Mated to Her Alpha Instructor (Eileen and Regis) novel Chapter 37

Chapter 37

Regis

“Morning sickness, fatigue, Eileen said quietly, her voice steadier now. “The healer I consulted said those were normal, but that I’d need to be careful about nutrition and rest.

“That’s why living in a crowded dormitory with inadequate ventilation and competing scents was not suitable, especially now,” I said, unable to keep the edge from my voice.

Kieran’s gaze shifted to me, one brow lifting in subtle acknowledgment before he looked back at Eileen. “You do need better housing,” he said, voice firm but warm. “I’m on board. Whatever you need–schedule adjustments, message relays–just say the word.”

Eileen opened her mouth, then hesitated. A faint blush rose to her cheeks as she looked down, fingers tightening on her skirt. “That… means a lot,” she said softly.

Kieran rose smoothly, setting down his cup. “I should let you two discuss the practical arrangements without me hovering.” He offered Eileen a warm smile. “But truly–welcome. You’ve got people looking out for you now. You’re not in this alone.”

The words seemed to land with unexpected weight. Eileen’s eyes glistened briefly before she blinked and nodded. “Thank you, Instructor Blackwood.”

“Just Kieran, please.” He moved toward the door, pausing to catch my eye with a look that conveyed approval and support. Then he was gone, closing the door quietly behind him.

The office felt suddenly more intimate with just the two of us remaining. Eileen sat very still, staring into her tea, and I could sense the weight of everything settling over her again now that the distraction of Kieran’s presence had lifted.

I moved around the desk but stopped several feet away, giving her space. I kept my voice low. “I know this is moving quickly. But I meant what I said in my message. The dormitory isn’t suitable for you right now.”

“I know it’s fast. But the room is ready, the house is prepared. You wouldn’t have to do anything except bring your belongings. I paused, reading the anxiety in her expression. “What concerns you most about it?”

‘I don’t…” She set down her cup, hands returning to twist together. “I don’t have very much to bring. Just some clothes, my books, herbs and personal items.

Maybe a backpack and one small trunk. It won’t take long to pack, it’s just-

The words hit me like a physical blow. A backpack and a trunk. Everything she owned, everything that mattered to her in the world, could fit in so little space. I thought of my own well–appointed rooms, the comfortable furniture that had always just been there, the shelves I’d never bothered to fill.

Before I could think better of it, I crossed the remaining distance and knelt beside her chair, bringing us to eye level. She startled slightly, her breath catching, but I moved slowly, giving her time to pull away if she wanted.