Primal Bonds 2 (Tales of Beastkin)

9. Adam

9

Adam

A dam watched with a mixture of amusement and anticipation as Chase’s car pulled up the driveway. The vehicle, a haphazard mix of sleek design and utter disarray, seemed a fitting metaphor for the man himself. Chase stepped out, looking as scruffy as ever. He was a mess of untucked shirt, tousled dark hair as if he’d just rolled out of bed, and a five o’clock shadow that seemed perpetual. Yet his gruff exterior was softened by the playful glint in his eyes and the mischievous smirk that rarely left his face.

Beside Adam, Shiro’s eyes lit up at the sight of Aka bounding out of the car. Aka’s vibrant red hair caught the fading sunlight, setting his delicate foxkin ears ablaze. His green eyes sparkled with mirth, and the joyous laughter that escaped his lips was infectious.

“Aka, you’re finally here!” Shiro exclaimed, his voice tinged with relief.

Aka wrapped Shiro in a tight embrace. “I was ready ages ago, but Dr. Grumpypants is slow as a snail with all his stuff. Had to help him pack; otherwise, we’d still be at his place.”

Chase ruffled Aka’s hair affectionately, his deep voice rumbling with amusement. “I need all those things for our research, you little furball. Medical equipment, experimental drugs, high-tech lab instruments—you name it. Not to mention my extensive collection of medical journals and research papers.” He rattled off the list as if it were as normal as packing a toothbrush.

The Sullivan men, ever efficient, swarmed the car as Chase popped the trunk, their arms laden with boxes and crates in no time. The sound of a large moving van’s engine grew louder as it approached, and Adam shook his head in amusement. The sight was almost comical—a parade of burly beastkin carefully transporting Chase’s myriad of belongings into the mansion.

“I see you’ve brought half your clinic with you,” Adam remarked dryly. “And not just so you can clutter up the west wing with your indispensable things again, right?”

Chase’s smirk was unrepentant. “What can I say? These indispensable things are crucial for our research. Besides, who wouldn’t want to deck out the Research Department with the latest and greatest?”

The commotion of men and machinery attracted the attention of the clan, and soon, a colorful array of characters rounded the corner from the garden—Lan, Nolan, Madison, Vanessa, and Lyria.

Lan’s eyes were alight with mirth as he spotted Aka. “Well, well, look what the cat dragged in,” he teased, his voice carrying a playful lilt. “Isn’t it a red fox?”

Aka chuckled, returning the banter with ease. “Nice to see you too, Lan. Good to know I was missed.”

The moment was interrupted by Vanessa. She made a beeline for Aka, her eyes alight with predatory delight. Aka’s fox ears twitched nervously, and he darted behind Chase, using the doctor as a human shield. “Stay back, Vanessa! And no, you can’t touch me!”

Chase chuckled, his hands coming to rest protectively on Aka’s shoulders. But Vanessa was not one to give up so easily. She cooed at Aka, reaching out with hands that promised overzealous affection. “Let me just—”

“No,” Aka cut her off, his voice firm. “Go find another beastkin boy to pet.”

Madison sighed, pulling Vanessa back with a gentle firmness. “Calm down, Ness.”

Lyria, her sharp gaze taking in the scene, turned to Chase with a curious tilt of her head. “What brings you here, Chase? And with all this… stuff?” she asked, gesturing toward the mountain of belongings. “Moving in permanently?”

Chase’s eyes gleamed with excitement. “Not permanently, but long enough to conduct some vital research. And speak of the devil…” He turned to Shiro, rubbing his hands together with an eager smile. “Ah, there’s our elusive omega.”

Lan stepped forward, a warning in his tone. “Easy there, Doc. No poking or prodding without permission.”

Chase’s eyes gleamed with unsuppressed glee as he turned to address Lan. “But oh, I already have permission to poke and prod as much as I like from your esteem leader here. And the research I’m conducting is crucial for our kind.”

Shiro stiffened slightly at Chase’s words, but he nodded resolutely. “It’s okay, Lan. I’m sure Chase isn’t going to do anything weird.”

Aka chimed in, his faith in Chase unwavering. “Yeah, he’s a doctor. He knows what he’s doing. He’s all about science and healing.”

Adam’s gaze swept over the assembled group, his voice steady as he issued his orders. “Start moving Chase’s things into the Research Division. The rest goes into the mansion.”

Aka seized his chance to evade Vanessa’s lingering hands and said, “Shiro, Lan, help me escape to my room, will you?”

Shiro, always eager to assist, nodded, and Lan, never one to miss an opportunity for mischief, wrapped an arm around Aka’s shoulders. “Let’s bolt before Vanessa ensnares you in her clutches,” Lan quipped, and the trio vanished into the mansion, leaving Vanessa staring after them with a mix of frustration and longing.

Madison turned to Chase. “Why don’t you head inside? I’ll brew some of my herbal tea for everyone,” she offered.

Chase, whose gruff exterior often concealed his appreciation for life’s gentler moments, nodded. “I could use a cup of your famous blend, Madi. Lead the way.”

In the living area, Adam took his place in a plush armchair. The room was a study in opulence and warmth, with rich mahogany bookshelves lining the walls, a grand piano resting in a corner, and a large fireplace that crackled with life. Luxurious, yet inviting, the space welcomed all who entered.

Chase claimed a spot on the sofa, sprawling with a casualness that contrasted sharply with Vanessa’s composed elegance as she crossed her legs beside him. Lyria, the enigmatic presence she always was, settled into the armchair opposite Adam.

Vanessa, her curiosity piqued by Chase’s mention of crucial research, pressed for details. “So, Chase, what’s this top-secret research you’re so excited about?”

Before Chase could respond, Nolan chimed in with a sly grin. “I’m afraid that’s on a need-to-know basis, and you don’t need to know.”

Vanessa snorted, her patience wearing thin. “We’re all top executives in the Sullivan Clan. We have a right to know.” It was true; her nosiness was legendary, but so was her commitment to the clan’s affairs.

Chase looked to Adam for approval, and at his nod, Chase began to explain. “We’re exploring the possibility of a new subtype within our kind. You’re aware of alphas and betas, of course,” he said, his voice taking on the timbre of a professor about to unveil a groundbreaking theory.

Vanessa and Lyria both nodded, their expressions a mix of interest and skepticism.

“We’ve recently stumbled upon evidence suggesting the existence of omegas.”

Lyria’s frown deepened. “Omegas? But those are just myths, aren’t they?”

Nolan shook his head, his voice steady as he addressed the group. “Not just myths. Ancient texts speak of omegas in detail. In fact, we’ve just obtained a book that mentions them.”

Vanessa’s eyes widened, and she added, “The book I secured for us at the auction.”

Nolan nodded, his gaze thoughtful. “Cedric and I have started translating it. It’s in Latin, so it will take some time.”

Lyria turned her gaze back to Chase. “You referred to Shiro as an omega earlier. Are you suggesting that he’s…?”

“That’s correct,” Chase confirmed, his eyes gleaming with the thrill of newfound knowledge. “Shiro is an omega.”

A thoughtful expression crossed Lyria’s face as she processed this information. “That would explain why he smells different.”

Adam’s interest was piqued. “Different how? What do you smell?”

Lyria considered for a moment before responding. “It’s hard to describe. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever encountered. But Shiro also carries the same sort of scent as Lan, Aka, and Madi.”

Nolan said, “I suspect Lan, Aka, and Madi may also be omegas.”

Vanessa gasped. “Madi? My Madi is an omega?”

“It seems likely,” Nolan confirmed, his tone matter-of-fact despite the bombshell he’d just dropped.

Chase leaned forward, intrigued by Lyria’s olfactory insights. “Lyria, why does Shiro smell both similar to and yet distinct from Lan, Aka, and Madi?”

Lyria tilted her head to one side, considering the question carefully. “He has this unique scent, sweet and fragrant. But he also carries their scents, as if they’ve intermingled. It’s quite… fascinating.” She turned to Adam, her gaze sharpening. “You, Master Adam, there’s something different about you as well, your essence.”

Adam’s gaze locked with Lyria’s, his voice low and steady. “What is this new essence you detect in me?”

Lyria hesitated, her brow furrowing in concentration. “It’s unlike anything I’ve encountered before, too. It’s subtle, but it’s definitely there, growing stronger with each passing moment.”

Her words hung in the air, a subtle challenge to Adam’s understanding of the beastkin world. The thought of a new essence within him was intriguing, and he could see from Chase’s and Nolan’s reactions that they were equally curious.

Before they could delve deeper into this mystery, Madison entered with a cart laden with a teapot, cups, and an assortment of snacks. The aroma of her herbal tea filled the room, a comforting scent that brought a sense of calm to the intense discussion.

As they each took a cup from Madison, a booming voice echoed from the doorway. “Ah, nothing beats the scent of Madi’s brew after a grueling training session!”

Adam turned to see Magnus filling the doorway. The bullkin alpha was a sight to behold—dark hair tousled, horns swept back majestically from his forehead, broad, muscular form clad in a sweat-drenched shirt that strained against his biceps and a pair of workout shorts that showed his powerful legs. Despite his intimidating appearance, a broad grin split his face, revealing the carefree spirit that lay beneath his formidable exterior.

Magnus stepped into the room, his presence dominating the space. He clapped a large hand on Madison’s shoulder, squeezing affectionately. “I’ve been dreaming of your tea, Madi,” he said, accepting the cup with a nod of appreciation. He took a seat on the sofa, the furniture creaking slightly under his weight.

Vanessa turned to Magnus with a playful smirk. “How goes the seclusion training, Magnus? Any breakthroughs?”

Magnus grunted, his massive shoulders slumping slightly. “A week locked in that hellhole of a training dungeon, and I’ve got nothing to show for it. I think I’ve had enough.”

Vanessa’s laughter tinkled through the room, a stark contrast to Magnus’ deep rumble. “Perhaps you’re simply not training hard enough,” she teased.

Magnus shot her a mock glare before turning his attention to Chase. “And what brings you to our humble abode, Chase? I can’t recall the last time you casually visited. You’re not exactly the social butterfly type, and Adam usually has to drag you out of your clinic for any social events.”

Chase chuckled. “You’re right, Magnus. I’m not one for social calls. But I’m here on business, so to speak. Temporary research, to be precise.”

Magnus raised a brow, his interest piqued. “Research? Here at the Sullivan property? Why not conduct it at your own clinic?”

Chase glanced at Adam before responding, “Because the subjects of my research are here.”

Magnus’ gaze swept over the assembled group, curiosity lighting up his dark eyes. “And who might these subjects be?”

Chase gestured toward Adam, a smirk playing on his lips. “Him.”

Magnus looked blank for a moment before bursting out into laughter. “Him? Adam, the subject of research? Now I’ve heard everything.” He shook his head, still chuckling. “What sort of research requires the leader of our clan as a guinea pig?”

Before Chase could respond, Nolan interjected, “It’s because Adam is an alpha who has obtained himself an omega.”

Magnus’ expression shifted from amusement to incredulity. “An omega? You must be joking, Nolan. They’re nothing more than a myth, a bedtime story for beastkin pups.”

Nolan opened his mouth to offer yet another explanation, but his words were drowned out by a sudden commotion at the door. Lan stumbled into the room, clutching his stomach dramatically. “I’m starving! Somebody feed me, please!”

Shiro and Aka followed in Lan’s melodramatic wake, their chuckles filling the room. Shiro said, “Lan, we just had some tea and snacks in the garden. How can you possibly be hungry again?”

Aka said, “He’s always hungry.”

Lan flopped onto the nearest sofa, his expression one of exaggerated suffering. “I can’t help it. I’m a growing boy. My stomach is a bottomless pit!”

Madison shook her head with a fond smile. “There are some snacks on the cart over there, Lan. Help yourself.”

Lan’s eyes lit up, and he practically scrambled over to the cart and began piling snacks onto a plate.

Nolan sauntered over, a smirk tugging at his lips. “Easy there, tiger. If you eat too much now, you won’t have any room left for dinner,” he chided, his tone playful yet edged with the faintest hint of a challenge.

Lan waved off Nolan’s concern with a flippant, “Please, you underestimate the vast expanse of my stomach. There’s plenty of room in here for both snacks and dinner.” He thumped his chest for emphasis.

Adam watched the exchange with a slight smile, his arm draped over the back of the armchair. Shiro, who had been quietly observing the lively banter, moved to stand beside him. With a gentle tug, Adam pulled Shiro onto his lap, settling him against his chest. Shiro’s cheeks flushed a delightful shade of pink at the intimate gesture, and Adam felt a warm sense of satisfaction at the public display of their bond.

Vanessa let out a coo of delight, her eyes twinkling with mirth. “Oh, how adorable! Look at Shiro blushing. He’s so cute!” She reached over to slap playfully at Magnus’ arm to get his attention.

Magnus, for his part, seemed to have been struck dumb. His dark eyes were fixed on Shiro with an intensity that Adam recognized all too well. It was the same way a collector might look upon a rare and precious artifact they were desperate to add to their collection.

“Who the fuck is that delicate thing?” Magnus finally managed to ask, his voice a low rumble.

Vanessa giggled. “That’s Shiro, Magnus. He’s Master Adam’s special boy.”

Magnus’ gaze flickered back to Adam, his brow furrowed in confusion. “Is that why you went on that sabbatical leave? To bring home this… exquisite…?”

Adam chuckled, shaking his head slightly. “Not exactly, Magnus. I was actually out handling some business when I met Shiro.”

Nolan snorted, a smirk playing on his lips. “Actually, Magnus, the truth is even more interesting. Shiro here is an omega.”

Magnus’ eyes widened in surprise, then narrowed in disbelief. “You can’t be serious.”

“I’m dead serious,” Nolan said.

T he dining room in the Sullivan Mansion hummed with the kind of vitality that Adam had come to associate with family dinners. Voices overlapped in a din of laughter and conversation, punctuated by the occasional clink of silverware against fine china. The table groaned under the weight of sumptuous dishes: roast beef glistening with a savory gravy, succulent roast chicken glazed with honey and thyme, a medley of roasted vegetables, fluffy basmati rice infused with saffron, and a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.

Nolan rose and fetched another bottle of wine from the sideboard. He uncorked it with a practiced twist and poured a generous amount into his own glass. Next to him, Vanessa presented her empty glass with a playful pout, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Don’t be stingy now, Nolan.”

“Now, now, Vanessa,” Nolan said. “We can’t have a repeat of last night, can we? You had quite enough to drink, and poor Madi had to put up with your antics.”

Vanessa huffed, her lips forming a perfect O of indignation. “I’m a grown woman, Nolan. I can handle my liquor just fine, thank you very much.”

Lan, unable to resist the opportunity for a jab, chimed in with a smirk, “I think the term you’re looking for is ‘alcoholic,’ Nessa.”

Vanessa shot Lan a withering glare, her retort sharp and immediate. “I am not—!” But her sentence was cut short as Magnus’ booming voice filled the room.

“Enough of this! Nolan, I’ve been waiting for more than two hours to hear more about this omega business. Is Adam’s precious boy… Shiro… truly an omega, or is this some sort of twisted joke?”

Nolan chuckled, exchanging a glance with Chase. “Magnus, I assure you, it’s no joke. Shiro here is indeed an omega. We’re conducting research to better understand his biology.”

Chase nodded in agreement, adding, “Blood tests, DNA tests—we’re leaving no stone unturned. All that fun, interesting stuff.”

Lan pulled a face, his distaste for needles evident. “Getting stabbed with a needle is the least fun thing in the whole world,” he said with a shudder.

Chase turned his attention to Lyria, her keen senses renowned among the clan and potentially invaluable to their research. “Lyria, with your acute sense of smell, we could use your expertise. Perhaps you can detect nuances that we might miss.”

Lyria considered this for a moment. “The scent emanating from Shiro is indeed unique. I’d be intrigued to put a name to it. Count me in.”

As the conversation swirled around him, Adam’s attention shifted to Shiro, who seemed increasingly out of sorts. His cheeks were flushed and his eyes held a glazed, unfocused quality. The sweet, intoxicating fragrance he always carried was now overwhelming, so potent that Adam could scarcely concentrate on anything else. He recognized this change in Shiro—it was the same feverish aura that had enveloped Shiro the night he had first confessed his love for Adam.

Adam reached out, gently stroking Shiro’s silky hair. “Are you alright?” he asked, concern lacing his voice.

Shiro turned to look at him, his expression dazed. “I’m fine… I think,” he murmured, though his words failed to reassure Adam.

Chase, ever observant, leaned forward, his brow furrowed with concern. “You look feverish, Shiro. Would you like me to examine you?”

Shiro waved off the offer, a forced smile on his lips. “Really, I’m okay, Chase. Just a little tired, that’s all.”

As the conversation around them continued, Shiro leaned in close to Adam and tugged his sleeve, his voice barely above a whisper. “I want to leave. I’m feeling rather off.”

Without a moment’s hesitation, Adam stood, his alpha instincts flaring to life. “Excuse us, everyone. Shiro and I will be retiring for the night.” His hand found the small of Shiro’s back, guiding him with a firm touch. He could feel the tremors coursing through Shiro’s body, the telltale sign of an oncoming fever. Concern knotted in his chest, a tight coil that urged him to move swiftly.

“Take care of yourself, Shiro!” Lan’s voice trailed after them, laced with worry. Aka’s echoed sentiment underscored the gravity of the moment.

On the sixth floor, the elevator dinged softly, its doors opening to a quiet, dimly lit hallway. Shiro, with a weary shuffle, moved toward his own bedroom, but Adam reached out, his hand gently resting on the boy’s shoulder, halting his progress.

“You’ll sleep in my bed tonight,” Adam said, his voice low but firm.

Shiro’s eyes met his, a mix of hesitation and vulnerability swirling within their depths. “Adam, I don’t want to be a burden, especially when I’m not feeling well.”

Adam’s heart tightened at the thought. “Shiro, it’s not a burden. It’s my duty—and my desire—to take care of you.” His words left no room for argument, and after a moment’s pause, Shiro nodded, a small, grateful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.

In the sanctuary of Adam’s bedroom, Shiro disappeared into the en suite bathroom for a quick shower. Adam stood motionless for a moment, then shook off the paralysis. Instead of heading to Shiro’s closet for pajamas, he selected one of his own shirts. It would swallow Shiro’s slender frame, but the thought of Shiro wrapped in his clothing brought an unexpected warmth to Adam’s chest.

When Adam returned to the bathroom, his heart kicked against his ribs at the sight of Shiro slumped against the wall, the steam from the shower making his skin glisten with a feverish sheen. In two long strides, Adam was at Shiro’s side, his arms scooping up the boy with ease.

“I’m sorry,” Shiro whispered, his voice a mere thread of sound. “I don’t know why I’m so weak all of a sudden. It’s like all my energy has been drained for no reason.”

Adam brushed a kiss on Shiro’s damp forehead. “You’re just exhausted,” he soothed, though he knew his own actions might have contributed to Shiro’s state. Their lovemaking, coupled with the stress of moving and Shiro’s relentless search for Kuro, had taken their toll.

After helping Shiro dry off and slip into the oversized pajama shirt, Adam guided him to bed. He couldn’t shake the nagging concern that clawed at his insides. Without wasting another second, he reached for his phone and dialed Chase’s number.

Within moments, the sound of hurried footsteps announced Chase’s arrival, with Aka and Lan trailing behind, their faces etched with worry. Chase wasted no time in examining Shiro.

“All good,” he finally announced. “Just exhausted. I want you to rest for the next week, Shiro. No strenuous activity, and that includes our research.”

Shiro’s lips parted, an apology hovering on the brink, but Chase cut him off. “Your health is more important.”

Aka and Lan nodded fervently, their earlier banter forgotten in the face of Shiro’s well-being.

Once the trio exited the bedroom, Adam turned to Shiro, who lay curled on the bed, a delicate frown creasing his brow. “You heard the man,” Adam said. “Rest, and that’s an order.”

Shiro opened his mouth, no doubt to protest, but Adam’s raised eyebrow silenced him. Instead, Shiro swallowed the medicine Chase had left before sliding back into bed.

Leaving Shiro’s side momentarily, Adam slipped into the bathroom for a quick shower. The water cascaded over him, but his thoughts remained with the boy in his bed, the hot streams doing little to wash away the weight of concern that had settled over him.

Emerging from the bathroom, clad only in silk pajama pants that hung low on his hips, Adam found Shiro’s condition unchanged. If anything, the boy seemed more feverish, his skin a canvas of flushed pink.

Adam slipped into bed next to Shiro and pulled him into his arms. The boy’s body was like a furnace against his own, the fever burning bright within him. Shiro’s sweet fragrance enveloped Adam—a heady, intoxicating aroma that stirred something primal within him. He felt his alpha instincts rise to the surface, his body responding to the call with a deep, insistent pull. Adam clenched his jaw, forcing down the primal demands, his resolve as firm as steel.

Shiro’s well-being was paramount; his own desires would have to wait. He had to be the protector, the caretaker, not the aggressor. It was a test of his resolve, one he had no choice but to pass. With a silent oath, Adam closed his eyes, his arms a fortress around Shiro. The night stretched ahead, a battlefield of temptation and duty.