The One Who Came (ON HOLD)

Chapter 26

Finally, it's here! Enjoy!

The couple walked inside their mansion, the atmosphere a little gloomy. Ivan noticed Karter was tiredly dragging his feet on the floor and his shoulders were slumped in disheartening. As they were walking up the stairs, the Alpha made a plan for their evening to cheer up his mate. Immediately, Ivan picked up Karter, placing one of his arms under his legs while the other supported his upper body. 

A squeak left Karter's mouth due to surprise and he looked at Ivan with a questioning expression. The older male simply smiled at him and climbed up the stairs to get to their room. Karter started fidgeting in his hold but didn't say anything. He had so much on his mind but his thoughts came to a halt because of the contact with his mate. He pressed his face on Ivan's chest and closed his eyes to enjoy the calmness that suddenly surrounded him. His hands stopped shaking and the headache he was feeling became so much better. 

Ivan opened their door and headed straight to their bathroom. He did a quick job of taking Karter's clothes off after he drew a warm bath for him. During the whole process, Karter didn't utter a word and followed the lead of the Alpha. He watched with endearment when Ivan lit up a few candles and winked at him when the Omega gave him a look. 

Ivan stepped behind him and placed his huge hands on Karter's waist. He kissed under his ear and pushed him forward slightly. He held his hand as Karter stepped inside of the tub containing warm water. He sighed after sitting down, getting completely engulfed by the warmth. He rested his head and let go of the tightness in his muscles. With his closed eyes, he felt Ivan leave a lingering kiss on his forehead. 

Karter opened his eyes when he didn't see Ivan join him in the tub. He saw him collecting his clothes in his arms and felt confused by his action. 

"You are not joining?" Karter finally spoke. 

"No, I'm gonna make your food." Ivan answered with an easy smile on his face. Karter's face fell but he didn't comment how much he wanted Ivan with him. "Enjoy." Ivan said and left the room. 

Karter sighed and decided to ignore the nagging feeling in his heart. The Omega made up his find to enjoy his bath and then eat delicious food made by his mate. It might be good for him, he thought. 

'Karter?' Percy hesitantly asked. 

'Don't.' Karter flatly answered. He didn't want to engage in any kind of interaction with his wolf right now. 

'Okay.' Percy whimpered and faded away. 

He knew that it was very rare for Karter to behave this way with anyone and this was not the time to mess with him. Percy knew he was in the wrong in this situation but he desperately wanted to make it right with Karter. He beat himself up for being a coward and being afraid of moving forward with their job. The wolf felt horrible because of what he did, or couldn't do, before. He knew Karter believes that he betrayed him and just thinking about it brews a sinking feeling in his gut. 

No one understands how difficult it is for him to survive with that formidable presence surrounding him. The power that sometimes leaks, tries to free itself is nothing but terrifying. Percy feels that the presence will consume him and take over his consciousness. That way he'll die but most importantly, he won't be able to be with Karter and his mate. That thought frightens him so much that he'll do anything to prevent Obelius to take control. Logic is out of the window when it comes to Karter and his mate. 

Karter was unaware of his reasons and unconsciously blocked out Percy's feelings. That act of disloyalty harmed Karter tremendously, the boy needed time to heal. He was determined to do a good job for Ivan, for the doctors who were working hard for him, and the rest of the pack who believed in him. The Omega sat back, tried to relax, and spend quality time with his mate on their free day.