The Lycan King's Outcast Omega (by Cara Anderson) novel Chapter 176

Alaric

I haven't left Sage’s side in the thirty-six hours since Cassius's violation triggered her crisis. The doctors' insistence that he stay close by has left a gnawing rage brewing under my skin, like an itch I can’t find a way to scratch.

I watch my beautiful, perfect mate as she sleeps, relieved to find her peaceful despite the trauma she’s suffered. My hand rests protectively over hers where it cradles our child, the subtle movements beneath her skin confirming our baby's resilience despite the circumstances threatening them both.

A raised voice from the connected chamber draws my attention – not loud enough to disturb Sage's much-needed rest, but carrying clear tension that suggests an opportunity I can’t ignore. I position myself near the connecting door left partially open, shamelessly eavesdropping.

"—completely unacceptable," Daphne's cultured voice carries unmistakable fury beneath her controlled volume. "You assured me this arrangement was temporary and wouldn't affect our relationship."

"It is temporary," Cassius responds, his usual detachment cracking slightly under pressure. "An unexpected complication that requires minor adjustments to our timeline."

"Minor?" Daphne's incredulity could almost be amusing in different circumstances. "You're bonded to another female against all our plans, and now you tell me you can't touch me until the bond 'stabilizes'? For how long, exactly?"

Their argument is music to my ears. Any discord between them could end up being the distraction I need to make a move when the time is right. With practiced control, I extend Phantom’s heightened senses toward their conversation while maintaining my vigilant watch over Sage's sleeping form.

"The doctors estimate four to six weeks for complete stabilization of the bond," Cassius admits, frustration evident in his usually measured tone. "But I won’t risk the child again until it’s safely delivered. I told you sacrifices might be necessary. Everything depends on that unborn child."

"Six weeks? Or six months? Which is it, Cassius?" Daphne's control slips further, something fragile shattering against a wall punctuates her response. "And exactly when were you planning to inform me that your scientific brilliance required such significant 'adjustments'?"

"The complication was unforeseen," Cassius's defense carries uncharacteristic uncertainty. "The medical literature suggested…"

"The child's abilities require an appropriate monitoring environment," Cassius defends, his characteristic detachment returning as the conversation shifts again. "The prophecy texts specifically indicate the manifestation of powers begins in utero, then accelerates immediately following birth. We have to be careful until we know exactly what we’re dealing with and how to control it to our advantage."

I barely contain the roar threatening to escape at the cold, uncaring intentions he has for my child. My heir, who should only ever know the unconditional love of its parents. Not the heartless demands of a psychopath.

"And the mother?" Daphne's question carries knowing edge, as if confirming a suspicion she’s already formed. Perhaps Cassius underestimates her. "Your notes weren't entirely clear about her role following delivery."

Silence stretches uncomfortably before Cassius responds, selecting his words with careful deliberation. "Her continued contribution offers potential opportunities that would be irresponsible to discard prematurely."

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to read between the lines. Surely Daphne is smart enough to inderstand his meaning. Not just separating a child from its true mother, but keeping Sage for breeding stock for additional subjects once the first child proves a concept worth pursuing.