Strings of Fate

57- Worries and worth

“I didn’t use ALL the methods of courting, there are three main aspects to Shifter courting. First I show that I can provide for you with gifts of food and clothing. Second I show I can protect you, I got the rules about shoes changed at your workplace and literally fought the Vampires to protect you so that counts. That just leaves proving that I will do the same for our children.” He concludes. I choke on my water. Bellamy is out of his seat in a second. He

moves onto the bench next to me, patting and stroking my back as I regain the ability to breathe. He looks like he is trying not to laugh.

“Breathe Ryann, hypothetical children, relax.” Bellamy chuckles and I glare at him.

“And just what kind of new and confusing behaviour can I expect from you regarding this?” I demand. He sobers up a little.

“I’m not entirely sure, usually this would be proven by making an effort to be active in the family, taking care of younger siblings, or elderly family members of the female being

courted…” He trails off.

“… and I don’t have any.” I conclude with a deep sigh. Bellamy begins rubbing light circles on my lower back again.

to prove

“Hey, don’t worry about it. You have us now, and I’ll work out some way it to you.”

He sounds determined. I shrug.

“It doesn’t really matter, you don’t need to prove anything to me.” I inform him. He drops his

gaze.

to me. It would be considered almost… shameful if I couldn’t fulfil at least the three basic expectations of courtship. I don’t

to please Canine and Avian Alphas, pretty much all the Shifters love you, or at least respect you. If they’re going to judge anyone as undeserving it would probably be me. I saw the way those girls giggled and stared after you.” I mean the words as a joke, mostly

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57- Worries and worth

seriously.

idiots.” He says this so passionately that I can’t help but flush bright red. I take a calming breath then before I can talk myself out of it, I lean forward and

reaction. Bellamy is frozen, staring straight ahead and I’m not totally sure he is breathing. I shuffle in the seat awkwardly a moment and the movement draws his gaze to me. Finally, he reacts. He puts an arm around my shoulder and pulls me into his chest. I got willingly, if only to

anything, he’s usually the one taking care of me. I should tell him how I feel, say something, but I’m too embarrassed. Maybe I can do something for him,

I’m not ready

silent nod. Without a word, he takes my hand and leads me out to the car, keeping me close by his side. We are almost back to his home when

happen now?” I

point in the next few weeks with the other Alpha’s to explain the situation. It shouldn’t be a problem since there were

Bellamy and Megan… I’m not sure how she is feeling but it can’t be good and I

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57- Worries and worth

I did

be showing on my face because Bellamy

as best as he can in

wrong? You’re overthinking something. Talk to me.” His voice is calm and reassuring and I take a deep breath

angry? Or what if she’s been a wreck this whole time while we were just sleeping and getting food? I am an awful friend.” I’m on

am I even supposed to say to her now? So sorry you had to kill your ex–fiance. But hey, on the bright side your actual fated mate is here to help pick up the pieces and while we’re on the topic, I kissed your brother and could really