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 want anyone thinking that I

they’re going to judge anyone as undeserving it

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57- Worries and worth

seriously.

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 place a quick kiss on his cheek.

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

face still pressed into my hair. I didn’t even do 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, to show him. I’ll have to think about it. But

and happy and I’m not ready

sit with Bellamy for a long time before he gives a reluctant sigh and pulls away from me. He gestures towards the door and I give a silent nod. Without a word, he takes my hand and leads me out

to happen now?” I ask

Alpha’s to explain the situation. It shouldn’t be a problem since there were lots of witnesses to what happened. I won’t let Megan get in any trouble.” He

of the car I am going to have to deal with life again, not to mention I am going to have to deal with Darrien who is sure to sass me about Bellamy and Megan… I’m not sure how she is feeling but it can’t be good and I don’t think I really know how to comfort her. What if she’s mad at me? She didn’t seem mad when we spoke last but she was in shock. Maybe she’s upset that I told her about Tristan. Maybe she’s angry that I waited so long to tell her. I mean there were plenty of times I

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57- Worries and worth

did

face because Bellamy places a hand on my arm

best as he can in the

me.” His voice is calm and reassuring

if she’s angry? Or what if she’s been a wreck this whole time while

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 use someone to talk to about it but that might be weird because you know… brother.” I stop