The Children of Light - Book Two
Chapter Fourteen
This piece of fiction contains supernatural themes and sexual interactions between consenting male adults. Please do not read this if it is illegal where you are, or you are not of age to do so.
All characters are fictional and any similarities to known actual people are coincidental, unless otherwise specified.
Visit the blog to see visualisations of the characters throughout the story. As always your feedback is important and always welcome.
Alexander Phoenix - [email protected]
All characters are fictional and any similarities to known actual people are coincidental, unless otherwise specified.
Visit the blog to see visualisations of the characters throughout the story. As always your feedback is important and always welcome.
Alexander Phoenix - [email protected]
‘Good morning my love.’ Alex said softly as he walked quietly to the side of the bed. Quinn’s eyes flickered open slowly as he sat up in the bed swiftly. ‘Easy babe, no need to rush.’
‘What’s the time?’ Quinn asked in confusion as he looked around the room which seemed unfamiliar to him. Eventually he came to his senses and realised he was in a spare room in Mrs. Braddocks house.
‘Just gone 7 am my love.’ Alex said tenderly as he sat beside Quinn on the edge of the bed, a bundled Kian in his protective arms, happily suckling on a bottle of formula.
‘Has he been awake long?’ The blond asked softly, noticing his husband was naked and holding their son tenderly.
‘Maybe fifteen minutes. He’s a quiet baby.’ Alex said softly as he leaned over and deposited the babe into the arms of his husband. Quinn shuffled carefully into a more comfortable position and held the bottle for his son as Alex stood up and pulled on some clothes.
‘Going somewhere my love?’ Quinn asked watching his husband with mild sadness as the beautiful physique disappeared under a pair of sweat pants and hooded jersey.
‘I thought I’d surprise everyone with breakfast.’ Alex said with a large smile. ‘I don’t know the last time Mamma had breakfast made for her, so thought I’d treat her.’ Quinn’s thousand watt smile flashed from the bed as he latched onto the idea.
‘Lemme get up and help.’ The blond said excitedly as Alex swooped over and collected Kian, watching with hungry eyes as his lithe bodied husband slipped out of bed and clothed himself in similar dress.
The two men walked softly through the house and down into the kitchen, Kian cooing softly, his bright blue eyes open completely as he watched the space above Quinn’s head.
‘What are you looking at?’ Quinn asked of his son softly, looking down into the arms of his husband, where Kian lay contentedly, tiny fists waving in front of his face.
‘Is he looking at you?’ Alex asked as they walked into the kitchen, Quinn pulling the portable cot across the floor near to the kitchen island.
‘I don’t know.’ Quinn said turning back to Alex and seeing a sight that both frightened and comforted him. Standing behind Alex, at a rather disconcerting seven foot height, and more solid than his normal transparency, his flaming attire not as distinct as usual, stood the fire spirit Bael, looking down over Alex’s shoulder to the bundle that was Kian.
‘Bael?’ Quinn asked uncertainly of his spirit guardian.
‘Forgive me.’ The spirit said in his echoing voice. ‘The child is important?’ He asked of the blond. Quinn nodded affirmatively.
‘To us, absolutely.’ Quinn said as his husband lowered the baby into the portable cot and stood beside his husband, now looking at the visible spirits, Bael and Cerberus.
‘What’s up guys?’ Alex asked of the two guardians, Cerbz skipping around excitedly as Bael turned to face the Italian and Canadian.
‘The child is yours, and is important. I wish to guard him, like he is a part of my master.’ Bael said with a slight bow of the head.
‘Bael, I’m not your master.’ Quinn said with a blush of embarrassment.
‘You may not think so.’ The tall fire spirit said with a shade of humour. ‘Regardless, I will guard over him.’ The spirit said with unrestrained pride.
‘Ah, who better to protect the spirit of the Sun, but a spirit of fire, and the guardian of the Underworld?’ Quinn said with a smile, one which the tall spirit returned, albeit looking more like a terrifying grimace. ‘Thank you Bael.’ Quinn said genuinely as Alex nodded, a smile plastered across his face.
‘The child can see us?’ Bael said looking down into the cot and noticing the smile of delight on Kian’s face, a gurgling coo bubbling from the small mouth. Alex concentrated for a moment and smiled.
‘He sees you, and knows what you are.’ The Italian said proudly.
‘Then we shall guard him.’ Bael said with pride and dedication. Alex nodded in agreement as Quinn’s heart filled with love and devotion, a solitary tear of happiness escaping his eye.
‘Let’s get breakfast started.’ Alex stated as he swept into the kitchen area, pulling out pots, pans and plates. Quinn smiled to the fire spirit and joined his husband, knowing his son was well taken care of in his stead.
Half an hour later and the two men had pancakes, bacon, egg and toast ready to serve as Mrs. Braddock came into the kitchen dressed in her house coat.
‘Caro?’ Aurelia said uncertainly as she stepped up to the kitchen island.
‘Good morning Mamma.’ Alex beamed seeing his mother. He swooped over swiftly and kissed her softly on the cheek. ‘Breakfast is moments away.’
‘Come and have a seat Mamma.’ Quinn called from the dining table which he was setting. Mrs. Braddock smiled to herself and walked slowly to the dining table, passing the cot that held Kian. She stopped and looked in to check on him and gasped when Bael materialised on the opposite side of the cot.
‘Apologies Matriarch.’ Bael said kindly, realising he had scared Mrs. Braddock.
‘You’re… you’re the fire spirit?’ Aurelia said shakily, her eyes fixed on the somewhat terrifying face of the spirit.
‘Bael.’ The fire spirit said bowing respectfully.
‘Pay him no mind Mamma. He’s pledged to protect Kian, like he does for Quinn.’ Alex called from the kitchen, carrying a plate of food to the table. Mrs. Braddock observed the fire spirit for a few moments before deciding that there was naught she could do about it. She turned and sat at the table and moments later the thunder of several pairs of feet sounded on the stairwell.
‘Hope you’ve made enough bambino.’ Aurelia said, taking a seat at the head of the table.
‘There’s plenty here for everyone.’ Alex announced loudly as Mikhail, Fabrizio, Callum and Nikolai came thundering into the dining room and sat themselves at the large table.
‘Dig in.’ Alex announced once everyone was seated. While everyone plated up, he shuffled over to the baby cot and collected Kian from the mattress, smiling to Bael who watched his every move.
‘I will take Cerberus and monitor the property.’ The fire spirit said with a nod to the Italian.
‘Thank you Bael.’ Alex said with a wink as he returned to the table, sitting the babe in the crook of his arm as he began to eat his breakfast.
The blond man sat quietly on the back deck, gazing off sightlessly while his son lay on his back atop a woollen sheepskin, happily cooing to himself. He was deeply entranced in the vision playing before his eyes; a woman with soft white skin and long dark hair, sitting forward, her hair a curtain around her face. She sat back and stood, and was suddenly standing in front of Quinn. She opened her arms as she stared into his eyes. Quinn looked back into the pale hazel eyes, tears brimming and set to fall, as he himself began to feel sad, she forced two heavy objects into the blond’s arms. Breaking contact with the saddened eyes, he looked down and saw two radiant balls of white light, one in each arm. Quinn looked up to the woman questioningly and saw nothing.
‘Quinn?’ The Brit asked after clearing his throat. ‘Quinn?’ He asked again. The blond jerked at the unexpectedness of the Brit’s voice.
‘Sorry?’ Quinn asked, shaking his head clear. ‘Did you say something?’ He asked, looking up at the concerned look on Callum’s face.
‘I was just seeing if you were alright. You looked miles away.’ The Brit said softly noticing that Quinn’s eyes were misted with unfallen tears.
‘I’m alright. Sorry, was daydreaming.’ The blond said, leaning over and scooping his son up from the woolen blanket.
‘Would you like a coffee or tea?’ Callum asked gently.
‘A coffee would be lovely thank you.’ The blond said, standing up and shuffling his son to his hip, following his husband’s cousin inside.
‘Alex said they won’t be much longer.’ Callum said, pouring the boiled water into a cup and stirring. He handed the cup to the blond who took a tentative sip.
‘What’s the time?’ Quinn asked suddenly.
‘It’s barely 3 pm.’ Callum said checking the clock on the wall.
‘Shit, I didn’t even notice.’ Quinn said with concern as he shuffled over to the baby changing table and within seconds had his son’s diaper changed.
‘Are you alright Quinn?’ Callum asked while looking at the blond’s face which seemed more flushed than normal.
‘Yeah, I’m alright. I just didn’t realise what the time was.’ The Canadian said with a sheepish smile. ‘I was daydreaming, and it seems I got lost in the moment.’
‘Anything good?’ Callum asked with a smile. He looked the handsome blond man over briefly, silently confirming that if his cousin hadn’t already claimed him, he would have very much liked an opportunity to bed the Canadian.
‘Oh, silly stuff, mostly. I was wondering what Alex would think of having more children.’ The blond said with a blush as he picked up his son and walked back to the kitchen island. He re-claimed his coffee and nodded to the door, gesturing for Callum to join him outside.
‘More children huh?’ Callum asked curiously. ‘One’s not enough?’ He giggled.
‘I was an only child, and while I loved my mum, and my nana, I would have loved to have had a younger brother or sister. And Alex’s brother and sister are both lovely. I want Kian to have siblings.’ Quinn answered honestly, causing Callum to wipe away the inappropriate thoughts of the Canadian.
‘Have you spoken with Alex about that?’ Callum asked, watching the blond laying the babe back on the sheepskin rug.
‘Not yet.’ Quinn answered as he sat a little distance from the child and lit a cigarette.
‘Maybe you should?’ Callum suggested softly. ‘You two are going to make fantastic parents.’ The Brit said with a smile.
‘Thanks Callum.’ Quinn said, returning the smile with his own. ‘How’re things with you and Nikolai?’ Quinn noticed the array of emotions play across the Brit’s face and immediately decided it wasn’t the best of questions to ask.
‘I like him. He’s nice. But, I don’t know.’ The Brit said quietly, almost as if to himself.
‘Something wrong?’ Quinn questioned softly.
‘No, it’s just, I don’t think there’s much of a future there. I mean, he’s a lovely guy, and he’s handsome, but I think it’s more of a physical attraction, rather than an emotional one.’ Callum answered honestly.
‘I think I understand.’ Quinn said smiling warmly. The two men sat in silence, finishing their cigarettes, each man lost in his own thoughts; Quinn’s about his potential new family, Callum about the prospects of finding a lover as warm and dedicated as the blond.
‘We’re back.’ Alex’s voice sounded from the kitchen. Ditching his cigarette end in the ashtray, Quinn walked to the French doors and smiled to his husband who was depositing grocery bags on the kitchen island.
‘We missed you.’ Quinn said with a heart lightening smile. Alex suddenly appeared in front of his husband and had his arms wrapped around the blond in the blink of an eye.
‘As we missed you.’ Alex said softly into his husband’s ear. Alex heard a gurgle of joy and looked over to the swaying limbs of his son.
‘Go. I’ll help Mamma.’ Quinn said, releasing his husband and pushing him toward their son, as he walked into the kitchen to help his mother in law.
‘Sofia and Franco are going to come over for dinner caro.’ Aurelia said as Quinn came into the kitchen and helped put away the groceries.
‘Would you like me to cook dinner?’ Quinn offered politely.
‘Thank you caro, but Colosso and Fabrizio have said they will make dinner.’ Mrs. Braddock said gently hugging the blond with one arm. ‘What’s wrong bambino?’ Aurelia asked of Quinn, noticing the slight sadness about him.
‘Nothing Mamma. I was daydreaming earlier and I guess I haven’t quite recovered.’ Quinn answered honestly.
‘What were you dreaming about?’ Aurelia asked curiously, surreptitiously keeping an eye on the blond as she continued with the groceries.
‘I was thinking about how wonderful it would be having more children. Some siblings for Kian.’ Quinn answered with a sheepish smile.
‘Now that would be wonderful.’ Aurelia said as her own eyes misted over in the thoughts of more grandchildren. Alex’s ring tone cut through the comfortable silence as the two continued with the groceries.
‘Sì?’ Alex answered his phone, having seen who was calling.
‘What?’ He asked louder than he intended.
‘Get here now!’ He said with slight anger through his teeth.
‘What’s wrong bambino?’ Aurelia asked as Alex stomped into the dining room.
‘Ugh, I need a wine.’ Alex said as he put his phone on the bench and went looking for a bottle of wine. Quinn followed his husband through the house and down into the cellar. Closing the door behind him, the blond approached Alex who was busy looking for a particular wine.
‘What happened my love?’ Quinn asked, coming up beside the Italian. Alex found the bottle he was looking for and took four out of the shelf. Alex, who had wrapped an arm around the four bottles turned to his husband, Quinn noticing the anger dissipating from the blue eyes.
‘Sorry beautiful, I’m not angry at you, or Mamma.’ The Italian said, swooping his husband into his free arm and snuggling warmly.
‘What’s happened?’ Quinn asked again, a little more resolutely than before. Alex sighed, a long exhalation of breath.
‘Don’t tell Mamma just yet, but that was Sofia.’ Alex said quietly, lowering his face into the top of Quinn’s head, breathing in the soft scent of his husband.
‘And?’ Quinn prodded, hoping for a better explanation than that.
‘Sofia is pregnant.’ Alex blurted out, unsure of how to be more tactful about it. Quinn’s eyes flew open in mild shock as Alex continued. ‘She doesn’t want it.’
‘So why are you angry?’ Quinn asked gently.
‘I don’t know.’ Alex confessed, surprised that he didn’t know why he was angry.
‘Just relax my love. It will be alright.’ Quinn said, smiling to himself privately. ‘When will she be here?’
‘Soon, I guess.’ Alex said, snuffling the top of his husband’s head. ‘Come, let’s head back up.’ The Italian said, breaking the embrace and wandering to the door. Quinn collected another two bottles of the wine and followed his husband out of the cellar and back into the dining room. As they set the bottles on the counter, they heard the clicking of heels on the hallway floor. Alex waved a hand and several wine glasses appeared on the kitchen island counter and was filled with wine in the next second.
‘Alessandro?’ Sofia called softly, fear evident in the timid voice. Alex turned to the doorway and walked with his sister when he saw her. Her eyes were bloodshot, tears trickling down her cheeks. Alex pulled his younger sister into a hug and held her as she cried against her brother’s chest.
Quinn whisked two glasses of wine outside to Callum and Aurelia who were both looking after Kian, as Quinn raced back inside to the kitchen island. Not seeing what he wanted, he closed his eyes and muttered a silent plea. Opening his eyes, he saw a Glencairn glass of whisky. He scooped it up and raced back outside.
‘Mamma. Drink this.’ The blond said pushing the glass into Aurelia’s free hand. The woman looked at the glass and to the blond with confusion. ‘Just drink it. Trust me!’
‘Caro?’ Aurelia queried but Quinn just shook his head.
‘Drink!’ The blond said urgently as Aurelia raised the glass and downed the spirit in one.
‘What was that about?’ Aurelia asked with mild indignation.
‘You’ll find out soon enough. Just drink your wine, and you’ll be fine.’ Quinn said hurriedly as he raced back into the dining room where Sofia had recovered herself.
‘Hi Sofia.’ Quinn said standing beside the brother and sister with two glasses of wine. He offered one to his husband whose eyes were red and moist. He took the glass and swallowed the drink in two large mouthfuls. Sofia took the second glass and eyed it cautiously. Alex glared at the glass as if it were a grenade and then to his husband, the anger disappearing instantly at the reproaching look on the blond’s face.
‘One glass won’t hurt.’ Quinn said, puffing himself up to his fullest, challenging his husband to try his luck. Alex smiled, embarrassed and turned to his sister.
‘He’s right.’ Alex said demurely. ‘Bring it out onto the deck and let’s get this over with.’ Alex led his sister out through the French doors with Quinn following up the rear with his own glass of wine and two bottles tucked under his arm.
‘You’re early Sofia.’ Aurelia said with surprise as she took her daughter into a hug.
‘Sit Mamma. I have some news.’ Sofia said nervously as her mother eyed her curiously. Aurelia sat back in her seat as Sofia sat across the table from her mother, Alex sitting to her left, Quinn to her right. Callum was sitting next to Aurelia with Kian bouncing in his lap contentedly, his eyes curiously cast upon his aunt. Sofia watched the baby for a few moments before her mother interrupted.
‘What’s wrong bambino?’ Mrs. Braddock asked, her unblinking gaze upon her daughter. Sofia blinked a few times to clear her mind and looked to her older brother who watched her with soft, loving eyes. Smiling a little, she turned to her mother and took a deep breath.
‘Mamma, I’m pregnant.’ Sofia blurted out quickly in fear. Quinn watched on as Aurelia’s face did an amazing impression of a cuttlefish, changing from her normal olive tone, to bright red, white, blue, red again and back to her natural skin tone, all in the span of a few seconds. Suppressing a mad urge to laugh, Quinn smiled when Aurelia’s eyes softened.
‘Really?’ Mrs. Braddock asked softly.
‘Sì Mamma. But I’m not going to keep it.’ Sofia said, raising a hand to stop the oncoming protest. Now Quinn watched on as the matriarch’s face flushed bright red and was sure he could see steam coming from the woman’s ears.
‘What?’ Aurelia gasped, as anger and sadness fought for dominance over her face. Quinn smiled to himself and waited a few seconds in the uncomfortable silence before speaking.
‘Mamma, are you alright?’ Quinn asked of his mother in law. She turned to the blond, who would have laughed at the panicked look on her face, if he didn’t value his life so much. Aurelia turned back to her daughter and spoke after a few preliminary attempts at speech.
‘Abortion?’ Mrs. Braddock whispered, as if she were swearing at a priest.
‘Well, I haven’t thought that far ahead.’ Sofia said looking down at her hands. Quinn watched Aurelia carefully and felt an intrusion on his mind and a voice whispering in the corner of his thoughts.
‘You’ve got it planned out already, don’t you?’ Alex’s voice said to him telepathically.
‘Well, what do you think?’ Quinn responded glancing to his husband for the first time since sitting at the table.
‘Can we do it? Another child?’ Alex questioned, a look of surrender shrouding his face.
‘Children.’ Quinn replied with a smile. ‘She’s carrying twins.’ Quinn laughed out loud when he saw the stupefied look on his husband’s face. Aurelia, Callum and Sofia all looked at the blond as if he had lost his mind. Giggling to himself, he raised his hands by way of apology and looked at the three people.
‘I’m sorry, I’m not laughing at you all.’ The blond began explaining. ‘Alex and I were having a private conversation and when I told him something, he looked like a dog who had his bone taken off him.’ Aurelia chuckled as she saw her son’s face and then looked back to Quinn.
‘So, care to explain what made him look like that?’ Aurelia asked of her son in law, jabbing a thumb in the direction of her son. Quinn smiled to Aurelia and began to explain.
‘I had a vision earlier, of a woman handing me two bundles of light. The woman looked remarkably like Sofia.’ He said glancing to Sofia with a smile, who returned it meekly. ‘And now, here she is, telling you that she is pregnant and doesn’t want to keep it. I have already thought about it, and if Sofia is willing, Alex and I would like to adopt the children.’ He finished, glancing from Aurelia to a rather stunned looking Sofia.
‘Children?’ Alex’s sister stammered nervously. Quinn nodded happily.
‘You're having twins.’ Quinn said with one of his trademark smiles, causing the shock and nerves of his mother and sister in law to dissipate.
‘Twins?’ Sofia and Aurelia muttered in unison.
‘Yes. And if you are agreeable, we would like to adopt them.’ Alex said smiling to his husband.
‘I… well… I…’ Sofia stammered incoherently, unable to form a sentence.
‘Think on it.’ Quinn said softly as he placed a hand on top of hers and squeezed gently.
Even with the precipitating news of the oncoming pregnancy, dinner was a wonderful engagement. Mikhail and Fabrizio had outdone themselves, plating a stunning three course meal with influences from their combined Russian and Italian heritages. Each course was eaten with appreciation and voracious appetites. Eventually the diners slowly prepared themselves for bed as Alex, Quinn, Aurelia and Sofia, in a combined effort, cleaned the kitchen and dining room. As Quinn put away the final dishes, he turned to his husband who immediately wrapped loving arms around him.
‘I love you.’ Alex whispered quietly into the blond’s ear as he snuggled him to his body.
‘And I you.’ Quinn responded lovingly. Alex kissed the blond atop his head and both men turned to Sofia and Aurelia who were sitting companionably close to one another at the kitchen island, Sofia whispering quietly to her mother. Aurelia nodded in agreement to something and the two women looked up expectantly.
‘Alex, Quinn, I’ve had a think about it, and Mamma agrees.’ The younger woman said with a half smile. Alex and Quinn, the blond still enveloped in his husband’s arms, both waited with bated breath. ‘I am going to carry them to full term, and I would be honoured for you to adopt them.’ Alex exhaled softly at the news whilst Quinn’s face exploded in his radiant smile.
‘Thank you Sofia.’ Quinn said kindly, as tears brimmed his eyes with happiness.
‘Sofia, thank you so much. Would you mind though, as they come to an age of understanding, that we explain to them the situation?’ Alex prompted his sister gently.
‘What do you mean?’ Sofia asked with mild confusion.
‘Well, you are obviously going to be their aunt, but when they come to an age where they can comprehend, I think it would be good to let them know that you are their biological mother. I think with a little guidance, and a bit of understanding, they will come to understand the situation, and perhaps be a little more developed in that regard.’ Alex explained carefully.
‘What about Kian?’ Aurelia asked, her face mirroring Quinn’s, a mask of gentle confusion.
‘He’s different. He has no biological parents. I haven’t quite come up with a plan for that, but, I have a few years yet before we need to seriously consider it.’ The Italian responded delicately.
‘Okay. That sounds alright I guess.’ Sofia advised her brother with a smile.
‘Excellent.’ The Italian said with a smile.
‘I have a scan on Thursday morning. Did you want to come?’ Sofia asked of the two men.
‘I’d love to.’ Quinn said excitedly as Aurelia and Alex both smiled at his enthusiasm. Sofia’s eyes misted over as fresh tears began to fall. Aurelia tightened her embrace around her daughter and held her as she cried.
‘I will try to come along, but I have a bit of work stuff to sort out this week. If I can find the time, I’ll be there.’ Alex said with uncertainty, unsure if he would be able to.
Alex was in the process of resigning from his counselling practice, in an effort to provide more time for his family, which by the looks was about to double in size in a few short months.
‘I’m going to have to call the project manager and make some modifications to the plans. We’re going to need another nursery and room for these two.’ Alex said nodding to his sister, whose tears had ceased falling. With a smile to the woman, he added, ‘They’ll need somewhere for their aunt to play with them.’ Sofia giggled quietly as she rested her head on her mother’s shoulder.
‘I think I should head home now.’ She said eventually, forcing herself to straighten up and stand.
‘Come by tomorrow caro.’ Aurelia said standing up with her daughter. Sofia flitted to her brother and gave him a warm hug.
‘Thank you brother.’ Sofia said softly. She released her brother and took Quinn into her arms. ‘You too il raggio di luce.’ She whispered as Quinn squeezed her tenderly.
‘See you tomorrow Sofia.’ Quinn said as he separated from the woman, who was already being led to the front door by her mother.
‘Let’s get to bed my love.’ Alex said with a husky voice as he pulled Quinn into his side, and with the ease of a weightlifter hoisted the smaller man over his shoulder, and mimicking the behaviour of a cave man, whooped and hollered up the stairs comically.
‘Alex, when you speak with the project manager, can you do a favour for me please?’ Quinn asked softly as he walked with his husband to the garage. Alex opened the internal access and stepped inside, Quinn following with Kian perched on his hip.
‘What’s up love?’ The Italian asked with marginal concern.
‘Nothing serious babe.’ The blond smiled, sensing his husband’s worry. ‘Callum and I had a small chat yesterday and I don’t think he and Nikolai will be together much longer.’
‘Really? What makes you say that?’ Alex asked raising an eyebrow.
‘Callum told me that it wasn’t a very strong relationship. My question is, is there a possibility of separate rooms for them? One in the house, and one in the guest house.’ Quinn questioned.
‘There should be, I guess. I’ll chat with Matt about it.’ Alex nodded.
‘Thank you babe.’ Quinn said, leaning over and kissing his husband softly. Kian, who had been quiet until this point, squealed with delight as he deftly grabbed a handful of Alex’s hair and yanked on it.
‘Ouch!’ Alex laughed as he tried to free his hair from Kian’s chubby little fist. ‘I’ll miss you too.’
‘Be safe today, my love. And hopefully I’ll see you at the hospital.’ Quinn said smiling to his husband.
‘I’ll try my best, I promise.’ The Italian confirmed with a nod. With a smile for his husband and son, he climbed into his Q7 and pressed the open button on his garage remote, turned the car engine over and waved as he drove out onto the driveway. Quinn stood waving with Kian squealing in delight over the roar of the engine, his arms flailing in childish farewell.
‘Come on Key, let’s get you some breakfast.’ Quinn said with a smile, as he closed the garage door and made his way into the kitchen.
‘Good morning caro, coffee on the table, Kian’s breakfast as well.’ Aurelia said happily when she spotted the blond and the child coming into the kitchen. Quinn walked over to the table and sat with his son in his lap, next to his mother in law.
‘Mamma, would you like to come with me to Sofia’s appointment? I don’t think Alex is going to make it.’ Quinn asked as he shuffled Kian around and had a bottle in his mouth, his own coffee in hand.
‘That would be quite nice caro. Yes, I would like to come.’ Aurelia said happily as she popped the last piece of her toast into her mouth.
The two sat in companionable silence while the babe noisily drunk his morning bottle, until eventually Mikhail, Fabrizio, Nikolai and Callum entered the kitchen. Within the first second Quinn could already sense tension between the younger Russian and the Brit, a tension that Aurelia picked up on a few seconds later.
‘Hello Key!’ Callum said, sitting in the free seat next to Quinn. Kian exploded with delight and spat out his bottle, arms flailing, his tiny fingers grabbing at the air in Callum’s direction. Getting the hint, Quinn lifted the child to the tall Brit who took him happily into his arms, cuddling at first but then sitting on his lap and pulling faces at. Quinn stood up and with a look of meaning to Mikhail, gestured his head to the French doors. Quinn stepped through and a few moment’s later, Mikhail came through, closing the door behind himself.
‘Something wrong pip-squeak?’ The giant asked of the smaller man.
‘Have you noticed the tension between Nikolai and Callum?’ The blond said cutting straight to the point.
‘I just put it down to new love.’ Mikhail answered with a goofy grin, but with honesty.
‘Ah. Unfortunately, I don’t think there is any love there.’ Quinn stated with mild sadness. ‘Callum was telling me yesterday that it’s not really going anywhere.’
‘Actually, looking back, Nikolai has been a bit reserved whenever I asked him about Callum.’ Mikhail said with glazed eyes, reliving the near past encounters with the smaller Russian.
‘I was thinking, after I talk with Mamma, we might move Callum into the room next to ours, and give Nikolai a room to himself?’ Quinn suggested, leveling a questioning glance on the giant.
‘I think that might be a good idea.’ Mikhail said, glancing through the window and noticing the awkward glances between Nikolai and Callum from across the table.
‘I’ll take Callum with me to the hospital and tell him then. Maybe while we’re doing that you can talk with Nikolai?’ Quinn asked.
‘Good idea little man.’ The giant said with a smile. The two men embraced warmly and returned inside, taking their seats comfortably and without anyone showing interest.
‘Nicky, would you like to come shopping with me and Fabz today?’ Mikhail asked of his younger and hugely smaller friend.
‘Da.’ The smaller one said instantly, causing a few eyebrows around the table to rise.
‘Callum, would you mind helping me with Kian when I go to the hospital with Sofia?’ Quinn asked quickly of the Brit. Callum glanced down to the bundle of excitable child in his lap and Quinn watched as the Brit’s eyes softened.
‘I’d love to.’ Callum said softly, more to the child than to anyone else.
Quinn sat watching for a few moments as a palpable tension began to develop between Callum and Nikolai. With steeled will and soft heart, Quinn had already put certain plans into place and knew what needed to be done.
‘I’m going to have a shower now. Mamma, can you watch Kian for me please?’ The blond asked as he stood up.
‘I’ll look after him.’ Callum said quickly as he stood up and wandered slowly to the French doors. ‘He’s not far off from sleeping anyway.’
Quinn whisked off to his bedroom and locking the door behind himself he sat in the middle of the room and closed his eyes.
‘Master?’ Bael asked as he materialised in front of the cross-legged blond.
‘Bael, can you and Cebz please, as fast as you can find me two of each of these things please?’ Quinn pleaded of his spirit guardian, telepathically showing him the three items he required.
‘We’ll be back soon.’ The fire spirit said with a nod as he dematerialised. Quinn sat quietly for a few moments thinking of what he needed to do and how he needed to prepare it.
‘Master?’ Bael spoke in his ethereal multi-toned voice, interrupting the blond’s train of thought.
‘Bael, firstly, I’m not your master. We’ve discussed that before. And secondly, thank you. Would you mind helping me with this next part please?’
Bael observed his master for a few quiet moments, already knowing what the blond had planned and whether he would actually be any help in the process.
‘Yes mast… Quinn.’
‘What’s the time?’ Quinn asked in confusion as he looked around the room which seemed unfamiliar to him. Eventually he came to his senses and realised he was in a spare room in Mrs. Braddocks house.
‘Just gone 7 am my love.’ Alex said tenderly as he sat beside Quinn on the edge of the bed, a bundled Kian in his protective arms, happily suckling on a bottle of formula.
‘Has he been awake long?’ The blond asked softly, noticing his husband was naked and holding their son tenderly.
‘Maybe fifteen minutes. He’s a quiet baby.’ Alex said softly as he leaned over and deposited the babe into the arms of his husband. Quinn shuffled carefully into a more comfortable position and held the bottle for his son as Alex stood up and pulled on some clothes.
‘Going somewhere my love?’ Quinn asked watching his husband with mild sadness as the beautiful physique disappeared under a pair of sweat pants and hooded jersey.
‘I thought I’d surprise everyone with breakfast.’ Alex said with a large smile. ‘I don’t know the last time Mamma had breakfast made for her, so thought I’d treat her.’ Quinn’s thousand watt smile flashed from the bed as he latched onto the idea.
‘Lemme get up and help.’ The blond said excitedly as Alex swooped over and collected Kian, watching with hungry eyes as his lithe bodied husband slipped out of bed and clothed himself in similar dress.
The two men walked softly through the house and down into the kitchen, Kian cooing softly, his bright blue eyes open completely as he watched the space above Quinn’s head.
‘What are you looking at?’ Quinn asked of his son softly, looking down into the arms of his husband, where Kian lay contentedly, tiny fists waving in front of his face.
‘Is he looking at you?’ Alex asked as they walked into the kitchen, Quinn pulling the portable cot across the floor near to the kitchen island.
‘I don’t know.’ Quinn said turning back to Alex and seeing a sight that both frightened and comforted him. Standing behind Alex, at a rather disconcerting seven foot height, and more solid than his normal transparency, his flaming attire not as distinct as usual, stood the fire spirit Bael, looking down over Alex’s shoulder to the bundle that was Kian.
‘Bael?’ Quinn asked uncertainly of his spirit guardian.
‘Forgive me.’ The spirit said in his echoing voice. ‘The child is important?’ He asked of the blond. Quinn nodded affirmatively.
‘To us, absolutely.’ Quinn said as his husband lowered the baby into the portable cot and stood beside his husband, now looking at the visible spirits, Bael and Cerberus.
‘What’s up guys?’ Alex asked of the two guardians, Cerbz skipping around excitedly as Bael turned to face the Italian and Canadian.
‘The child is yours, and is important. I wish to guard him, like he is a part of my master.’ Bael said with a slight bow of the head.
‘Bael, I’m not your master.’ Quinn said with a blush of embarrassment.
‘You may not think so.’ The tall fire spirit said with a shade of humour. ‘Regardless, I will guard over him.’ The spirit said with unrestrained pride.
‘Ah, who better to protect the spirit of the Sun, but a spirit of fire, and the guardian of the Underworld?’ Quinn said with a smile, one which the tall spirit returned, albeit looking more like a terrifying grimace. ‘Thank you Bael.’ Quinn said genuinely as Alex nodded, a smile plastered across his face.
‘The child can see us?’ Bael said looking down into the cot and noticing the smile of delight on Kian’s face, a gurgling coo bubbling from the small mouth. Alex concentrated for a moment and smiled.
‘He sees you, and knows what you are.’ The Italian said proudly.
‘Then we shall guard him.’ Bael said with pride and dedication. Alex nodded in agreement as Quinn’s heart filled with love and devotion, a solitary tear of happiness escaping his eye.
‘Let’s get breakfast started.’ Alex stated as he swept into the kitchen area, pulling out pots, pans and plates. Quinn smiled to the fire spirit and joined his husband, knowing his son was well taken care of in his stead.
Half an hour later and the two men had pancakes, bacon, egg and toast ready to serve as Mrs. Braddock came into the kitchen dressed in her house coat.
‘Caro?’ Aurelia said uncertainly as she stepped up to the kitchen island.
‘Good morning Mamma.’ Alex beamed seeing his mother. He swooped over swiftly and kissed her softly on the cheek. ‘Breakfast is moments away.’
‘Come and have a seat Mamma.’ Quinn called from the dining table which he was setting. Mrs. Braddock smiled to herself and walked slowly to the dining table, passing the cot that held Kian. She stopped and looked in to check on him and gasped when Bael materialised on the opposite side of the cot.
‘Apologies Matriarch.’ Bael said kindly, realising he had scared Mrs. Braddock.
‘You’re… you’re the fire spirit?’ Aurelia said shakily, her eyes fixed on the somewhat terrifying face of the spirit.
‘Bael.’ The fire spirit said bowing respectfully.
‘Pay him no mind Mamma. He’s pledged to protect Kian, like he does for Quinn.’ Alex called from the kitchen, carrying a plate of food to the table. Mrs. Braddock observed the fire spirit for a few moments before deciding that there was naught she could do about it. She turned and sat at the table and moments later the thunder of several pairs of feet sounded on the stairwell.
‘Hope you’ve made enough bambino.’ Aurelia said, taking a seat at the head of the table.
‘There’s plenty here for everyone.’ Alex announced loudly as Mikhail, Fabrizio, Callum and Nikolai came thundering into the dining room and sat themselves at the large table.
‘Dig in.’ Alex announced once everyone was seated. While everyone plated up, he shuffled over to the baby cot and collected Kian from the mattress, smiling to Bael who watched his every move.
‘I will take Cerberus and monitor the property.’ The fire spirit said with a nod to the Italian.
‘Thank you Bael.’ Alex said with a wink as he returned to the table, sitting the babe in the crook of his arm as he began to eat his breakfast.
The blond man sat quietly on the back deck, gazing off sightlessly while his son lay on his back atop a woollen sheepskin, happily cooing to himself. He was deeply entranced in the vision playing before his eyes; a woman with soft white skin and long dark hair, sitting forward, her hair a curtain around her face. She sat back and stood, and was suddenly standing in front of Quinn. She opened her arms as she stared into his eyes. Quinn looked back into the pale hazel eyes, tears brimming and set to fall, as he himself began to feel sad, she forced two heavy objects into the blond’s arms. Breaking contact with the saddened eyes, he looked down and saw two radiant balls of white light, one in each arm. Quinn looked up to the woman questioningly and saw nothing.
‘Quinn?’ The Brit asked after clearing his throat. ‘Quinn?’ He asked again. The blond jerked at the unexpectedness of the Brit’s voice.
‘Sorry?’ Quinn asked, shaking his head clear. ‘Did you say something?’ He asked, looking up at the concerned look on Callum’s face.
‘I was just seeing if you were alright. You looked miles away.’ The Brit said softly noticing that Quinn’s eyes were misted with unfallen tears.
‘I’m alright. Sorry, was daydreaming.’ The blond said, leaning over and scooping his son up from the woolen blanket.
‘Would you like a coffee or tea?’ Callum asked gently.
‘A coffee would be lovely thank you.’ The blond said, standing up and shuffling his son to his hip, following his husband’s cousin inside.
‘Alex said they won’t be much longer.’ Callum said, pouring the boiled water into a cup and stirring. He handed the cup to the blond who took a tentative sip.
‘What’s the time?’ Quinn asked suddenly.
‘It’s barely 3 pm.’ Callum said checking the clock on the wall.
‘Shit, I didn’t even notice.’ Quinn said with concern as he shuffled over to the baby changing table and within seconds had his son’s diaper changed.
‘Are you alright Quinn?’ Callum asked while looking at the blond’s face which seemed more flushed than normal.
‘Yeah, I’m alright. I just didn’t realise what the time was.’ The Canadian said with a sheepish smile. ‘I was daydreaming, and it seems I got lost in the moment.’
‘Anything good?’ Callum asked with a smile. He looked the handsome blond man over briefly, silently confirming that if his cousin hadn’t already claimed him, he would have very much liked an opportunity to bed the Canadian.
‘Oh, silly stuff, mostly. I was wondering what Alex would think of having more children.’ The blond said with a blush as he picked up his son and walked back to the kitchen island. He re-claimed his coffee and nodded to the door, gesturing for Callum to join him outside.
‘More children huh?’ Callum asked curiously. ‘One’s not enough?’ He giggled.
‘I was an only child, and while I loved my mum, and my nana, I would have loved to have had a younger brother or sister. And Alex’s brother and sister are both lovely. I want Kian to have siblings.’ Quinn answered honestly, causing Callum to wipe away the inappropriate thoughts of the Canadian.
‘Have you spoken with Alex about that?’ Callum asked, watching the blond laying the babe back on the sheepskin rug.
‘Not yet.’ Quinn answered as he sat a little distance from the child and lit a cigarette.
‘Maybe you should?’ Callum suggested softly. ‘You two are going to make fantastic parents.’ The Brit said with a smile.
‘Thanks Callum.’ Quinn said, returning the smile with his own. ‘How’re things with you and Nikolai?’ Quinn noticed the array of emotions play across the Brit’s face and immediately decided it wasn’t the best of questions to ask.
‘I like him. He’s nice. But, I don’t know.’ The Brit said quietly, almost as if to himself.
‘Something wrong?’ Quinn questioned softly.
‘No, it’s just, I don’t think there’s much of a future there. I mean, he’s a lovely guy, and he’s handsome, but I think it’s more of a physical attraction, rather than an emotional one.’ Callum answered honestly.
‘I think I understand.’ Quinn said smiling warmly. The two men sat in silence, finishing their cigarettes, each man lost in his own thoughts; Quinn’s about his potential new family, Callum about the prospects of finding a lover as warm and dedicated as the blond.
‘We’re back.’ Alex’s voice sounded from the kitchen. Ditching his cigarette end in the ashtray, Quinn walked to the French doors and smiled to his husband who was depositing grocery bags on the kitchen island.
‘We missed you.’ Quinn said with a heart lightening smile. Alex suddenly appeared in front of his husband and had his arms wrapped around the blond in the blink of an eye.
‘As we missed you.’ Alex said softly into his husband’s ear. Alex heard a gurgle of joy and looked over to the swaying limbs of his son.
‘Go. I’ll help Mamma.’ Quinn said, releasing his husband and pushing him toward their son, as he walked into the kitchen to help his mother in law.
‘Sofia and Franco are going to come over for dinner caro.’ Aurelia said as Quinn came into the kitchen and helped put away the groceries.
‘Would you like me to cook dinner?’ Quinn offered politely.
‘Thank you caro, but Colosso and Fabrizio have said they will make dinner.’ Mrs. Braddock said gently hugging the blond with one arm. ‘What’s wrong bambino?’ Aurelia asked of Quinn, noticing the slight sadness about him.
‘Nothing Mamma. I was daydreaming earlier and I guess I haven’t quite recovered.’ Quinn answered honestly.
‘What were you dreaming about?’ Aurelia asked curiously, surreptitiously keeping an eye on the blond as she continued with the groceries.
‘I was thinking about how wonderful it would be having more children. Some siblings for Kian.’ Quinn answered with a sheepish smile.
‘Now that would be wonderful.’ Aurelia said as her own eyes misted over in the thoughts of more grandchildren. Alex’s ring tone cut through the comfortable silence as the two continued with the groceries.
‘Sì?’ Alex answered his phone, having seen who was calling.
‘What?’ He asked louder than he intended.
‘Get here now!’ He said with slight anger through his teeth.
‘What’s wrong bambino?’ Aurelia asked as Alex stomped into the dining room.
‘Ugh, I need a wine.’ Alex said as he put his phone on the bench and went looking for a bottle of wine. Quinn followed his husband through the house and down into the cellar. Closing the door behind him, the blond approached Alex who was busy looking for a particular wine.
‘What happened my love?’ Quinn asked, coming up beside the Italian. Alex found the bottle he was looking for and took four out of the shelf. Alex, who had wrapped an arm around the four bottles turned to his husband, Quinn noticing the anger dissipating from the blue eyes.
‘Sorry beautiful, I’m not angry at you, or Mamma.’ The Italian said, swooping his husband into his free arm and snuggling warmly.
‘What’s happened?’ Quinn asked again, a little more resolutely than before. Alex sighed, a long exhalation of breath.
‘Don’t tell Mamma just yet, but that was Sofia.’ Alex said quietly, lowering his face into the top of Quinn’s head, breathing in the soft scent of his husband.
‘And?’ Quinn prodded, hoping for a better explanation than that.
‘Sofia is pregnant.’ Alex blurted out, unsure of how to be more tactful about it. Quinn’s eyes flew open in mild shock as Alex continued. ‘She doesn’t want it.’
‘So why are you angry?’ Quinn asked gently.
‘I don’t know.’ Alex confessed, surprised that he didn’t know why he was angry.
‘Just relax my love. It will be alright.’ Quinn said, smiling to himself privately. ‘When will she be here?’
‘Soon, I guess.’ Alex said, snuffling the top of his husband’s head. ‘Come, let’s head back up.’ The Italian said, breaking the embrace and wandering to the door. Quinn collected another two bottles of the wine and followed his husband out of the cellar and back into the dining room. As they set the bottles on the counter, they heard the clicking of heels on the hallway floor. Alex waved a hand and several wine glasses appeared on the kitchen island counter and was filled with wine in the next second.
‘Alessandro?’ Sofia called softly, fear evident in the timid voice. Alex turned to the doorway and walked with his sister when he saw her. Her eyes were bloodshot, tears trickling down her cheeks. Alex pulled his younger sister into a hug and held her as she cried against her brother’s chest.
Quinn whisked two glasses of wine outside to Callum and Aurelia who were both looking after Kian, as Quinn raced back inside to the kitchen island. Not seeing what he wanted, he closed his eyes and muttered a silent plea. Opening his eyes, he saw a Glencairn glass of whisky. He scooped it up and raced back outside.
‘Mamma. Drink this.’ The blond said pushing the glass into Aurelia’s free hand. The woman looked at the glass and to the blond with confusion. ‘Just drink it. Trust me!’
‘Caro?’ Aurelia queried but Quinn just shook his head.
‘Drink!’ The blond said urgently as Aurelia raised the glass and downed the spirit in one.
‘What was that about?’ Aurelia asked with mild indignation.
‘You’ll find out soon enough. Just drink your wine, and you’ll be fine.’ Quinn said hurriedly as he raced back into the dining room where Sofia had recovered herself.
‘Hi Sofia.’ Quinn said standing beside the brother and sister with two glasses of wine. He offered one to his husband whose eyes were red and moist. He took the glass and swallowed the drink in two large mouthfuls. Sofia took the second glass and eyed it cautiously. Alex glared at the glass as if it were a grenade and then to his husband, the anger disappearing instantly at the reproaching look on the blond’s face.
‘One glass won’t hurt.’ Quinn said, puffing himself up to his fullest, challenging his husband to try his luck. Alex smiled, embarrassed and turned to his sister.
‘He’s right.’ Alex said demurely. ‘Bring it out onto the deck and let’s get this over with.’ Alex led his sister out through the French doors with Quinn following up the rear with his own glass of wine and two bottles tucked under his arm.
‘You’re early Sofia.’ Aurelia said with surprise as she took her daughter into a hug.
‘Sit Mamma. I have some news.’ Sofia said nervously as her mother eyed her curiously. Aurelia sat back in her seat as Sofia sat across the table from her mother, Alex sitting to her left, Quinn to her right. Callum was sitting next to Aurelia with Kian bouncing in his lap contentedly, his eyes curiously cast upon his aunt. Sofia watched the baby for a few moments before her mother interrupted.
‘What’s wrong bambino?’ Mrs. Braddock asked, her unblinking gaze upon her daughter. Sofia blinked a few times to clear her mind and looked to her older brother who watched her with soft, loving eyes. Smiling a little, she turned to her mother and took a deep breath.
‘Mamma, I’m pregnant.’ Sofia blurted out quickly in fear. Quinn watched on as Aurelia’s face did an amazing impression of a cuttlefish, changing from her normal olive tone, to bright red, white, blue, red again and back to her natural skin tone, all in the span of a few seconds. Suppressing a mad urge to laugh, Quinn smiled when Aurelia’s eyes softened.
‘Really?’ Mrs. Braddock asked softly.
‘Sì Mamma. But I’m not going to keep it.’ Sofia said, raising a hand to stop the oncoming protest. Now Quinn watched on as the matriarch’s face flushed bright red and was sure he could see steam coming from the woman’s ears.
‘What?’ Aurelia gasped, as anger and sadness fought for dominance over her face. Quinn smiled to himself and waited a few seconds in the uncomfortable silence before speaking.
‘Mamma, are you alright?’ Quinn asked of his mother in law. She turned to the blond, who would have laughed at the panicked look on her face, if he didn’t value his life so much. Aurelia turned back to her daughter and spoke after a few preliminary attempts at speech.
‘Abortion?’ Mrs. Braddock whispered, as if she were swearing at a priest.
‘Well, I haven’t thought that far ahead.’ Sofia said looking down at her hands. Quinn watched Aurelia carefully and felt an intrusion on his mind and a voice whispering in the corner of his thoughts.
‘You’ve got it planned out already, don’t you?’ Alex’s voice said to him telepathically.
‘Well, what do you think?’ Quinn responded glancing to his husband for the first time since sitting at the table.
‘Can we do it? Another child?’ Alex questioned, a look of surrender shrouding his face.
‘Children.’ Quinn replied with a smile. ‘She’s carrying twins.’ Quinn laughed out loud when he saw the stupefied look on his husband’s face. Aurelia, Callum and Sofia all looked at the blond as if he had lost his mind. Giggling to himself, he raised his hands by way of apology and looked at the three people.
‘I’m sorry, I’m not laughing at you all.’ The blond began explaining. ‘Alex and I were having a private conversation and when I told him something, he looked like a dog who had his bone taken off him.’ Aurelia chuckled as she saw her son’s face and then looked back to Quinn.
‘So, care to explain what made him look like that?’ Aurelia asked of her son in law, jabbing a thumb in the direction of her son. Quinn smiled to Aurelia and began to explain.
‘I had a vision earlier, of a woman handing me two bundles of light. The woman looked remarkably like Sofia.’ He said glancing to Sofia with a smile, who returned it meekly. ‘And now, here she is, telling you that she is pregnant and doesn’t want to keep it. I have already thought about it, and if Sofia is willing, Alex and I would like to adopt the children.’ He finished, glancing from Aurelia to a rather stunned looking Sofia.
‘Children?’ Alex’s sister stammered nervously. Quinn nodded happily.
‘You're having twins.’ Quinn said with one of his trademark smiles, causing the shock and nerves of his mother and sister in law to dissipate.
‘Twins?’ Sofia and Aurelia muttered in unison.
‘Yes. And if you are agreeable, we would like to adopt them.’ Alex said smiling to his husband.
‘I… well… I…’ Sofia stammered incoherently, unable to form a sentence.
‘Think on it.’ Quinn said softly as he placed a hand on top of hers and squeezed gently.
Even with the precipitating news of the oncoming pregnancy, dinner was a wonderful engagement. Mikhail and Fabrizio had outdone themselves, plating a stunning three course meal with influences from their combined Russian and Italian heritages. Each course was eaten with appreciation and voracious appetites. Eventually the diners slowly prepared themselves for bed as Alex, Quinn, Aurelia and Sofia, in a combined effort, cleaned the kitchen and dining room. As Quinn put away the final dishes, he turned to his husband who immediately wrapped loving arms around him.
‘I love you.’ Alex whispered quietly into the blond’s ear as he snuggled him to his body.
‘And I you.’ Quinn responded lovingly. Alex kissed the blond atop his head and both men turned to Sofia and Aurelia who were sitting companionably close to one another at the kitchen island, Sofia whispering quietly to her mother. Aurelia nodded in agreement to something and the two women looked up expectantly.
‘Alex, Quinn, I’ve had a think about it, and Mamma agrees.’ The younger woman said with a half smile. Alex and Quinn, the blond still enveloped in his husband’s arms, both waited with bated breath. ‘I am going to carry them to full term, and I would be honoured for you to adopt them.’ Alex exhaled softly at the news whilst Quinn’s face exploded in his radiant smile.
‘Thank you Sofia.’ Quinn said kindly, as tears brimmed his eyes with happiness.
‘Sofia, thank you so much. Would you mind though, as they come to an age of understanding, that we explain to them the situation?’ Alex prompted his sister gently.
‘What do you mean?’ Sofia asked with mild confusion.
‘Well, you are obviously going to be their aunt, but when they come to an age where they can comprehend, I think it would be good to let them know that you are their biological mother. I think with a little guidance, and a bit of understanding, they will come to understand the situation, and perhaps be a little more developed in that regard.’ Alex explained carefully.
‘What about Kian?’ Aurelia asked, her face mirroring Quinn’s, a mask of gentle confusion.
‘He’s different. He has no biological parents. I haven’t quite come up with a plan for that, but, I have a few years yet before we need to seriously consider it.’ The Italian responded delicately.
‘Okay. That sounds alright I guess.’ Sofia advised her brother with a smile.
‘Excellent.’ The Italian said with a smile.
‘I have a scan on Thursday morning. Did you want to come?’ Sofia asked of the two men.
‘I’d love to.’ Quinn said excitedly as Aurelia and Alex both smiled at his enthusiasm. Sofia’s eyes misted over as fresh tears began to fall. Aurelia tightened her embrace around her daughter and held her as she cried.
‘I will try to come along, but I have a bit of work stuff to sort out this week. If I can find the time, I’ll be there.’ Alex said with uncertainty, unsure if he would be able to.
Alex was in the process of resigning from his counselling practice, in an effort to provide more time for his family, which by the looks was about to double in size in a few short months.
‘I’m going to have to call the project manager and make some modifications to the plans. We’re going to need another nursery and room for these two.’ Alex said nodding to his sister, whose tears had ceased falling. With a smile to the woman, he added, ‘They’ll need somewhere for their aunt to play with them.’ Sofia giggled quietly as she rested her head on her mother’s shoulder.
‘I think I should head home now.’ She said eventually, forcing herself to straighten up and stand.
‘Come by tomorrow caro.’ Aurelia said standing up with her daughter. Sofia flitted to her brother and gave him a warm hug.
‘Thank you brother.’ Sofia said softly. She released her brother and took Quinn into her arms. ‘You too il raggio di luce.’ She whispered as Quinn squeezed her tenderly.
‘See you tomorrow Sofia.’ Quinn said as he separated from the woman, who was already being led to the front door by her mother.
‘Let’s get to bed my love.’ Alex said with a husky voice as he pulled Quinn into his side, and with the ease of a weightlifter hoisted the smaller man over his shoulder, and mimicking the behaviour of a cave man, whooped and hollered up the stairs comically.
‘Alex, when you speak with the project manager, can you do a favour for me please?’ Quinn asked softly as he walked with his husband to the garage. Alex opened the internal access and stepped inside, Quinn following with Kian perched on his hip.
‘What’s up love?’ The Italian asked with marginal concern.
‘Nothing serious babe.’ The blond smiled, sensing his husband’s worry. ‘Callum and I had a small chat yesterday and I don’t think he and Nikolai will be together much longer.’
‘Really? What makes you say that?’ Alex asked raising an eyebrow.
‘Callum told me that it wasn’t a very strong relationship. My question is, is there a possibility of separate rooms for them? One in the house, and one in the guest house.’ Quinn questioned.
‘There should be, I guess. I’ll chat with Matt about it.’ Alex nodded.
‘Thank you babe.’ Quinn said, leaning over and kissing his husband softly. Kian, who had been quiet until this point, squealed with delight as he deftly grabbed a handful of Alex’s hair and yanked on it.
‘Ouch!’ Alex laughed as he tried to free his hair from Kian’s chubby little fist. ‘I’ll miss you too.’
‘Be safe today, my love. And hopefully I’ll see you at the hospital.’ Quinn said smiling to his husband.
‘I’ll try my best, I promise.’ The Italian confirmed with a nod. With a smile for his husband and son, he climbed into his Q7 and pressed the open button on his garage remote, turned the car engine over and waved as he drove out onto the driveway. Quinn stood waving with Kian squealing in delight over the roar of the engine, his arms flailing in childish farewell.
‘Come on Key, let’s get you some breakfast.’ Quinn said with a smile, as he closed the garage door and made his way into the kitchen.
‘Good morning caro, coffee on the table, Kian’s breakfast as well.’ Aurelia said happily when she spotted the blond and the child coming into the kitchen. Quinn walked over to the table and sat with his son in his lap, next to his mother in law.
‘Mamma, would you like to come with me to Sofia’s appointment? I don’t think Alex is going to make it.’ Quinn asked as he shuffled Kian around and had a bottle in his mouth, his own coffee in hand.
‘That would be quite nice caro. Yes, I would like to come.’ Aurelia said happily as she popped the last piece of her toast into her mouth.
The two sat in companionable silence while the babe noisily drunk his morning bottle, until eventually Mikhail, Fabrizio, Nikolai and Callum entered the kitchen. Within the first second Quinn could already sense tension between the younger Russian and the Brit, a tension that Aurelia picked up on a few seconds later.
‘Hello Key!’ Callum said, sitting in the free seat next to Quinn. Kian exploded with delight and spat out his bottle, arms flailing, his tiny fingers grabbing at the air in Callum’s direction. Getting the hint, Quinn lifted the child to the tall Brit who took him happily into his arms, cuddling at first but then sitting on his lap and pulling faces at. Quinn stood up and with a look of meaning to Mikhail, gestured his head to the French doors. Quinn stepped through and a few moment’s later, Mikhail came through, closing the door behind himself.
‘Something wrong pip-squeak?’ The giant asked of the smaller man.
‘Have you noticed the tension between Nikolai and Callum?’ The blond said cutting straight to the point.
‘I just put it down to new love.’ Mikhail answered with a goofy grin, but with honesty.
‘Ah. Unfortunately, I don’t think there is any love there.’ Quinn stated with mild sadness. ‘Callum was telling me yesterday that it’s not really going anywhere.’
‘Actually, looking back, Nikolai has been a bit reserved whenever I asked him about Callum.’ Mikhail said with glazed eyes, reliving the near past encounters with the smaller Russian.
‘I was thinking, after I talk with Mamma, we might move Callum into the room next to ours, and give Nikolai a room to himself?’ Quinn suggested, leveling a questioning glance on the giant.
‘I think that might be a good idea.’ Mikhail said, glancing through the window and noticing the awkward glances between Nikolai and Callum from across the table.
‘I’ll take Callum with me to the hospital and tell him then. Maybe while we’re doing that you can talk with Nikolai?’ Quinn asked.
‘Good idea little man.’ The giant said with a smile. The two men embraced warmly and returned inside, taking their seats comfortably and without anyone showing interest.
‘Nicky, would you like to come shopping with me and Fabz today?’ Mikhail asked of his younger and hugely smaller friend.
‘Da.’ The smaller one said instantly, causing a few eyebrows around the table to rise.
‘Callum, would you mind helping me with Kian when I go to the hospital with Sofia?’ Quinn asked quickly of the Brit. Callum glanced down to the bundle of excitable child in his lap and Quinn watched as the Brit’s eyes softened.
‘I’d love to.’ Callum said softly, more to the child than to anyone else.
Quinn sat watching for a few moments as a palpable tension began to develop between Callum and Nikolai. With steeled will and soft heart, Quinn had already put certain plans into place and knew what needed to be done.
‘I’m going to have a shower now. Mamma, can you watch Kian for me please?’ The blond asked as he stood up.
‘I’ll look after him.’ Callum said quickly as he stood up and wandered slowly to the French doors. ‘He’s not far off from sleeping anyway.’
Quinn whisked off to his bedroom and locking the door behind himself he sat in the middle of the room and closed his eyes.
‘Master?’ Bael asked as he materialised in front of the cross-legged blond.
‘Bael, can you and Cebz please, as fast as you can find me two of each of these things please?’ Quinn pleaded of his spirit guardian, telepathically showing him the three items he required.
‘We’ll be back soon.’ The fire spirit said with a nod as he dematerialised. Quinn sat quietly for a few moments thinking of what he needed to do and how he needed to prepare it.
‘Master?’ Bael spoke in his ethereal multi-toned voice, interrupting the blond’s train of thought.
‘Bael, firstly, I’m not your master. We’ve discussed that before. And secondly, thank you. Would you mind helping me with this next part please?’
Bael observed his master for a few quiet moments, already knowing what the blond had planned and whether he would actually be any help in the process.
‘Yes mast… Quinn.’
Next Chapter - ETA 27th September 2014
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