.

ARCHER

When I walked back into the living room, all the boys were still sitting there, deep in discussion. Clearly, the news that we were True Mates had caused quite a stir—and understandably so.

Oliver was downstairs in the laundry room, so I couldn’t loop him into the conversation just yet.

"There's one more thing you guys need to know," I said, narrowing my eyes slightly.

All heads turned toward me.

"Your dad and I are going to be unavailable for a few days. We’ll be locking ourselves in our room together. It’s an adult omega and alpha matter."

Igor and Van exchanged knowing looks, making a few exaggerated expressions. Yeah, they definitely guessed what I was talking about, so I glanced at Aiden and Lake, who didn’t seem to be following.

"When an alpha and an omega are adults, sometimes they need to spend a few days alone together—" I started.

Aiden immediately made a face. "Okay, got it. You’re talking about a heat. That’s how new babies happen."

Lake blinked a few times. "So… when we see you again in four days or so, there’ll be a new baby in the house?"

The others burst out laughing, but I shot them a look that shut them up instantly.

"Pregnancy lasts nine months," I explained to Lake, smiling softly. "But yes, there will be a new baby growing in your dad’s belly. Your tiny brother."

Lake made a serious face, raising a finger. "Ohhh, okay. I get it now. The kids at school were joking about this, but I didn’t laugh, ‘cause I think it’s really interesting. I want to have kids someday too. At least ten!"

I held back a smile and nodded solemnly. "That’s a great plan. When the time comes, you’ll have your own family. But for now, I’ve got a schedule for you guys while we’re gone."

Turning to Igor, I put on a more serious expression.

"Igor, I’m putting you in charge. You’ll be my sergeant."

The other boys stared at me in shock, like I’d just picked a clown for a general.

I gave Igor a pointed look. "Yes, Igor is the oldest now. It’s time for him to start learning how to be a steady leader. It’s his responsibility to make sure everyone stays on top of their duties. Oliver will handle your schoolwork, meals, and rides, but when it comes to training—there’s no slacking off. My absence is not a vacation."

The boys stared at me with great attention.

"Every afternoon, you’ll make sure everyone completes their exercises—running, push-ups, sit-ups, obstacle courses. At least an hour of activity. Swimming is fine, but only under Oliver’s supervision."

Then I turned to Van, who was absentmindedly scratching his left gland, which caught my attention.

"And one more thing, Igor. You’ve got a new task. You’ll start training Muay Thai with Van."

Silence fell over the room. Van’s dark blue eyes widened with something that looked like unexpected hope… and maybe even excitement.

But… Igor’s eyes clouded over with irritation.

"What? Why me?" he muttered. "I’m still learning myself. And besides, does a beta even need training?" He made a face.

Van huffed angrily. "Would you stop calling me a beta? You guys keep forcing it on me like it’s already decided!" There was a sharp, almost desperate edge to his voice.

Igor scoffed. "Father always said you’d be a beta—"

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