Page 39 of The Surrogate Omega, Part Two

We’re both on our feet and to our mate before Mr. C has a clue what’s happening.

“What’s wrong?” I ask.

Multiple emotions flash through Lake’s eyes, but I can’t make them all out, even with this new ability. He sucks in his lip like Ev always does.

“I-I need to go. I’m sorry.”He’s practically shaking. At the same time, Ev and I wrap our arms around him. Our little bird is so tense right now, and all I want to do is drag him back to Ev’s childhood bedroom and make him forget everything he’s stressing about. Thankfully, I still have some sense, so I stop myself.

“You don’t need to apologize for that, Little Bird. Are you ok? You seem anxious.” An understatement, but I don’t want to freak him out more.

Lake nods into my chest. “Yes. There’s a lot I’ll need to explain later, but for now, I have to go. And—” He takes a deep breath. “You may want to head into the precinct soon, Logan. I have it on good authority they may be getting some vital and extremely time-sensitive information regarding Rory McNally.”

All the pieces that have been rattling in my head slam into place. Fuck. It was Lake all this time, wasn’t it? “You’re the one anonymously sending me the information, aren’t you?”

Lake tips his head to the side in acknowledgement. “Yes. I can’t tell you anymore. Believe me when I say we need to move now.”

Ev is quiet next to us, his head tilted to the side as he tries to make heads or tails of what’s going on. He knows a little, so I know he’ll catch up.

“Lake, the feds took over the case. I don’t have anything anymore.”

Lake rolls his eyes. “Please don’t insult my intelligence, Logan. I know you’re still involving yourself, at least unofficially.”

Ev snorts and turns his head toward me, his expression saying,He owned you. Feeling properly chastised, I lean down and kiss Lake’s head in apology. “I’m sorry, Lake. I didn’t mean it like that. I know you’re always the smartest person in the room. And you are right; I’m doing some private research on the case.”

“Well, I don’t believe it will be unofficial for much longer. I really need to leave. I will call both of you to let you know what’s going on, and Logan, keep your phone on and refresh your email often.”

Fuck, my mind races as I try to figure out what’s going on, but I know I won’t get any more answers right now.

“I will.”

Lake looks me in the eyes for a long moment, and then he does the same for Ev. Then he nods sharply. “Ok, I have to go.” I just realize he already has his shoes on. Before he can slip out, I catch his jaw and bring him in for a kiss.

“Be safe, Little Bird.”

“I will. You too.”

Ev catches him before he can sneak off. “I love you, Lake.”

“I love you too. I love you both.” After one last kiss to Ev, Lake grabs his coat and distractedly waves goodbye to Mr. C before running out of the house.

I know Mr. C is watching us, but I turn to Ev. “We need to go, baby.”

Ev’s jaw is strong as he looks up at me. “Will I ever find out what’s going on?”

Fuck it, he deserves to know. At least what I’ve managed to piece together. “Yes. I’ll tell you on the way, but I want to get going.”

Ev takes my hand and goes up to his dad. I hug Mr. C before Ev can. “Bye, Mr. C. I’m sorry we have to leave you like this. Thank you for having us.”

Mr. C returns my hug, clutching me tight. I may be way bigger than him, and I have been since my late teens, but his hugs have always brought me comfort and strength.

“It’s ok. I get it. Be safe, all three of you.” He catches both my and Ev’s gazes, letting us know he’s serious.”

“We will, Dad. Thanks.”

Mr. C brings Ev into his embrace. “I love you both. You’re like a second son to me, Logan. And Lake is quickly becoming one as well. I know you are doing something important, but please, be careful. Remember there are people who love you and need you here.”

His words leave a lump in my throat. He has no idea what’s happening, and honestly, neither do I. Yet, he understands enough, and he knows the impact those words will have on me. Mr. C is the only father I really ever had. The last thing I want to do is hurt him.

“I love you too,” I tell him, blinking back tears.

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